Greek Cucumber Salad (Quick and Easy!)

The first time I tasted Greek Cucumber Salad , I was at a Mediterranean restaurant, where it was served alongside grilled meats and fragrant rice. The crisp cucumbers, juicy tomatoes, tangy feta, and zesty lemon dressing created a flavor explosion that felt both refreshing and satisfying. I knew I had to recreate it at home.

This salad is perfect for beginners because it requires minimal effort, no cooking, and delivers maximum flavor. Whether you need a light side dish for a barbecue, a quick meal addition, or a refreshing snack, this Greek cucumber salad is a must-try. It’s also incredibly versatile—serve it alongside grilled chicken, stuff it into pita bread, or enjoy it on its own.

Why This Recipe Is Special

• Quick and Easy: Ready in just 15 minutes with simple chopping and mixing.
• No Cooking Required: Ideal for warm days when you don’t want to turn on the stove.
• Healthy and Refreshing: Loaded with hydrating cucumbers, antioxidant-rich tomatoes, and protein-packed feta.
• Customizable: Swap or add ingredients based on what you have on hand.
• Perfect for Meal Prep: Can be prepped ahead and assembled just before serving.

Ingredients and Their Role

Here’s what you’ll need to make this easy Greek cucumber salad and why each ingredient matters:

• Cucumbers – The star of the dish, adding crunch and hydration. Use English cucumbers for fewer seeds or Persian cucumbers for extra crispiness.
• Tomatoes – Bring juiciness and a slight sweetness. Cherry or grape tomatoes work well for a firmer texture.
• Red Onion – Adds a sharp, slightly spicy bite that balances the salad.
• Feta Cheese – The creamy, salty element that ties everything together.
• Black Olives – Provide a briny, rich flavor. Kalamata olives are a great alternative for more authentic Mediterranean taste.

For the Greek Lemon Vinaigrette Dressing:

• Olive Oil – The base of the dressing, adding smoothness.
• Lemon Juice – Brightens the flavors with acidity.
• Garlic – Gives a pungent, savory depth.
• Dried Oregano – Adds an earthy, slightly minty aroma.
• Maple Syrup or Honey – Balances acidity with a touch of sweetness.
• Salt and Black Pepper – Essential for seasoning and enhancing all the flavors.

Ingredient Substitutions:

• Swap red onion with green onions for a milder taste.
• Use avocado for extra creaminess and healthy fats.
• Try goat cheese instead of feta for a tangy twist.
• Add bell peppers for more crunch and color.
• Substitute balsamic vinegar for lemon juice if you prefer a deeper sweetness in the dressing.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Chop the Vegetables
Slice the cucumbers into thin rounds or half-moons. Dice the tomatoes into bite-sized pieces. Thinly slice the red onion and chop the olives in halves or quarters.

Step 2: Prepare the Dressing
In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, lemon juice, minced garlic, oregano, maple syrup (or honey), salt, and black pepper until well combined.

Step 3: Assemble the Salad
In a large mixing bowl, add the chopped cucumbers, tomatoes, red onions, and olives. Drizzle the dressing over the vegetables and toss everything together to evenly coat.

Step 4: Add the Finishing Touch
Sprinkle crumbled feta cheese over the top and give it a gentle mix. Let the salad sit for a few minutes before serving to allow the flavors to meld.

Beginner Tips and Notes

• How to Prevent a Soggy Salad: Keep the dressing separate until just before serving if you’re making this salad ahead of time.
• Onion Intensity Tip: If you find raw red onion too strong, soak the slices in cold water for 10 minutes before adding them to the salad.
• Make It a Meal: Add grilled chicken, chickpeas, or quinoa to turn this into a more filling dish.
• Dressing Variations: Swap lemon juice for red wine vinegar for a more traditional Greek salad taste.

Serving Suggestions

This Greek cucumber salad pairs beautifully with various dishes:

• Grilled Meats: Serve it alongside grilled chicken, lamb, or shrimp.
• Pita and Hummus: Enjoy it with warm pita bread and a side of hummus.
• Mediterranean Rice Bowls: Top over rice or quinoa for a satisfying grain bowl.
• Light Lunch: Stuff into pita pockets with grilled chicken or falafel.

Storage Tips:

• Store the dressing separately and mix just before serving for the best freshness.
• If the salad is already dressed, keep it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 24 hours.

Try It and Share Your Thoughts!

This Greek Cucumber Salad is a fantastic addition to any meal. It’s fresh, flavorful, and takes minimal effort—perfect for beginner cooks looking to impress with a simple yet delicious dish. If you try this recipe, let me know in the comments how it turned out for you. What did you pair it with? Did you make any fun modifications? I’d love to hear your take on it.

FAQ About Greek Cucumber Salad

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