Crisp cucumbers, juicy tomatoes, and salty feta cheese come together in this Greek Cucumber Salad for one of the easiest side dishes you will ever make.A simple homemade dressing of olive oil, red wine vinegar, and lemon juice ties everything together in under 20 minutes.
2largeEnglish cucumberssliced into half moons (about 1/4 inch thick), seeds removed if large
1pintcherry or grape tomatoeshalved (about 300g)
1/2mediumred onionthinly sliced into half moons
1/2cupkalamata olivespitted (about 75g)
6ouncesblock feta cheesecubed or crumbled (about 170g)
1/4cupextra virgin olive oil60ml
2tablespoonsred wine vinegar30ml
1tablespoonfresh lemon juice15ml
1clovegarlicminced
1teaspoondried oregano
2tablespoonsfresh dill or parsleychopped
Saltto taste
Black pepperto taste
Instructions
Wash cucumbers, trim ends, slice in half lengthwise, and cut into 1/4-inch half moons. If seeds are large, scoop them out first.
Rinse tomatoes and slice each in half. Peel onion and slice very thinly into half moons. Add both to the bowl with cucumbers, along with the pitted olives.
In a small bowl or jar, combine olive oil, red wine vinegar, lemon juice, minced garlic, and oregano. Whisk or shake until combined. Season with salt and pepper.
Pour dressing over vegetables and toss gently until evenly coated. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
Add cubed feta and fresh herbs on top, then gently fold in, being careful not to break the cheese too much. Serve immediately or chill briefly.
Notes
Best cucumbers: English cucumbers have thin skin, fewer seeds, and less water. Regular cucumbers work too but peel and seed them first.
Prevent watery salad: Salt sliced cucumbers and let them sit in a colander for 15 minutes, then pat dry before adding to the salad.
Use block feta: Pre-crumbled feta is dry and chalky. A block is creamier and holds its shape better in the salad.
Add feta last: Toss gently so the cheese stays in nice chunks instead of turning mushy.
Make ahead: Chop vegetables and make dressing up to a day ahead, storing separately. Combine with feta and herbs just before serving.
Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Drain excess liquid before serving.
Variations: Add chickpeas or quinoa for more protein, or swap dressing for a creamy Greek yogurt version.
Serving: Pairs beautifully with grilled chicken, salmon, shrimp, or as part of a Mediterranean mezze spread with warm pita bread.
Do not freeze: This salad does not freeze well due to the high water content of the vegetables.
Herb swaps: Fresh mint is a great addition alongside or instead of dill for a brighter flavor.