Few dishes capture the essence of summer like a Greek Cucumber & Tomato Salad. Bursting with color, texture, and fresh Mediterranean flavor, this salad brings together crunchy cucumbers, sweet ripe tomatoes, salty feta, and briny olives — all tossed in a simple, tangy olive oil dressing.
It’s a dish that feels both rustic and elegant, perfect for pairing with grilled meats, seafood, or a slice of warm pita bread. Every bite offers a refreshing mix of crisp vegetables, creamy cheese, and the bright tang of lemon and vinegar.
Whether you’re hosting a backyard barbecue, preparing a quick lunch, or looking for a healthy side that pairs with almost anything, this Greek salad is the answer. It’s proof that the simplest ingredients can create something absolutely extraordinary.
Why You’ll Love This Greek Cucumber & Tomato Salad
- Bursting with vibrant Mediterranean flavors.
- Light, healthy, and naturally gluten-free.
- Quick to prepare — ready in under 15 minutes.
- Pairs perfectly with grilled chicken, steak, or seafood.
- Great for meal prep and summer gatherings.
Why You Should Try This Recipe
If you’re craving something fresh yet satisfying, this Greek salad checks every box. The crisp cucumbers bring crunch, the tomatoes add sweetness, the olives lend depth, and the feta cheese provides creamy, salty contrast.
It’s not only delicious but also nutritious — packed with antioxidants, healthy fats, and fiber. Plus, the homemade dressing elevates it from basic to exceptional, with the perfect balance of acidity and richness. It’s a salad you’ll actually look forward to eating.
Ingredients You’ll Need
For the Salad:
- 2 large cucumbers, sliced into half-moons
- 3 ripe tomatoes, chopped (or 2 cups cherry tomatoes, halved)
- ½ small red onion, thinly sliced
- ½ cup Kalamata olives, pitted
- ½ cup feta cheese, cubed or crumbled
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley or oregano, chopped
For the Dressing:
- 3 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
- 1 tablespoon red wine vinegar
- ½ teaspoon dried oregano
- ½ teaspoon Dijon mustard (optional, for creaminess)
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- Juice of ½ lemon (optional, for brightness)
How to Make Greek Cucumber & Tomato Salad (Step by Step)
Step 1: Prepare the vegetables
First, wash and dry all your vegetables thoroughly. Slice the cucumbers into half-moons, chop the tomatoes into bite-sized pieces, and thinly slice the red onion.
Step 2: Combine the salad base
Next, place the cucumbers, tomatoes, onions, and olives into a large mixing bowl. Gently toss them together to combine.
Step 3: Make the dressing
Meanwhile, in a small bowl or jar, whisk together olive oil, red wine vinegar, oregano, Dijon mustard, salt, pepper, and lemon juice until emulsified.
Step 4: Toss and finish
Pour the dressing over the vegetables and toss gently to coat. Add the feta cheese and parsley, then toss again lightly — just enough to mix without crumbling the cheese too much.
Step 5: Serve
Finally, serve immediately or chill for 20–30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.
Tips for the Best Greek Cucumber & Tomato Salad
- Use ripe, juicy tomatoes — They’re the heart of this salad. Look for tomatoes that smell sweet and feel firm but not hard.
- Go for seedless cucumbers — English or Persian cucumbers are ideal for crisp texture.
- Slice onions thinly — So they add flavor without overpowering.
- Use good-quality olive oil — It makes a big difference in flavor.
- Add dressing just before serving — Keeps the veggies crisp and fresh.
- Chill before serving — Enhances the flavor and texture.
- Crumble feta by hand — For a rustic, authentic look.
- Add a touch of sweetness — A pinch of honey can balance acidity if desired.
- Experiment with herbs — Fresh oregano, dill, or mint all work beautifully.
- Make it ahead — Prep ingredients ahead of time, but add dressing last.
Variations & Substitutions
- Avocado Greek Salad: Add diced avocado for extra creaminess.
- Protein Boost: Toss in grilled chicken, shrimp, or chickpeas.
- Creamy Version: Stir in a spoonful of Greek yogurt or tzatziki.
- Low-Sodium Option: Use less feta and rinse the olives before adding.
- Vegan: Skip the feta or use a plant-based cheese alternative.
- Spicy Twist: Add chili flakes or sliced pepperoncini.
- With Grains: Mix in cooked quinoa or couscous for a heartier meal.
- Lemon-Herb Dressing: Replace vinegar with lemon juice and add dill.
- Caprese Fusion: Add fresh basil and mozzarella for a Mediterranean-Italian crossover.
- Roasted Veggie Upgrade: Add roasted red peppers or artichoke hearts for depth.
What to Serve With Greek Cucumber & Tomato Salad
- Grilled chicken or lamb
- Pan-seared salmon or shrimp
- Falafel or pita wraps
- Garlic butter steak
- Hummus and warm flatbread
- Roasted potatoes or rice pilaf
- Tzatziki sauce on the side
- Glass of chilled white wine or lemonade
Storage & Reheating Tips
To Store:
Refrigerate leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. For best results, store the dressing separately to keep vegetables crisp.
To Refresh:
If the salad releases liquid after chilling, simply drain excess liquid and toss again with a drizzle of olive oil before serving.
Do Not Freeze:
This salad is best enjoyed fresh — freezing will ruin its texture.
Recipe FAQs
Can I make this salad ahead of time?
Yes! Prep the veggies and dressing separately. Combine right before serving for maximum freshness.
Can I use different olives?
Absolutely. Green olives or mixed varieties also work well.
Can I skip the onion?
Yes — substitute with shallots or add extra cucumber instead.
Can I add lettuce?
You can, though traditional Greek salad doesn’t include it. Romaine works best if you do.
What’s the best feta to use?
Greek block feta in brine — it’s creamier and tangier than pre-crumbled feta.
Can I use cherry tomatoes?
Yes, they’re perfect — just halve them before tossing.
Can I use bottled dressing?
Homemade is best, but a quality Greek vinaigrette works in a pinch.
Can I serve it warm?
It’s best chilled or at room temperature for freshness.
Can I add grains?
Yes — quinoa or bulgur make it more filling.
Is it gluten-free?
Naturally! Just check that your feta and vinegar are gluten-free certified.