Greek Cucumber Salad with Feta

Name: Greek Cucumber Salad with Feta
Prep time: 15 min
Total time: 15 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 4 medium cucumbers, diced; 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved; 1/2 red onion, thinly sliced; 1 cup feta cheese, crumbled; 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped; 1/4 cup kalamata olives, pitted and sliced; 3 tablespoons olive oil; 2 tablespoons red wine vinegar; 1 teaspoon dried oregano; Salt and pepper to taste

Highlighted under: Light & Fresh Recipes

I absolutely love making Greek Cucumber Salad with Feta, especially during the summer months when cucumbers are at their peak freshness. This dish is a vibrant mix of crunchy cucumbers, tangy feta cheese, and zesty dressing that brings a burst of flavor to any meal. It's incredibly easy to whip up and perfect as a side dish or light lunch. The combination of fresh herbs and olive oil truly elevates the taste, making it a staple in my kitchen. Trust me, once you try it, you'll want to keep it in your weekly rotation!

Created by

Anna Johnson

Last updated on 2026-02-05T16:25:28.965Z

When making Greek Cucumber Salad with Feta, I always emphasize the importance of using freshly sourced ingredients. Last summer, I visited a local farmers market and discovered some of the most aromatic herbs and crisp cucumbers. The freshness truly transformed the dish, making it not just a salad, but a gourmet experience.

Another tip I learned is to prepare the dressing separately and mix it just before serving. This keeps the cucumbers crunchy and prevents them from getting soggy. I also like to sprinkle a bit of extra feta on top for that final touch of creaminess!

Why You Will Love This Recipe
Refreshing crunch with every bite
Deliciously tangy feta that adds depth
Perfectly balanced with olive oil and fresh herbs

Choosing the Right Cucumbers

For a truly refreshing Greek Cucumber Salad, selecting the right cucumbers is crucial. I recommend using English cucumbers or Persian cucumbers, as they have thinner skins and fewer seeds compared to common slicing cucumbers. This results in a crisper texture and prevents the salad from becoming watery. Remember to wash them well to remove any pesticides and wax, especially if you choose to leave the skin on for added crunch and nutrients.

When dicing the cucumbers, aim for uniform pieces to ensure even flavor distribution. A good rule of thumb is to cut them into about 1/2-inch cubes. This size allows for easy mixing and eating, enhancing the overall dining experience. If you notice a cucumber with a bitter taste, that can happen if they’re overripe—just cut away any bitter ends to keep your salad delightful.

Elevating the Flavor with Fresh Herbs

The addition of fresh parsley in this salad not only provides a pop of color but also infuses the dish with brightness and depth. If you're feeling adventurous, you can also incorporate fresh dill or mint, both of which complement the flavors of feta and cucumbers beautifully. Fresh herbs should be added just before serving to maintain their vibrant color and aromatic qualities, ensuring the salad feels fresh and inviting.

Be mindful when chopping herbs; a fine chop will release more flavor, while rougher cuts offer a more pronounced texture. If you don't have fresh herbs, dried ones can suffice, but remember that they are more concentrated, so reduce the quantity to about one-third of the fresh amount. This simple adjustment ensures the salad doesn’t become overpowered.

Make-Ahead Tips and Serving Suggestions

Greek Cucumber Salad is perfect for preparing ahead of time. You can chop the vegetables and store them separately in airtight containers in the fridge for up to 2 days. However, it's best to add the dressing only right before serving to prevent the cucumbers from becoming soggy. This keeps the salad crisp and refreshing, retaining its appealing textures for your guests.

As for serving, this salad pairs wonderfully with grilled meats, such as chicken or lamb, or can be enjoyed as a light lunch on its own. For a more substantial meal, consider adding cooked quinoa or chickpeas, which not only boosts the nutritional profile but also makes the salad heartier and more filling. Experiment with these serving styles to find your favorite!

Ingredients

Ingredients for Greek Cucumber Salad with Feta

Salad Ingredients

4 medium cucumbers, diced
1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
1/2 red onion, thinly sliced
1 cup feta cheese, crumbled
1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
1/4 cup kalamata olives, pitted and sliced

Dressing Ingredients

3 tablespoons olive oil
2 tablespoons red wine vinegar
1 teaspoon dried oregano
Salt and pepper to taste

Mix all ingredients thoroughly for a burst of fresh flavors!

Instructions

How to Make Greek Cucumber Salad with Feta

Prepare the Vegetables

Wash and dice the cucumbers, halving the cherry tomatoes and thinly slicing the red onion. Place these in a large salad bowl.

Add Feta and Olives

Sprinkle the crumbled feta cheese and sliced kalamata olives over the vegetables in the bowl.

Make the Dressing

In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, red wine vinegar, dried oregano, salt, and pepper until well combined.

Combine and Serve

Pour the dressing over the salad and toss gently to combine. Serve immediately for the best texture.

Enjoy your refreshing Greek Cucumber Salad!

Pro Tips

For a spicier twist, try adding diced jalapeños or a pinch of red pepper flakes to the dressing.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

One common issue when making Greek Cucumber Salad is excess moisture, which can dilute the flavors and make the salad watery. To combat this, be sure to salt the chopped cucumbers lightly and let them sit for about 10 minutes before assembling the salad. This will draw out excess water—just remember to pat them dry with a paper towel before combining to maintain that crisp texture.

If you find the dressing too tangy after mixing, you can balance it by adding a pinch of sugar or honey. Another option is to increase the amount of olive oil slightly, which will enrich the dressing and soften the acidity of the vinegar while maintaining its flavorful essence.

Storing and Enjoying Leftovers

If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. I recommend consuming the salad sooner rather than later for optimal freshness. The cucumbers will eventually lose their crunch, and the flavors may meld more than desired over time.

For a quick lunch option, consider repurposing leftover salad by wrapping it in a whole wheat pita or serving it atop a bed of mixed greens. This not only adds variety to your meals but also ensures that none of this deliciousness goes to waste!

Creative Variations to Try

Feel free to get creative with this salad! Adding nuts, such as toasted pine nuts or walnuts, can introduce a delightful crunch and additional healthy fats. You might also consider incorporating bell peppers or radishes for added color, nutrition, and a bit more crunch that harmonizes with the existing ingredients.

If you're looking to make this dish vegan-friendly, simply substitute the feta cheese with crumbled tofu marinated in olive oil, lemon juice, and herbs. This not only preserves the salad's delicious flavor profile but also maintains its integrity as a refreshing dish.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make this salad ahead of time?

For best results, prepare the salad right before serving. If you must make it ahead, keep the dressing separate until you're ready to serve.

→ How long does this salad last in the fridge?

The salad is best enjoyed fresh but can be stored in the fridge for up to 2 days. The cucumbers may lose some crispness over time.

→ Can I substitute feta cheese?

Yes, you can use goat cheese or a dairy-free feta alternative if you prefer.

→ Is this salad gluten-free?

Yes, all the ingredients in this salad are naturally gluten-free.