Mediterranean Cucumber Tomato Feta Salad

Name: Mediterranean Cucumber Tomato Feta Salad
Prep time: 15 min
Total time: 15 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 2 cups cucumbers, diced; 2 cups cherry tomatoes, halved; 1 cup feta cheese, crumbled; 1/4 cup red onion, thinly sliced; 1/4 cup olives, pitted and sliced (optional); 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped; 1 tablespoon fresh mint, chopped; 3 tablespoons olive oil; 2 tablespoons red wine vinegar; Salt and pepper to taste

Highlighted under: World Recipe Collection

I absolutely love making this Mediterranean Cucumber Tomato Feta Salad during the warmer months. Fresh, vibrant, and bursting with flavor, it’s the perfect side dish for barbecues or a light lunch on its own. The combination of refreshing cucumbers, sweet tomatoes, and salty feta cheese creates a delightful balance that I can’t resist. I also enjoy adding fresh herbs like parsley and basil for an extra layer of flavor that elevates this simple salad.

Created by

Holly James

Last updated on 2026-01-24T08:49:06.899Z

When I first created this salad, I wanted something that captures the essence of Mediterranean summer gatherings. The crunchy cucumbers paired beautifully with juicy tomatoes and crumbly feta, making each bite refreshing and satisfying. I recommend using ripe tomatoes for the best flavor, and don't forget to drizzle with high-quality olive oil for that authentic taste.

As I experimented with different herb combinations, I found that fresh parsley and mint elevate the dish remarkably. The vibrant colors and textures of the salad not only please the palate but also add a stunning visual appeal to the table. Trust me, this salad will be a hit at any gathering!

        Why You'll Love This Salad
        Bright, refreshing flavors that scream summer
Quick and easy to assemble, perfect for busy days
Packed with healthy ingredients that nourish the body

      

The Importance of Fresh Ingredients

For this Mediterranean Cucumber Tomato Feta Salad, using fresh, high-quality ingredients is key to achieving that vibrant flavor. I recommend visiting a local farmer's market to find the ripest cherry tomatoes and tender cucumbers. Fresh ingredients not only enhance taste but also the overall nutritional value of your dish. By selecting organic options, you're supporting sustainable practices and often discovering flavors that can make a significant difference in a simple salad.

When it comes to feta cheese, opt for a block rather than pre-crumbled varieties. Fresh feta has a creamier texture and a stronger flavor profile, elevating the overall taste of the salad. If you're looking for a healthier or dairy-free alternative, you could try crumbled tofu with nutritional yeast or a vegan feta cheese, but be aware that the flavor will differ slightly.

Preparation Tips for Perfect Texture

To ensure your vegetables maintain their crisp texture, it’s crucial to dry them thoroughly after washing. Excess moisture can cause your salad to become soggy, so consider using a salad spinner or patting them down with a clean kitchen towel. When dicing cucumbers, try to select smaller varieties, as they typically have fewer seeds and a crunchier bite, which enhances the overall experience of the salad.

For the red onion, consider soaking the sliced rings in cold water for about 10 minutes prior to adding them to the salad. This can mellow their sharpness, making the onion flavor more subtle and perfectly balanced with the other ingredients.

Serving Suggestions and Variations

This salad is incredibly versatile and can be served on its own or as a refreshing side for grilled meats, seafood, or even falafel. For a heartier meal, consider adding quinoa or chickpeas to the mix. This not only boosts the protein content but also adds a lovely texture that complements the fresh ingredients beautifully.

If you want to change up the flavors, consider incorporating seasonal vegetables like bell peppers or radishes. You can also use different herbs; dill or oregano can provide a unique twist. For a spicier kick, try adding a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce, adjusting to your preferences.

Ingredients

To prepare this delicious salad, gather the following ingredients:

Ingredients

2 cups cucumbers, diced
2 cups cherry tomatoes, halved
1 cup feta cheese, crumbled
1/4 cup red onion, thinly sliced
1/4 cup olives, pitted and sliced (optional)
2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
1 tablespoon fresh mint, chopped
3 tablespoons olive oil
2 tablespoons red wine vinegar
Salt and pepper to taste

Mix all the ingredients in a bowl for a refreshing salad!

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to make your Mediterranean Cucumber Tomato Feta Salad:

Prep the Vegetables

Start by washing all the vegetables thoroughly. Dice the cucumbers and halve the cherry tomatoes. Thinly slice the red onion and olives, if using.

Mix the Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, combine the diced cucumbers, cherry tomatoes, crumbled feta cheese, sliced red onion, and olives. Toss gently to combine.

Add Herbs and Dressing

Sprinkle the chopped parsley and mint over the salad. Drizzle with olive oil and red wine vinegar, then season with salt and pepper to taste.

Serve

Toss everything together to make sure the ingredients are well coated with the dressing. Serve immediately or let it chill in the fridge for 10 minutes before serving.

Enjoy your delicious salad as a side or a light main dish!

Pro Tips

For an extra flavor boost, consider adding some diced bell peppers or a squeeze of lemon juice before serving.

Make-Ahead and Storage

This Mediterranean Salad can be prepared a day in advance, making it perfect for meal prep. Just be sure to store the salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator to keep it fresh. The flavors will meld beautifully overnight, giving you an even more flavorful dish to enjoy the next day.

If you're worried about the salad getting soggy, keep the dressing separate until you're ready to serve. This simple step will maintain the crispness of the vegetables while still allowing you to enjoy the full flavors of the dressing.

Scaling the Recipe

This salad recipe can easily be scaled up or down depending on your needs. If you’re hosting a gathering, simply double or triple the quantity of ingredients to accommodate more guests. Just make sure to use a larger mixing bowl to ensure everything gets tossed evenly.

Conversely, if you’re cooking for one or two, you can prepare a smaller batch by halving the ingredient quantities. The salad keeps well for a couple of days in the fridge, but for optimal freshness, it’s best enjoyed within the first two days after preparation.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make this salad ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare it a few hours in advance. Just keep the dressing separate until you're ready to serve to maintain the freshness.

→ What other ingredients can I add?

Feel free to add other vegetables like bell peppers, radishes, or even chickpeas for added protein.

→ Is this salad suitable for meal prep?

Absolutely! Just store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days.

→ Can I use a different cheese?

Yes, you can substitute feta with goat cheese or even mozzarella for different flavor profiles.