Greek Cucumber Tomato Salad

Why You’ll Love This Salad

This Greek cucumber and tomato salad is a classic example of the Mediterranean diet: fresh produce, healthy fats, minimal processing, and bold, satisfying flavors.

Top reasons to make this salad:

• Ready in 10 minutes

• Naturally gluten-free & vegetarian

• No mayo, no cream, no additives

• Pairs with almost anything—from grilled fish to pasta

• Perfect for hot summer days

• Packed with texture: crunchy cukes, juicy tomatoes, creamy feta, and briny olives

This is the kind of salad that’s so good it doesn’t need lettuce!

Traditional Ingredients & Substitutions

Let’s break down the simple yet essential components of a classic Greek salad—and how to substitute when needed.

🥒 Cucumbers

Best options:

• English cucumbers – Long, thin-skinned, seedless. Slice into half-moons or chunks.

• Persian cucumbers – Crisp and slightly sweet, with tender skin.

• Regular slicing cucumbers – Peel if waxed and remove seeds if large.

Pro tip: Slice evenly so the cucumbers soak up dressing but stay crisp.

🍅 Tomatoes

Tomatoes add juicy acidity. Use ripe but firm varieties such as:

• Cherry or grape tomatoes – Halved for a sweet pop

• Roma/plum tomatoes – Meaty and less watery

• Heirloom or vine-ripened – For beautiful color and taste

Avoid overripe or mushy tomatoes—they’ll make the salad watery.

🧀 Feta Cheese

This is the creamy, tangy heart of the salad.

• Traditional Greek feta is made from sheep’s milk (or a blend with goat’s milk)

• Buy blocks packed in brine for best texture and flavor

• Crumble just before serving

If avoiding dairy, you can substitute with a dairy-free feta alternative or marinated tofu.

🫒 Kalamata Olives

The signature briny punch comes from whole, pitted Kalamata olives.

• Use whole or halved

• Avoid pre-sliced canned olives for best flavor

• Substitute with Castelvetrano olives for a milder, buttery taste

🌿 Herbs

• Fresh oregano or parsley is ideal

• Use dried oregano if fresh isn’t available (½ teaspoon dried = 1 tablespoon fresh)

• Add fresh mint or basil for a twist

🫒 Olive Oil & Dressing

No complicated vinaigrette needed—just quality ingredients:

• Extra virgin olive oil

• Red wine vinegar or fresh lemon juice

• Salt and black pepper

Optional: add a pinch of garlic powder or a grated garlic clove for a flavor boost.

How to Make Greek Cucumber & Tomato Salad

🥗 Ingredients (Serves 4–6)

• 2 medium cucumbers, sliced

• 2 cups cherry or grape tomatoes, halved

• ½ red onion, thinly sliced

• ½ cup Kalamata olives (pitted)

• ½ cup crumbled feta cheese

• 2 tablespoons fresh chopped oregano or parsley (or ½ tsp dried oregano)

• 3 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil

• 1 tablespoon red wine vinegar or lemon juice

• Salt and freshly cracked black pepper, to taste

👩‍🍳 Instructions

Step 1: Prep the veggies

• Wash and slice cucumbers into half-moons

• Halve the tomatoes

• Thinly slice red onion (soaking in cold water for 5 minutes will mellow the flavor)

Step 2: Assemble

In a large mixing bowl, combine:

• Cucumbers

• Tomatoes

• Red onion

• Olives

• Fresh herbs

Step 3: Add dressing

• Drizzle with olive oil and vinegar

• Sprinkle salt and black pepper to taste

• Toss gently to combine

Step 4: Add feta

• Add feta last so it holds its texture

• Toss gently one final time or leave crumbled on top for presentation

Step 5: Serve

• Serve immediately for crisp texture

• Or chill for 15–20 minutes to let flavors meld

Optional garnish: Fresh oregano leaves or lemon wedges on the side

Flavor Tips & Variations

• Make it spicy: Add a pinch of crushed red pepper or diced mild chili

• For extra crunch: Add chopped green bell pepper or celery

• No onions? Use scallions or shallots for a milder taste

• Make it a meal: Add grilled chicken, chickpeas, or quinoa

• Dressing upgrade: Add a teaspoon of Dijon mustard and a clove of minced garlic for a bold vinaigrette

What to Serve With Greek Cucumber Tomato Salad

This salad is ultra-flexible. Serve it as:

A light side dish for:

• Grilled chicken, fish, or shrimp

• Falafel or baked tofu

• Mediterranean wraps or gyros

• Grilled vegetable skewers

• Whole grains like couscous, bulgur, or rice

As a main course with add-ins:

• Quinoa or lentils for protein

• Pita chips or flatbread

• A boiled egg or avocado for a fuller meal

Storage & Make-Ahead Tips

• Best served fresh or within a few hours

• Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days

• If prepping ahead, keep dressing and feta separate and toss before serving

• Do not freeze—vegetables and feta won’t hold texture

Nutritional Information (Per Serving – Approximate)

✅ Gluten-free
✅ Vegetarian
✅ Nut-free
✅ Mediterranean diet friendly

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Can I make Greek cucumber tomato salad ahead of time?

Yes, you can prep the veggies up to 1 day ahead and store them separately. Combine with dressing and feta just before serving to preserve texture.

What’s the best vinegar for Greek salad?

Red wine vinegar is traditional, but lemon juice or white wine vinegar works well. Use what you have!

Can I make it dairy-free?

Yes. Simply omit the feta or use a plant-based feta alternative for a vegan version.

How long does this salad last?

Up to 2 days in the fridge. The cucumbers may soften slightly, but the flavors will deepen.

Can I add lettuce to this salad?

Traditionally, Greek salads don’t include lettuce. But you can toss this mix with chopped romaine for a hybrid version.

How do I mellow the onion?

Soak sliced red onion in cold water for 5–10 minutes, then drain. This reduces the bite without losing flavor.

Final Thoughts

This Greek Cucumber & Tomato Salad is a timeless staple of fresh, vibrant eating. Whether you’re building a light summer meal, preparing a side for grilled protein, or looking for a low-effort but high-flavor dish—this salad delivers every time.

Quick Recap :

• Only 8–10 ingredients

• No mayo, no wine, no alcohol

• Ready in under 15 minutes

• Packed with Mediterranean flavor and nutrients

• Naturally gluten-free, vegetarian, and nut-free

This is more than just a salad—it’s a celebration of simplicity and seasonal produce, rooted in centuries of healthy eating traditions from the Mediterranean.

Ready to Make It?

Whether you’re entertaining guests, meal-prepping for the week, or just craving a bright and satisfying side, this Greek cucumber and tomato salad will never disappoint. Keep cucumbers, tomatoes, feta, and olives on hand, and you’ll always have the base for a delicious meal.

Optional: Serving Enhancements

• Serve with warm pita or grilled flatbread

• Add roasted chickpeas for crunch

• Use it as a topping for hummus, grain bowls, or baked potatoes

• Turn it into a wrap with grilled protein and tzatziki