Refreshing Greek Cucumber Salad

Discover the ultimate **Greek Style Cucumber Salad** recipe – a burst of fresh flavors, crisp textures, and Mediterranean charm! This vibrant salad, featuring crunchy cucumbers, ripe tomatoes, tangy feta cheese, and a unique tarragon vinaigrette, comes together in just 20 minutes. Perfect as a refreshing side, a light meal, or an impressive addition to any gathering, it promises a delightful culinary experience that’s both healthy and incredibly satisfying.

As the days grow longer and the sun shines brighter, our cravings naturally shift towards lighter, more invigorating meals. The arrival of spring and summer brings a bounty of fresh vegetables, making it the perfect time to explore recipes that highlight nature’s best. Imagine a dish that is not only incredibly easy to prepare but also bursts with authentic Mediterranean flavors – that’s precisely what our **Authentic Greek Cucumber Salad** offers. This effortless recipe is designed for both the busiest weeknights and relaxed weekend cookouts, promising to captivate your taste buds with its exceptional freshness and vibrant taste.

Whether you’re currently in a Greek food phase, yearning for a refreshing and zesty dish, or simply seeking new inspiration for healthy eating, you’ve come to the right place. This Greek Cucumber Salad is a cornerstone of Mediterranean cuisine, known for its health benefits and incredible taste. If you’re looking to further explore the delightful flavors of Greece, don’t miss our Greek Cauliflower Rice Salad Bowl or my beloved Marinated Vegetables Recipe, a childhood classic perfect for entertaining guests.

Contents

Why This Greek Cucumber Salad Will Be Your New Favorite

This isn’t just another salad; it’s a celebration of simplicity and flavor. Here’s why you’ll fall in love with this vibrant Greek side dish:

Explosion of Fresh Flavors: Crafted primarily from raw, garden-fresh vegetables, this salad is packed with natural goodness. The combination of crisp cucumbers and sweet, ripe tomatoes creates a harmonious flavor profile that evokes the warmth and comfort of a sunny Mediterranean day. Each bite is a refreshing journey for your palate.
Incredibly Quick to Prepare: Say goodbye to complicated recipes! This stress-free salad can be ready in as little as 10-20 minutes, making it an ideal choice for last-minute appetizers, healthy side dishes, or even quick weeknight dinners when time is of the essence. Minimal effort, maximum reward!
Effortlessly Simple: The preparation couldn’t be easier. With just a handful of fresh ingredients, all you need to do is chop, toss, and dress. It’s a foolproof recipe perfect for beginner cooks and seasoned chefs alike, proving that extraordinary flavor doesn’t require complex steps.
Remarkably Healthy and Nutritious: Bursting with vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants from its fresh vegetable base, this salad is a powerhouse of nutrition. It’s light, hydrating, and perfectly complements a balanced diet, offering a guilt-free indulgence that supports your well-being.
Versatile for Any Occasion: Whether you’re hosting a backyard barbecue, enjoying a quiet lunch, or pairing it with a hearty dinner, this Greek Cucumber Salad fits seamlessly into any meal plan. Its refreshing nature makes it a perfect accompaniment to grilled meats, fish, or even other vegetarian dishes.

Essential Ingredients for Your Greek Cucumber Salad

Crafting this delightful **Cucumber Greek Salad** requires a selection of fresh, high-quality ingredients that truly shine in warmer weather. If you’re lucky enough to have a home garden, this is the perfect recipe to utilize those beautiful, sun-kissed tomatoes and crisp cucumbers you’ve been nurturing. For those without a garden, rest assured that these common ingredients are readily available at any local grocery store.

For precise measurements and detailed instructions, please consult the complete recipe card below.

Cucumbers: You’ll typically need about three medium-sized cucumbers, peeled and chopped. For the best texture and flavor, English cucumbers or Persian cucumbers are highly recommended due to their thin skin and fewer seeds. Pickling cucumbers also work well, offering a satisfying crunch. Ensure they are firm and fresh.
Tomatoes: Roma tomatoes are my go-to for their firm flesh and vibrant color, but any ripe, flavorful tomato will be excellent. Consider using vine-ripened tomatoes, cherry tomatoes (halved), or even heirloom varieties for an extra burst of sweetness and visual appeal. The riper, the better for that quintessential summer taste.
Red Onion: A key component for its sharp, slightly sweet flavor and beautiful color. Slice it thinly to ensure it integrates well without overpowering the other delicate ingredients. If you find red onion too strong, you can soak the slices in cold water for 10-15 minutes to temper their intensity.
Tarragon Vinegar: This ingredient is a true game-changer, elevating the entire flavor profile of this authentic Greek side dish. Its distinct, slightly anise-like flavor adds a sophisticated tang that traditional red wine vinegar might miss. You can easily find tarragon vinegar in most well-stocked grocery stores or specialty food shops, or even craft your own at home for a truly gourmet touch.
Dried Oregano: Essential for that classic Mediterranean aroma and taste. While dried oregano is convenient and robust, if you have fresh oregano available, feel free to use it. Just remember that fresh herbs are generally more potent, so you might need a slightly larger quantity than dried.
Feta Cheese: The iconic salty, tangy crumbles of feta cheese are indispensable. Opt for authentic Greek feta, preferably from sheep’s or goat’s milk, which offers a richer, creamier texture and a more pronounced flavor. You can buy it pre-crumbled for convenience or crumble a block yourself for a fresher, more rustic feel.
Kalamata Olives: These dark, rich, and fruity Greek olives are crucial for an authentic Mediterranean flavor. Their unique brine adds depth and savory notes that cannot be easily replicated. While black olives can be substituted in a pinch, Kalamata olives truly define the character of this salad. Ensure they are pitted and, if large, slice them in half.
Extra Virgin Olive Oil: A good quality extra virgin olive oil is the foundation of any Mediterranean dressing. Choose a flavorful, cold-pressed olive oil to impart a smooth, rich base to your vinaigrette.
Salt and Freshly Ground Black Pepper: Simple yet essential seasonings that perfectly balance and enhance all the vibrant flavors of this cucumber recipe. Adjust to your personal preference.
Fresh Tarragon (Optional): While not strictly necessary, a sprinkle of fresh tarragon leaves as a garnish can add a beautiful aroma and a subtle, fresh herbal note, especially if you enjoy its distinctive flavor. If you have some in your herb garden or can find it in the produce section, it makes a fantastic addition.

Mastering the Art of Greek Style Cucumber Salad: A Simple Guide

Crafting this savory and flavorsome salad is surprisingly straightforward, requiring just a **few simple steps**. If you’re looking for a quick yet impactful dish, this Greek tomato and cucumber salad is your perfect match.

For a more comprehensive breakdown of each step, refer to the detailed recipe card below.

Step 1: Prepare and Combine the Fresh Vegetables

Begin by gathering your beautifully chopped cucumbers, ripe tomatoes, thinly sliced red onion, and pitted Kalamata olives. In a large mixing bowl, gently toss these ingredients together. This initial combination creates the vibrant base of your salad, ensuring an even distribution of textures and colors.

Step 2: Whisk Up the Flavorful Vinaigrette

In a separate small bowl, combine the extra virgin olive oil, tarragon vinegar, and dried oregano. Using a wire whisk, vigorously whisk these ingredients together until they are well emulsified and thoroughly blended. This creates a beautifully balanced, aromatic dressing that will infuse your salad with irresistible Mediterranean zest.

Step 3: Dress the Salad to Perfection

Gently pour the freshly prepared vinaigrette over the bowl of mixed vegetables. Use a large spoon or salad tongs to thoroughly mix all the ingredients, ensuring every piece of cucumber, tomato, onion, and olive is coated with the vibrant dressing. This step is crucial for allowing the flavors to meld beautifully.

Step 4: Incorporate Feta and Season

Now, it’s time for the star addition: the crumbled feta cheese. Add the feta to the salad and gently toss again to distribute it evenly. Finish by seasoning the Greek salad with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste. If you’re using fresh tarragon, sprinkle it over the salad at this stage for an extra layer of herbal freshness.

Step 5: Chill and Serve

For the best flavor and a truly refreshing experience, transfer your freshly made Greek cucumber salad to the refrigerator and allow it to chill for at least 30 minutes before serving. This chilling time allows all the incredible flavors to fully meld and develop, resulting in a perfectly balanced and invigorating salad. Serve cold and enjoy!

LOVE IT? PIN IT!

Don’t let this incredible Greek side dish slip away! Make sure to save this recipe to your favorite Pinterest board so you can easily find it whenever a craving for fresh, vibrant flavors strikes. Pin it now and prepare for a taste of the Mediterranean!

Expert Tips for the Best Greek Cucumber Salad

Elevate your Greek Cucumber Salad from good to absolutely extraordinary with these helpful tips:

Serve Chilled for Optimal Flavor: While delicious at room temperature, this salad truly comes alive when served cold. The refreshing chill enhances the crispness of the vegetables and sharpens the tangy notes of the dressing. Aim for at least 30 minutes of refrigeration before serving.
Proper Storage for Leftovers: If you happen to have any leftovers (which is unlikely!), store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. This salad will maintain its freshness and delightful flavor for up to four days, making it perfect for meal prepping.
Embrace Ripened Tomatoes: The quality of your tomatoes dramatically impacts the salad’s taste. Always choose fully ripened tomatoes for flavors that are rich, sweet, and bright. Under-ripe tomatoes can be watery and lack depth.
Fresh is Best, But Not Always Necessary: While fresh vegetables directly from your garden offer an unparalleled burst of flavor, they are not always accessible. Rest assured, high-quality produce from your local grocery store will still yield a fantastic and delicious salad.
Customizing Your Dressing: Feel free to adjust the ratios of olive oil and tarragon vinegar to suit your preference. For a tangier salad, add a bit more vinegar; for a smoother, richer profile, a touch more olive oil works wonders. You can also experiment with a pinch of fresh garlic or a squeeze of lemon juice.
Allow Flavors to Marinate: While this salad is quick to make, allowing it to sit for at least 30 minutes (or even an hour) in the refrigerator before serving enables the ingredients to marinate and the flavors to deepen. The vegetables absorb the dressing, creating a more cohesive and robust taste.
Cucumber Preparation Matters: If your cucumbers are very watery, especially standard garden cucumbers, you might consider seeding them before chopping to prevent the salad from becoming soggy. For a super crisp salad, you can also lightly salt the chopped cucumbers and let them drain in a colander for 15-20 minutes, then pat them dry before adding to the bowl.
Don’t Skimp on Quality Ingredients: Since this salad features minimal ingredients, the quality of each component truly shines. Invest in good quality extra virgin olive oil and authentic Greek feta for the most authentic and delicious results.

Frequently Asked Questions About Greek Cucumber Salad

Here are answers to some common questions about this delightful Greek Cucumber Salad:

What kind of cucumbers are best for this salad? For optimal results, English cucumbers or Persian cucumbers are highly recommended. They have thinner skins, smaller seeds (or are seedless), and a crisp texture that holds up well in the salad. If using regular garden cucumbers, you might want to peel and seed them to avoid excess water.
Can I make Greek Cucumber Salad ahead of time? Yes, absolutely! This salad tastes even better after the flavors have had a chance to meld. You can prepare it up to 2-4 hours in advance and store it in the refrigerator. For longer storage (up to 2-3 days), it’s best to add the feta cheese just before serving to prevent it from becoming too soggy.
Is this salad vegan or gluten-free? The recipe as written is naturally gluten-free. To make it vegan, simply omit the feta cheese or substitute it with a plant-based feta alternative. The rest of the ingredients are plant-based.
How long does Greek Cucumber Salad last in the refrigerator? When stored in an airtight container, the salad will stay fresh for up to 4 days. The cucumbers might soften slightly over time, but the flavors will remain delicious.
What can I serve with Greek Cucumber Salad? This versatile salad pairs beautifully with a wide array of dishes! It’s excellent alongside grilled chicken, fish, or lamb kebabs. It also complements Mediterranean staples like falafel, hummus, pita bread, and rice pilaf. For a lighter meal, serve it with a crusty loaf of bread for dipping in the delicious dressing.
Can I add other vegetables? Definitely! While the traditional Greek cucumber salad is simple, you can certainly add other fresh vegetables. Bell peppers (green, red, or yellow), cherry tomatoes, or even a few capers can add extra flavor and texture.

Inspiring Salad Recipes for Summer

Looking for more fresh and flavorful salad ideas to brighten your summer meals? Here are some delicious inspirations:

Super Simple Potato Salad
Vegetarian Pasta Salad
New Orleans Olive Salad
Cucumber Salad with Yogurt Dressing
Green Salad with Lemon Thyme Vinaigrette

It’s time to whip up your own bowl of incredibly fresh and authentic **Greek Cucumber Salad**! Enjoy every vibrant, zesty bite.

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Print Recipe

Greek Style Cucumber Salad

This recipe for Greek Style Cucumber Salad is truly delicious! Perfectly fresh and crisp with bright and tangy flavors such as tarragon vinegar, crunchy cucumbers, feta cheese, and tender tomatoes, you’re going to love this salad that is prepared in about 10 minutes! Perfect alongside any main course or protein for a light, yet flavorful experience.

Prep Time

10 minutes

Total Time

10 minutes

Cuisine:
Greek

Keyword:
cucumber salad, cucumber tomato salad, easy salad, greek cucumber salad recipe, Greek Style Cucumber Salad, Mediterranean, ways to use cucumbers

Servings:

10
servings

Calories:

104
kcal

Author:
Michaela Kenkel

Equipment

12-Piece Black Sharp Knife Set with Covers, Cutting Board and Sharpener

Ingredients

2-3
cucumbers
peeled and sliced lengthwise into quarters, and chopped
4-6
Roma tomatoes
chopped
½
of one red onion
sliced thin
¼
cup
olive oil
1½
Tablespoons
Tarragon vinegar
2
teaspoons
dried oregano
½
cup
crumbled feta cheese
Salt and Pepper
to taste
½
cup
Kalamata olives
pitted and sliced in half
fresh tarragon
optional

Instructions

In a large bowl, toss together cucumbers, tomatoes, onion and olives.
Whisk together olive oil, Tarragon vinegar and oregano, pour over salad and mix to combine.
Add in feta cheese, combine.
Salt and Pepper to taste. Add in tarragon if desired.
Refrigerate and serve cold.

Notes

Store leftovers covered in the fridge for up to 4 days.

Nutrition

This recipe was originally posted on September 28, 2015. It was meticulously updated to enhance user experience and reshared on May 4, 2021, ensuring the content is fresh, comprehensive, and even more helpful for our readers.

I first discovered this recipe back in 2015, adding it to my collection of must-try dishes. One day, while seeking inspiration for new cucumber salads, I decided it was finally time to give this one a go. Upon opening the blog, I was delighted to find it came from my talented fellow blogger friend, Ashlyn, from Belle of the Kitchen. Knowing her reputation for delicious and reliable recipes, I had no doubt this would be a winner! I made only slight adjustments to her original creation, and my instincts were right – it delivered the perfect balance of authentic Greek flavors within a refreshing cucumber and tomato salad. It’s truly a testament to simple, quality ingredients.