This salad is a Mediterranean classic, showcasing the simplicity of fresh, wholesome ingredients. It’s perfect for summer picnics, potlucks, or as a side dish to complement any main course. The tangy dressing ties everything together, making each bite refreshing and full of flavor. This is one of those dishes where the quality of ingredients really shines, so use the ripest tomatoes and freshest herbs you can find!

Necessary Kitchen Equipment

Large salad bowl
Cutting board and knife
Whisk or small bowl (for dressing)

Overview of Ingredients

Cucumber – Adds a crisp, refreshing crunch.
Tomatoes – Use ripe, juicy tomatoes for the best flavor.
Red Onion – Thinly sliced for a subtle, tangy bite.
Kalamata Olives – Add a salty, briny touch (optional).
Fresh Herbs – Parsley or mint bring a burst of freshness.
Olive Oil – The base of a classic Mediterranean dressing.
Lemon Juice – For a bright, tangy finish.
Red Wine Vinegar – Adds a touch of acidity to balance the flavors.
Salt and Pepper – To season the salad perfectly.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Prepare the Vegetables
Wash and dry the vegetables. Slice the cucumber lengthwise and then into half-moons. Dice the tomatoes into bite-sized pieces, and thinly slice the red onion.
Combine Ingredients
In a large salad bowl, combine the cucumber, tomatoes, red onion, and Kalamata olives (if using).
Make the Dressing
In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, lemon juice, red wine vinegar, salt, and pepper until well combined. Adjust seasoning to taste.
Dress the Salad
Pour the dressing over the salad ingredients and toss gently to coat everything evenly.
Add Fresh Herbs and Serve
Sprinkle with chopped fresh parsley or mint. Serve immediately for the freshest flavor.

Recipe Tips

Use English or Persian Cucumbers: These varieties have thin skins and fewer seeds, making them perfect for salads.
Let the Salad Rest: Allowing the salad to sit for 10-15 minutes before serving helps the flavors meld together.
Add Feta for Extra Flavor: For a heartier salad, crumble some feta cheese on top.
Customize It: Feel free to add other ingredients like bell peppers, capers, or even a handful of arugula or spinach for more variety.

What to Serve with This Salad

This Mediterranean salad pairs beautifully with grilled dishes such as chicken, lamb, or fish. It’s also great alongside hummus, pita bread, or roasted vegetables. For a vegetarian meal, serve it with falafel or a grain like quinoa or couscous.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Can I make this salad ahead of time?
A: Yes, you can prepare the vegetables and dressing ahead of time, but don’t toss them together until just before serving to keep the salad fresh and crisp.

Q: Can I use different herbs?
A: Absolutely! While parsley and mint are traditional, basil, dill, or oregano would also complement this salad nicely.

Q: Is this salad gluten-free?
A: Yes, this salad is naturally gluten-free, making it a great option for those with dietary restrictions.

Q: How can I store leftovers?
A: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. However, keep in mind that the vegetables may lose some of their crunch as they sit in the dressing.

Mediterranean Salad with Cucumber, Tomato, and Onion Recipe

Ingredients

1 large cucumber, halved and sliced
4 ripe tomatoes, diced
1/2 red onion, thinly sliced
1/4 cup Kalamata olives, pitted and halved (optional)
2 tbsp fresh parsley or mint, chopped

For the Dressing

3 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
2 tbsp lemon juice
1 tbsp red wine vinegar
Salt and pepper, to taste

Instructions

Wash and slice the cucumber, tomatoes, and red onion.
In a large bowl, combine the cucumber, tomatoes, red onion, and olives (if using).
In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, red wine vinegar, salt, and pepper.
Drizzle the dressing over the salad and toss gently.
Garnish with fresh herbs and serve immediately.

Enjoy this Mediterranean Salad as a refreshing side dish or light meal that’s bursting with fresh flavors!