Nothing beats the vibrant flavors of a freshly tossed Mediterranean salad. Crisp cucumbers, juicy tomatoes, and pungent red onions come together with a bright vinaigrette for a dish that’s both refreshing and satisfying. Whether you’re looking for a light lunch or a lively side to pair with grilled meats, this salad will transport you to a sun-soaked Greek coastline in just a few handfuls of ingredients.
Ingredients
- 2 cups diced cucumbers
- 2 cups diced tomatoes
- ½ cup thinly sliced red onion
- ½ cup crumbled feta cheese
- ¼ cup pitted Kalamata olives (optional)
- 3 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil
- 2 tablespoons red wine vinegar
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
Instructions
To prepare this lively salad, begin by gathering your cucumbers, tomatoes, and red onion. Chop them into bite-sized pieces, aiming to keep them relatively uniform so every forkful has a little bit of everything. Place the vegetables in a large salad bowl, then scatter the crumbled feta cheese on top. If you’re a fan of briny olives, toss in a handful of Kalamatas for added punch.
Next, in a small bowl or jar with a tight-fitting lid, whisk together (or shake) the olive oil, red wine vinegar, dried oregano, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Drizzle this fragrant dressing all over the chopped vegetables. Gently stir the salad with a large spoon so every piece is coated in the zesty vinaigrette.
Let the flavors mingle for just a few minutes before serving. The cucumber will stay crisp, the tomatoes remain juicy, and the onions develop a mellow sweetness that rounds out the salad. It’s a dish that fits as easily on a weeknight dinner table as it does on an outdoor picnic spread.
This Mediterranean salad is great for anyone seeking a healthy meal packed with fresh produce and big flavor. The heart-healthy olive oil and nutrient-rich vegetables ensure it’s as good for you as it tastes. If you’d like to vary it up, you can swap the red onion for sweet onion, or add fresh herbs like basil or dill for even more brightness. Whether you serve it alongside grilled chicken or enjoy it as a meatless main, this salad delivers a taste of sunshine in every bite.
Nathaniel Lee is an avid cook, drawing on his decades of home cooking and fine dining experience. He is a contributing chef at Mashed, and his recipes and contributions have been featured in Tasting Table, Edible Arrangements, Insanely Good Recipes, and The Daily Meal.
