Name: Mediterranean Cucumber Tomato Salad Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Total time: 10 min
Cuisine: Mediterranean
Ingredients: 2 large cucumbers, chopped; 1 1/2 cups cherry or grape tomatoes, halved; 1/4 cup red onion, thinly sliced; 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese (optional); 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped; 2 tbsp fresh basil or oregano, chopped; 3 tbsp extra virgin olive oil; 1 tbsp red wine vinegar or lemon juice; 1/4 tsp salt; 1/4 tsp black pepper

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If you are craving a dish that bursts with freshness, brightness, and authentic flavors from the Mediterranean coast, this Mediterranean Cucumber Tomato Salad Recipe will quickly become your go-to favorite. Combining crisp cucumbers and juicy tomatoes with fragrant herbs and a zesty dressing, this salad is a wonderful way to celebrate simple, wholesome ingredients. Whether you want a quick side for dinner or a light lunch that feels nourishing and satisfying, this salad delivers on every level. Plus, it’s incredibly easy to make and endlessly adaptable to whatever Mediterranean-inspired mood you’re in!

Ingredients You’ll Need

A wooden board on a white marbled surface holds a long dark green cucumber in the center. Around it are seven white bowls: one filled with mixed red and yellow grape tomatoes, another with green, black, and purple olives, one with crumbled white cheese, a small bowl of chopped green herbs, and a dish with salt, black pepper, and dried green seasoning. Half a lemon and half of a red onion lie beside the cucumber, with a small glass bowl of golden olive oil nearby. A woman's hand holds the board slightly from the side. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

This salad’s magic lies in its straightforward, fresh ingredients that each bring something special to the bowl. Every element plays a vital role in creating a perfect harmony of flavors and textures — from crunchy cucumbers to tangy feta and the punchy dressing. Here’s what you’ll want to gather:

2 large cucumbers, chopped: Choose firm cucumbers for the crispest bites that brighten the salad’s texture.
1 1/2 cups cherry or grape tomatoes, halved: Opt for ripe, juicy tomatoes to add vibrant sweetness and color.
1/4 cup red onion, thinly sliced: Adds a mild sharpness and lovely crunch that contrasts beautifully with the softer veggies.
1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese (optional): This adds a creamy, salty element that enhances the Mediterranean vibe.
2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped: Brings fresh, herbaceous brightness to refresh each bite.
2 tbsp fresh basil or oregano, chopped: Whichever herb you choose, it introduces classic Mediterranean earthiness and aroma.

For the dressing:

3 tbsp extra virgin olive oil: The foundation of the dressing, rich and fruity for a luscious finish.
1 tbsp red wine vinegar or lemon juice: A splash of acidity to balance the richness and sharpen the flavors.
1/4 tsp salt: Enhances all the natural flavors in the salad.
1/4 tsp black pepper: Adds just a hint of gentle heat.

How to Make Mediterranean Cucumber Tomato Salad Recipe

Step 1: Prep Your Fresh Veggies

Start by washing your cucumbers and tomatoes thoroughly. Chop the cucumbers into bite-sized pieces and halve the tomatoes — their juicy interiors will soak up all the flavors. Thinly slice the red onion to keep its flavor balanced but still noticeable.

Step 2: Mix the Salad Together

In a large bowl, combine the cucumbers, tomatoes, sliced red onion, crumbled feta cheese (if you’re using it), and the freshly chopped parsley and basil or oregano. This mixture of fresh vegetables and herbs sets the stage for the vibrant Mediterranean taste.

Step 3: Whisk the Dressing

In a small bowl, whisk together the extra virgin olive oil, your choice of red wine vinegar or lemon juice, salt, and black pepper. This simple dressing complements the fresh ingredients perfectly by adding richness and a subtle tang.

Step 4: Combine and Toss

Pour the dressing over the salad, then toss everything gently but thoroughly. The goal is for every cucumber, tomato, and crumb of feta to be evenly coated so each bite is bursting with balanced flavor.

Step 5: Serve or Chill

While this Mediterranean Cucumber Tomato Salad Recipe tastes wonderful served immediately, letting it chill in the fridge for about 10 minutes allows the flavors to meld beautifully. Either way, it’s ready to enjoy in just minutes.

How to Serve Mediterranean Cucumber Tomato Salad Recipe

A white bowl filled with a colorful salad made of finely chopped layers of light green cucumber, bright red tomato, and small pieces of purple onion, all mixed evenly with small green herb bits on top, creating a fresh and vibrant look. A silver spoon is placed inside the bowl, and the bowl is sitting on a white marbled surface with a lemon half and green herbs blurred in the background. The overall texture is crisp and fresh, showing small diced pieces that make the salad look light and healthy. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

To elevate the salad further, sprinkle extra fresh herbs on top for a burst of green color and fragrance. A few Kalamata olives or a handful of toasted pine nuts make gorgeous, flavorful additions that bring texture and extra Mediterranean flair.

Side Dishes

This salad pairs wonderfully with grilled meats, warm pita bread, or stuffed grape leaves. Its light, refreshing qualities also make it a fantastic complement to heavier Mediterranean dishes like mousaka or falafel.

Creative Ways to Present

For a stunning presentation, serve the salad in a hollowed-out cucumber boat or across a large platter with layers of herbs and edible flowers. You can also add a few dollops of hummus around the edges for a beautiful and tasty Mediterranean mezze board.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store leftover Mediterranean Cucumber Tomato Salad Recipe in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It’s best enjoyed within 24 hours to maintain the cucumbers’ crunch and the fresh brightness of the herbs. After that, the vegetables may start to soften and release water.

Freezing

This salad is not suitable for freezing due to its fresh vegetables and delicate dressing. Freezing would compromise the texture and flavor, turning crisp cucumbers into watery mush.

Reheating

This salad is designed to be served cold or at room temperature, so reheating is not necessary or recommended. Simply bring leftovers out of the fridge to let them warm slightly before enjoying again for best taste and texture.

FAQs

Can I use other types of tomatoes?

Absolutely! While cherry or grape tomatoes work best for their size and sweetness, you can use any ripe tomatoes you have on hand. Just remember to chop larger varieties into bite-sized pieces to keep the salad balanced.

Is feta cheese necessary in this salad?

Not at all. Feta adds a lovely salty creaminess that complements the fresh veggies, but the salad is delicious even without it. If you’re avoiding dairy, leave it out or substitute with a vegan cheese alternative.

What if I don’t have fresh herbs?

Fresh parsley and basil or oregano are ideal for their bright, aromatic qualities, but if you only have dried herbs, use about a third of the amount and add them during dressing preparation to allow flavors to bloom.

Can I add protein to make it a full meal?

Yes! Adding cooked chickpeas, grilled chicken, or even tuna can turn this salad into a satisfying main dish. These additions keep the Mediterranean theme while boosting the protein content for more staying power.

How can I make this salad more tangy?

To bump up the tanginess, add a bit more red wine vinegar or substitute lemon juice for a brighter, fresher acidity. Just add gradually to avoid overpowering the other flavors.

Final Thoughts

This Mediterranean Cucumber Tomato Salad Recipe is truly a celebration of fresh ingredients and effortless flavor. It’s one of those dishes that feels like sunshine in a bowl — crisp, refreshing, and full of life. I hope you find as much joy in making and eating it as I do. Give it a try soon and watch how quickly it becomes a beloved staple in your kitchen!