Enjoy the refreshing burst of flavors in a Mediterranean Cucumber Salad with Olives and Feta! Picture this: crisp cucumbers mingling with briny olives, creamy feta, and a drizzle of olive oil that whispers sweet nothings to your taste buds. creamy cucumber salad with yogurt Your mouth will water just imagining it, right? For more inspiration, check out this whipped Greek yogurt recipe.
Now, let’s be honest. This salad is not just a side dish; it’s an experience! Whether it’s a sizzling summer barbecue or a cozy family dinner, this salad effortlessly steals the spotlight. It brings back memories of sun-soaked days by the Mediterranean, where every bite tastes like a mini-vacation. Get ready to dive into a bowl of pure happiness!
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- This Mediterranean Cucumber Salad with Olives and Feta is quick and easy to make, perfect for busy weeknights.
- The combination of fresh veggies and tangy feta makes every bite a flavor explosion.
- Vibrant colors make it an eye-catching centerpiece on any table.
- Enjoy it as a light meal or serve as an enticing side dish at gatherings.
Ingredients for Mediterranean Cucumber Salad with Olives and Feta
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
- Cucumbers: Choose firm, fresh cucumbers for that satisfying crunch; you can use English or regular cucumbers.
- Kalamata Olives: These dark beauties add a briny kick; pitted olives are best for easy mixing.
- Feta Cheese: Crumbled feta lends creaminess; opt for quality Greek feta for authentic flavor.
- Cherry Tomatoes: Juicy cherry tomatoes provide sweetness; slice them in half for added flair.
- Red Onion: Thinly sliced red onion adds sharpness; soak in water briefly to mellow the flavor if desired.
- Extra Virgin Olive Oil: Use high-quality olive oil to enhance overall taste; it’s the dressing’s secret weapon!
- Lemon Juice: Freshly squeezed lemon juice brightens flavors; don’t skimp on this zesty addition!
- Fresh Herbs (Parsley or Dill): A handful of chopped herbs adds freshness and color; pick your favorite!
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
How to Make Mediterranean Cucumber Salad with Olives and Feta
Follow these simple steps to prepare this delicious dish:
Step 1: Prepare the Veggies
Start by washing all your vegetables thoroughly. Slice the cucumbers into bite-sized pieces think refreshing bites of summer! Halve the cherry tomatoes and thinly slice the red onion.
Step 2: Mix It Up
In a large mixing bowl, toss together the cucumbers, olives, cherry tomatoes, red onion, and herbs. Feel free to unleash your inner chef here; toss like you’re on a cooking show!
Step 3: Add Feta
Sprinkle the crumbled feta cheese over the top of your colorful mix. It’s like confetti for your taste buds who doesn’t love a good party?
Step 4: Dress It Right
In a small bowl, whisk together extra virgin olive oil and fresh lemon juice until well blended. Pour this delightful dressing over your salad.
Step 5: Toss Again
Gently toss everything together until well combined. You want each ingredient coated in that luscious dressing without turning them into mush unless you prefer mushy salads (no judgment here!).
Step 6: Serve & Enjoy
Transfer your gorgeous Mediterranean Cucumber Salad with Olives and Feta onto plates or serve directly from the bowl. Garnish with more herbs if you’re feeling fancy!
And there you have it a vibrant salad bursting with flavors ready to brighten up any meal or gathering!
You Must Know
- This Mediterranean Cucumber Salad with Olives and Feta is not just a side dish; it’s a party on your plate.
- The crunch of fresh cucumbers, the saltiness of olives, and the creaminess of feta create a perfect harmony that will leave your taste buds dancing.
- It’s simple to whip up and adds a pop of color to any meal.
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Start by chopping all your ingredients before you begin mixing. This way, you can toss everything together in one go, ensuring every bite is equally delightful. As you prepare the dressing, let the flavors mingle while you chop. Efficiency is key!
Add Your Touch
Feel free to customize this salad! Swap out cucumbers for diced bell peppers or add some cherry tomatoes for a burst of sweetness. Want a kick? Toss in some red pepper flakes or fresh herbs like parsley or dill for added flavor.
Storing & Reheating
Store any leftover Mediterranean Cucumber Salad in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. The salad can be enjoyed cold straight from the fridge, but if you prefer it at room temperature, let it sit out for about 15 minutes before serving.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- To keep your cucumbers crispy, try salting them briefly before mixing; it draws out excess moisture.
- Use high-quality feta for better flavor it’s worth it!
- Lastly, make the salad ahead of time to let those flavors meld beautifully.
I remember the first time I made this Mediterranean Cucumber Salad with Olives and Feta for my family picnic. They devoured it so fast that I barely got a taste! That’s when I knew I had struck culinary gold.
FAQs
What ingredients are needed for Mediterranean Cucumber Salad with Olives and Feta?
To prepare Mediterranean cucumber and onion salad not only tastes great but also offers numerous health benefits from its vibrant ingredients.
How can I customize my Mediterranean Cucumber Salad with Olives and Feta?
You can easily customize Mediterranean Cucumber Salad with Olives and Feta to suit your taste preferences. Feel free to add ingredients like bell peppers, avocado, or even chickpeas for extra flavor and nutrition. If you’re looking for a spicy kick, consider adding some crushed red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños. You can also substitute different types of cheese if you prefer something other than feta. The versatility of this salad makes it perfect for various occasions, whether it’s a picnic or a dinner party.
How long can I store Mediterranean Cucumber Salad with Olives and Feta?
Mediterranean Cucumber Salad with Olives and Feta is best enjoyed fresh but can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. After that time, the cucumbers may become soggy due to the dressing. To keep it fresher longer, consider storing the dressing separately and combining it just before serving. This way, you’ll maintain that crunchy texture while still enjoying the delicious flavors of this vibrant salad.
Is Mediterranean Cucumber Salad with Olives and Feta suitable for meal prep?
Yes, Mediterranean Cucumber Salad with Olives and Feta is an excellent option for meal prep! It holds up well in the refrigerator when stored correctly. You can chop all your vegetables in advance and mix them when you’re ready to eat. For optimal freshness, keep the dressing separate until serving time. This makes it easy to enjoy healthy meals throughout the week without sacrificing flavor or texture.
Conclusion for Mediterranean Cucumber Salad with Olives and Feta
In summary, Mediterranean Cucumber Salad with Olives and Feta combines fresh ingredients that offer both flavor and nutrition. With its easy customization options, this dish fits various dietary preferences while remaining light yet satisfying. classic cucumber salad with dill Enjoy it as a side dish or a refreshing main course during warm weather. Whether you’re preparing it for a family dinner or meal prepping for the week ahead, this salad is sure to impress anyone who tries it!
Mediterranean Cucumber Salad with Olives and Feta
- Total Time: 51 minute
- Yield: Serves 4
Description
Mediterranean Cucumber Salad with Olives and Feta is a vibrant, refreshing dish that perfectly embodies summer. This salad features crisp cucumbers, juicy cherry tomatoes, briny Kalamata olives, and creamy feta cheese, all drizzled with extra virgin olive oil and freshly squeezed lemon juice. Bursting with flavor and color, it’s an ideal side for barbecues or a light meal any day of the week. Quick to prepare and satisfying, this salad will transport your taste buds to the Mediterranean coast.
Ingredients
- 2 cups diced cucumbers
- 1 cup halved cherry tomatoes
- 1/2 cup pitted and sliced Kalamata olives
- 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese
- 1/4 cup thinly sliced red onion
- 3 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
- 2 tbsp freshly squeezed lemon juice
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley or dill
Instructions
- Wash and prepare all vegetables: dice cucumbers, halve cherry tomatoes, and thinly slice red onion.
- In a large bowl, combine cucumbers, cherry tomatoes, olives, red onion, and herbs.
- Sprinkle crumbled feta cheese over the salad mixture.
- In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil and lemon juice; pour over the salad.
- Gently toss until well combined. Serve immediately or refrigerate until ready to enjoy.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: N/A
- Category: Salad
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: Mediterranean
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (150g)
- Calories: 180
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 360mg
- Fat: 14g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 10g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 5g
- Cholesterol: 15mg
Keywords: For added crunch, salt cucumbers briefly before mixing to draw out excess moisture. Customize by adding diced bell peppers or avocado for varied flavor profiles. Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to three days; keep dressing separate for best texture.
