Quick 'Greek-Style' Cucumber Salad
A vibrant, no-cook Greek-style cucumber salad bursting with fresh flavors, briny olives, and tangy feta, perfect for a quick and healthy side or light meal.
For 4 servings
Wash and dry the cucumber. Cut off the ends, then chop it into bite-sized pieces (about 1/2-inch cubes).
Halve the cherry tomatoes and thinly slice the red onion. If using whole Kalamata olives, ensure they are pitted, then halve them.
In a large mixing bowl, combine the chopped cucumber, halved cherry tomatoes, sliced red onion, and halved black olives.
In a small separate bowl, whisk together the extra virgin olive oil, fresh lemon juice, sea salt, and freshly ground black pepper until well combined.
Pour the dressing over the vegetables in the large bowl. Toss gently to ensure all ingredients are evenly coated.
Add the crumbled feta cheese and chopped fresh dill (or other herbs) to the salad. Toss very gently once more to combine without breaking up the feta too much.
Taste and adjust seasoning if necessary, adding more salt, pepper, or lemon juice to your preference.
Serve immediately for the best crispness, or chill for 10-15 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
What to keep in mind.
4 tips from the recipe — small details that make a real difference to the final dish.
- 1For a less watery salad, you can lightly salt the chopped cucumber and let it sit in a colander for 10 minutes, then pat dry before adding to the salad.
- 2Use good quality extra virgin olive oil and fresh lemon juice for the best flavor. Kalamata olives are highly recommended for an authentic Greek taste.
- 3While quick, allowing the salad to chill for 15-30 minutes before serving can help the flavors meld beautifully.
- 4Add fresh herbs just before serving to maintain their vibrant color and aroma.
Adapt it for your goals.
Add Protein
Add grilled chicken breast strips, canned tuna, or a can of drained and rinsed chickpeas for a more substantial meal.
Spicy KickSpicy Kick
Crumble in a pinch of red pepper flakes with the feta or add a finely diced jalapeño for a mild heat.
Different VeggiesDifferent Veggies
Incorporate diced green bell pepper or quartered marinated artichoke hearts for added texture and flavor.
Why this is on our healthy list.
Rich in Hydration
Cucumbers are over 95% water, aiding hydration, and provide essential vitamins K and C, supporting bone health and immunity.
Heart-Healthy Fats
Olives and extra virgin olive oil are excellent sources of monounsaturated fats, which are beneficial for cardiovascular health and can help reduce bad cholesterol.
Antioxidant Boost
Tomatoes, red onion, and fresh herbs contribute various antioxidants that help combat oxidative stress and protect cells from damage.
Frequently asked questions
While best served fresh, you can chop the vegetables and prepare the dressing separately up to a day in advance. Combine them just before serving to prevent the cucumber from becoming watery and maintain crispness.
