Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This salad is a classic for a reason. It’s incredibly easy to make, requires just a handful of ingredients, and delivers a bright, tangy, and savory flavor in every bite. It’s naturally vegetarian, gluten-free, and can be whipped up in minutes—perfect for busy days, casual lunches, or elegant dinners.
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
- Cherry tomatoes or ripe tomatoes, chopped
- Cucumber, sliced or chopped
- Feta cheese, crumbled or cubed
- Red onion, thinly sliced (optional)
- Olive oil
- Lemon juice or red wine vinegar
- Dried oregano or fresh herbs like parsley or dill
- Salt
- Black pepper
Directions
- In a large bowl, combine chopped tomatoes, cucumbers, and red onion if using.
- Add the crumbled or cubed feta on top.
- Drizzle with olive oil and lemon juice or vinegar.
- Sprinkle with herbs, salt, and black pepper.
- Gently toss everything together until evenly coated.
- Serve immediately or let it sit for 10 minutes to enhance the flavors.
Servings and timing
This salad serves 4 as a side dish or 2 as a light main. Preparation time is just 10 minutes with no cooking involved, making it a fast and fresh option.
Variations
- Add olives: Kalamata or green olives add a salty punch.
- Include avocado: Chunks of avocado provide extra creaminess.
- Make it spicy: Add sliced chili or red pepper flakes for a kick.
- Add greens: Mix in arugula or baby spinach to bulk it up.
- Try different herbs: Use fresh mint or basil for a unique twist.
- Use flavored feta: Try marinated feta for an extra layer of flavor.
- Add grains: Toss in cooked quinoa or couscous to make it more filling.
Storage/Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. For best texture, enjoy within 24 hours. This salad is not suitable for freezing and doesn’t require reheating—serve cold or at room temperature.
FAQs
How long does this salad keep in the fridge?
It stays fresh for up to 2 days, though it’s best enjoyed within the first 24 hours.
Can I make this salad ahead of time?
Yes, you can prep the ingredients ahead and combine them just before serving for the freshest texture.
Is this salad gluten-free?
Yes, it’s naturally gluten-free.
Can I use bottled dressing?
While homemade dressing is preferred for freshness, a simple vinaigrette can be used in a pinch.
What kind of feta is best?
Block feta in brine offers the best flavor and texture, but crumbled feta works well too.
Can I add protein to make it a meal?
Yes, grilled chicken, chickpeas, or tuna make great additions.
Can I peel the cucumbers?
Yes, if you prefer a softer texture or want to reduce bitterness, peeling is fine.
What type of tomatoes work best?
Ripe cherry tomatoes or any sweet, juicy variety are ideal.
Is red onion necessary?
No, it’s optional. You can leave it out or replace it with green onions.
How do I keep the salad from getting watery?
Use firm tomatoes and cucumbers, and salt the cucumbers ahead of time to draw out excess moisture.
Conclusion
Feta Tomato Cucumber Salad is a crisp, tangy, and refreshing dish that comes together effortlessly. Whether you’re serving it alongside grilled meats, pairing it with bread, or enjoying it on its own, this Mediterranean-inspired salad is always a hit. Simple, healthy, and satisfying—it’s a recipe you’ll turn to again and again.
PrintFeta Tomato Cucumber Salad
A crisp and refreshing Mediterranean-inspired salad made with juicy tomatoes, crunchy cucumbers, and creamy feta cheese, tossed in olive oil, lemon juice, and herbs. Perfect as a side dish or light meal.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Total Time: 10 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4 as a side, 2 as a light main
- Category: Salad
- Method: No-cook
- Cuisine: Mediterranean
- Diet: Vegetarian
Ingredients
- 2 cups cherry tomatoes or chopped ripe tomatoes
- 1 large cucumber, sliced or chopped
- 1/2 cup feta cheese, crumbled or cubed
- 1/4 cup red onion, thinly sliced (optional)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice or red wine vinegar
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano or 1 tablespoon fresh parsley/dill
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions
- In a large bowl, combine chopped tomatoes, cucumbers, and red onion if using.
- Add the crumbled or cubed feta on top.
- Drizzle with olive oil and lemon juice or vinegar.
- Sprinkle with herbs, salt, and black pepper.
- Gently toss everything together until evenly coated.
- Serve immediately or let it sit for 10 minutes to enhance the flavors.
Notes
- Use block feta in brine for the best flavor and texture.
- Add Kalamata or green olives for a briny touch.
- Stir in avocado or grains like quinoa to make it more filling.
- Best enjoyed fresh within 24 hours for ideal texture.
- Peel cucumbers if desired to reduce bitterness or soften texture.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1/4 of recipe
- Calories: 190
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 420mg
- Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 9g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 8g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 5g
- Cholesterol: 20mg
