When the weather heats up and I’m looking for something light, fresh, and full of flavor, I always turn to my favorite Mediterranean Cucumber Salad. It’s one of those dishes that’s quick to whip up but never fails to impress. Whether you’re planning a summer lunch or just need a refreshing side dish for a family dinner, this salad has you covered. With its combination of crisp cucumbers, juicy tomatoes, and tangy feta cheese, it’s a recipe that hits all the right notes.

A Personal Story: My Love Affair with Mediterranean Flavors

I remember the first time I made a Mediterranean cucumber salad. It was a scorching hot summer day, and I was in desperate need of something cool and satisfying. I had just returned from the farmer’s market with a bag full of fresh ingredients—english cucumbers, cherry tomatoes, red onion, and fresh herbs. I decided to throw them together with some extra virgin olive oil, a splash of red wine vinegar, and a sprinkle of black pepper. The result? Pure bliss in a bowl. Since that day, this easy Mediterranean cucumber salad has become a staple in my kitchen.

Why You’ll Love This Salad

This salad is the epitome of simplicity and flavor. The Mediterranean cucumber salad recipe is packed with healthy ingredients that not only taste amazing but are also good for you. The fresh flavors of the cucumbers, tomatoes, and herbs combined with the zesty dressing make this dish a go-to for anyone following a Mediterranean diet or simply looking for a fresh side dish. Plus, it’s incredibly versatile. You can serve it as a side salad, enjoy it on its own for a light meal, or even use it as a topping for cucumber sandwiches.

Ingredients for Mediterranean Cucumber Salad

To make this delicious Mediterranean cucumber salad, you’ll need the following ingredients:

• 2 english cucumbers or hot house cucumbers, thinly sliced
• 1 red onion, thinly sliced
• 1 cup cherry tomatoes or grape tomatoes, halved
• 1/2 cup black olives or briny kalamata olives, pitted and halved
• 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
• 1/4 cup fresh mint, chopped
• 1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil
• 2 tablespoons red wine vinegar or apple cider vinegar
• Juice of 1 lime or fresh lemon juice
• 1/2 cup tangy feta cheese (optional for a vegan salad, use vegan feta)
• Salt and black pepper to taste

Equipment You’ll Need

• Large mixing bowl
• Small bowl for the dressing
• Sharp knife
• Cutting board
• Whisk

How to Make Mediterranean Cucumber Salad

Step 1: Prepare the Vegetables

Start by preparing your vegetables. Slice the english cucumbers into thin rounds, chop the cherry tomatoes or grape tomatoes, and thinly slice the red onion. For this recipe, I love using mini cucumbers or Persian cucumbers because they have thin skins and a great crunch. If you’re using regular cucumbers or hot house cucumbers, you might want to peel them first.

Step 2: Make the Dressing

In a small bowl, whisk together the extra virgin olive oil, red wine vinegar, and lime juice. Add a pinch of black pepper and salt to taste. This dressing is what gives the salad its zesty flavor and ties all the ingredients together.

Step 3: Combine the Ingredients

In a large bowl, combine the sliced cucumbers, tomatoes, red onion, and black olives. Pour the dressing over the salad and toss everything together. The key here is to make sure all the fresh veggies are evenly coated with the dressing.

Step 4: Add the Fresh Herbs and Feta

Finally, sprinkle the chopped fresh parsley and fresh mint over the salad. You can also use fresh basil. If you’re adding tangy feta cheese, now’s the time to crumble it on top. The fresh herbs add a burst of fresh flavors that elevate this simple salad to the next level.

Step 5: Serve and Enjoy

Serve the salad immediately or let it sit at room temperature for about 10-15 minutes to allow the flavors to meld. This is one of those easy salad recipes that tastes even better after sitting for a couple of hours. If you’re not serving it right away, store it in an airtight container in the fridge.

Nutritional Content

Serving Size and Prep Time

•    Serving Size: 4-6 servings

•    Prep Time: 15 minutes

•    Cook Time: No cook time required!

Variations of the Mediterranean Cucumber Salad

One of the things I love about this Mediterranean cucumber salad is how adaptable it is. Here are a few variations you can try:

1. Mediterranean Cucumber Tomato Salad

If you’re a fan of tomatoes, you can increase the amount and variety of tomatoes. Use roma tomatoes, mediterranean tomato, or larger tomatoes like ripe tomatoes. This variation adds a juicy sweetness that pairs perfectly with the crunchy cucumbers.

2. Greek Salad

For a Greek twist, add bell peppers, green onions, and garbanzo beans to your salad. The addition of briny olives and zesty tomatoes makes it a hearty option that can easily be served as a main dish.

3. Cucumber Salad with Vinegar

If you prefer a tangier flavor, substitute the lime juice or fresh lemon juice with more red wine vinegar or apple cider vinegar. This gives the salad a sharp, refreshing bite, perfect for those who enjoy cucumber salad vinegar style.

Explore more salad recipes here:

Best Vegan Red Hot and Blue Potato Salad Recipe

Vegan Gluten Free Greek Food: 30 Mediterranean Recipes

Vegan recipes

Why this Mediterranean Cucumber Salad is the Perfect Dish

Whether you’re looking for a healthy side dish or a light main course, this Mediterranean cucumber salad is a great choice. It’s packed with healthy fats from the extra virgin olive oil, and fresh ingredients that make it a perfect dish for anyone looking to eat clean. The zesty dressing and flavor in every bite will keep you coming back for more. Plus, with all the Mediterranean recipes out there, this one stands out for its simplicity and ease.

Storage Tips

This salad can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. The flavors actually get better the longer it sits, making it a great option for meal prep. Just be sure to give it a good stir before serving to redistribute the dressing.

Conclusion

This Mediterranean salad recipe is one of my favorite ways to enjoy the vibrant and fresh flavors of the Mediterranean diet. It’s easy to make, incredibly versatile, and packed with nutrients. Whether you’re enjoying it on a hot summer day or serving it as part of a larger Mediterranean feast, it’s a dish that never disappoints. So, the next time you’re in the mood for something light and refreshing, give this recipe a try. I promise, this simple cucumber salad will become a staple in your home just like it is in mine.

FAQs

1. Can I make this salad ahead of time?

Yes, you can make this salad a few hours in advance. The flavors actually improve after sitting for a bit, so it’s a perfect dish to prepare ahead of time.

2. What can I use instead of feta cheese for a vegan version?

For a vegan version, you can use vegan feta or omit the cheese altogether. The salad is still delicious without it, thanks to the zesty dressing and fresh ingredients.

3. Can I add other vegetables to this salad?

Absolutely! You can add bell peppers, green onions, or even garbanzo beans to bulk up the salad. The possibilities are endless.

4. How long does this salad last in the fridge?

Stored in an airtight container, this salad will last up to 3 days in the fridge. Just be sure to stir it before serving to ensure all the flavors are well combined.

5. Can I use a different type of cucumber?

Yes, you can use regular cucumbers, european cucumbers, or even hot house cucumbers. However, if you prefer a more delicate texture, I recommend using mini cucumbers or Persian cucumbers due to their thin skins and extra crisp bite.

This Mediterranean Cucumber Salad is more than just a dish; it’s an experience. From its bright flavors to its versatility, it’s a recipe that you’ll find yourself coming back to again and again. Whether you’re enjoying it on its own, as a side salad, or experimenting with one of the variations, it’s a simple, delightful way to embrace the healthy and delicious world of Mediterranean recipes. Enjoy!

Printable Recipe Card

Mediterranean Cucumber Salad – Easy & Quick Recipe

This Mediterranean Cucumber Salad is a refreshing and healthy dish, perfect for hot summer days. It features crisp English cucumbers, juicy cherry tomatoes, and thinly sliced red onion tossed with fresh parsley, mint, and black olives. The salad is dressed in a zesty mix of extra virgin olive oil, red wine vinegar, and lime juice, offering a burst of Mediterranean flavors in every bite. Optional feta cheese adds a tangy touch. This salad is quick to prepare, versatile, and packed with fresh, wholesome ingredients, making it an ideal side or light meal.

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 15 minutes mins

Total Time 15 minutes mins

Course Lunch, Salad, Side Dish

Cuisine Mediterranean

Servings 4

Calories 150 kcal

Equipment

• Large mixing bowl
• Small bowl for the dressing
• Sharp Knife
• Cutting Board
• Whisk

Ingredients

  

1x2x3x

• 2 english cucumbers or hot house cucumbers thinly sliced
• 1 red onion thinly sliced
• 1 cup cherry tomatoes or grape tomatoes halved
• 1/2 cup black olives or briny kalamata olives pitted and halved
• 1/4 cup fresh parsley chopped
• 1/4 cup fresh mint chopped
• 1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil
• 2 tablespoons red wine vinegar or apple cider vinegar
• Juice of 1 lime or fresh lemon juice
• 1/2 cup tangy feta cheese optional for a vegan salad, use vegan feta
• Salt and black pepper to taste

Instructions

 

Step 1: Prepare the Vegetables

• Start by preparing your vegetables. Slice the english cucumbers into thin rounds, chop the cherry tomatoes or grape tomatoes, and thinly slice the red onion. For this recipe, I love using mini cucumbers or Persian cucumbers because they have thin skins and a great crunch. If you’re using regular cucumbers or hot house cucumbers, you might want to peel them first.

Step 2: Make the Dressing

• In a small bowl, whisk together the extra virgin olive oil, red wine vinegar, and lime juice. Add a pinch of black pepper and salt to taste. This dressing is what gives the salad its zesty flavor and ties all the ingredients together.

Step 3: Combine the Ingredients

• In a large bowl, combine the sliced cucumbers, tomatoes, red onion, and black olives. Pour the dressing over the salad and toss everything together. The key here is to make sure all the fresh veggies are evenly coated with the dressing.

Step 4: Add the Fresh Herbs and Feta

• Finally, sprinkle the chopped fresh parsley and fresh mint over the salad. You can also use fresh basil. If you’re adding tangy feta cheese, now’s the time to crumble it on top. The fresh herbs add a burst of fresh flavors that elevate this simple salad to the next level.

Step 5: Serve and Enjoy

• Serve the salad immediately or let it sit at room temperature for about 10-15 minutes to allow the flavors to meld. This is one of those easy salad recipes that tastes even better after sitting for a couple of hours. If you’re not serving it right away, store it in an airtight container in the fridge.

Notes

Variations of Mediterranean Cucumber Salad

One of the things I love about this Mediterranean cucumber salad is how adaptable it is. Here are a few variations you can try:

1. Mediterranean Cucumber Tomato Salad

If you’re a fan of tomatoes, you can increase the amount and variety of tomatoes. Use roma tomatoes, mediterranean tomato, or larger tomatoes like ripe tomatoes. This variation adds a juicy sweetness that pairs perfectly with the crunchy cucumbers.

2. Greek Cucumber Salad

For a Greek twist, add bell peppers, green onions, and garbanzo beans to your salad. The addition of briny olives and zesty tomatoes makes it a hearty option that can easily be served as a main dish.

3. Cucumber Salad with Vinegar

If you prefer a tangier flavor, substitute the lime juice or fresh lemon juice with more red wine vinegar or apple cider vinegar. This gives the salad a sharp, refreshing bite, perfect for those who enjoy cucumber salad vinegar style.

Nutrition

Calories: 150kcalCarbohydrates: 8gProtein: 3gFat: 12gSaturated Fat: 3gCholesterol: 10mgSodium: 300mgFiber: 2gSugar: 3g

Keyword 10-15 minutes, apple cider vinegar, black olives, black pepper, briny kalamata olives, cherry tomatoes, crisp cucumbers, crunchy cucumbers, cucumber appetizers, cucumber recipes, Cucumber salad, cucumber salad recipes, cucumber salad vinegar, cucumber sandwiches, delicious mediterranean cucumber salad, easy mediterranean cucumber salad, easy recipes, easy salad recipes, easy side dish, english cucumbers, extra virgin olive oil, feta cheese, fresh basil, fresh cucumbers, fresh flavors, fresh herbs, fresh ingredients, fresh lemon juice, fresh mint, fresh parsley, fresh salad, fresh side dish, fresh veggies, garbanzo beans, grape tomatoes, greek cucumber salad, greek salad, green onions, healthy fats, healthy ingredients, hot house cucumbers, hot summer day, juicy tomatoes, lime or fresh lemon juice, mediterranean cucumber salad recipe, mediterranean cucumber tomato salad, mediterranean diet, mediterranean dishes, mediterranean flavors, mediterranean recipes, mediterranean salad recipe, mediterranean salad recipes, mediterranean tomato, mini cucumbers, perfect dish, red bell peppers, red onions, red wine vinegar, ripe tomatoes, salad dressing, salad ideas, side salad, simple cucumber salad, simple ingredients, simple salad, summer lunches, tangy feta cheese, tomato cucumber salad, vegan feta, vegan salad, zesty dressing, zesty tomatoes

Tried this recipe?Let us know how it was!