Tomato and Cucumber Salad with Feta: A Refreshing Mediterranean Classic

Few salads are as simple and refreshing as the Tomato and Cucumber Salad with Feta. This dish brings together the crispness of cucumbers, the juiciness of ripe tomatoes, and the tangy creaminess of feta cheese in a harmonious balance of flavors. Dressed with olive oil and herbs, it’s a perfect light salad that can be enjoyed as a side dish, appetizer, or even a quick meal.

Inspired by the flavors of the Mediterranean, this salad is not only delicious but also packed with nutrients. It’s perfect for warm weather, but its simplicity makes it a year-round favorite. Plus, with only a handful of ingredients, it’s incredibly easy to make.

Why Tomato and Cucumber Salad with Feta?

This salad stands out for its fresh ingredients and vibrant flavors. Tomatoes provide vitamins C and A, while cucumbers offer hydration and crunch. Feta cheese adds a salty, tangy contrast to the mild sweetness of the tomatoes and the coolness of cucumbers. With a drizzle of olive oil and a sprinkle of herbs, it becomes a satisfying dish that’s full of flavor without being heavy.

Ingredients:

For the Salad:

2 cups cherry tomatoes, halved (or 2 large tomatoes, diced)

1 large cucumber, sliced or diced

1/4 red onion, thinly sliced

1/4 cup feta cheese, crumbled

1/4 cup Kalamata olives, pitted (optional)

For the Dressing:3 tbsp olive oil

1 tbsp red wine vinegar

1 tsp dried oregano

1 garlic clove, minced

Salt and pepper, to taste

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Vegetables

Rinse the tomatoes and cucumber thoroughly. Slice the cherry tomatoes in half or dice larger tomatoes into bite-sized pieces. Peel the cucumber if desired, then slice or dice it. Thinly slice the red onion and, if using, prepare the Kalamata olives by pitting and halving them.

2. Make the Dressing

In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, red wine vinegar, minced garlic, and dried oregano. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Adjust the acidity with more vinegar or olive oil, depending on your preference.

3. Assemble the Salad

In a large bowl, combine the tomatoes, cucumber, and red onion. Toss the vegetables gently with the prepared dressing, ensuring they’re evenly coated. Add the Kalamata olives if using.

4. Add the Feta

Crumble the feta cheese over the top of the salad, gently mixing it in or leaving it as a garnish on top for a more structured presentation.

5. Serve

Serve the salad immediately or refrigerate it for up to 30 minutes before serving to allow the flavors to meld. This salad pairs wonderfully with grilled meats, fish, or as part of a Mediterranean-inspired meal.

Tips and Variations:

Add herbs: 

Fresh herbs like basil, mint, or parsley can be added for extra freshness and color.

Use different cucumbers: English cucumbers or Persian cucumbers are less watery and have fewer seeds, making them a great option for this salad.

Try different cheeses: 

If you don’t have feta, goat cheese or ricotta salata are excellent substitutes that also provide a salty, tangy flavor.

Make it heartier: 

Add chickpeas or quinoa for a more filling version of this salad that works as a main course.

Why This Recipe Works:

The simplicity of this Tomato and Cucumber Salad with Feta is its strength. The fresh vegetables provide a base of crisp textures and subtle flavors, while the feta adds a punch of saltiness that brings everything together. The dressing, with its blend of olive oil and vinegar, enhances the natural flavors without overpowering them, allowing the ingredients to shine. The oregano and garlic in the dressing evoke a Mediterranean flair, making it a perfect complement to any meal inspired by those flavors.

Conclusion:

Tomato and Cucumber Salad with Feta is a quick, easy, and refreshing dish that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re serving it as a side at a summer barbecue, a light lunch, or an appetizer before a bigger meal, this salad is guaranteed to be a hit. The combination of juicy tomatoes, crisp cucumbers, and tangy feta makes for a satisfying yet light dish that’s packed with flavor and nutrition.

Enjoy the fresh, vibrant taste of the Mediterranean with every bite!