10-Minute Greek Cucumber Salad

In our busy household, weeknight dinners often feel like a race against the clock. Finding recipes that are not only quick and easy but also genuinely delicious and healthy can be a real challenge. That’s where this 10-Minute Greek Cucumber Salad has become an absolute lifesaver. From the first time I tossed together crisp cucumbers, juicy tomatoes, briny olives, and creamy feta, drizzled with a bright lemon-herb dressing, it was an instant hit. My family, even the picky eaters, devoured it. It’s refreshing, light, and packed with flavor – the perfect side dish or light lunch. Honestly, this salad has become a staple in our rotation, especially during warmer months. It’s proof that you don’t need hours in the kitchen to create something truly special and satisfying. This recipe is a testament to fresh, simple ingredients coming together in perfect harmony, and I’m excited to share it with you!

Ingredients for Your 10-Minute Greek Cucumber Salad

Here’s what you’ll need to whip up this vibrant and flavorful Greek Cucumber Salad in just minutes. We focus on fresh, high-quality ingredients to maximize the taste and nutritional benefits of this simple yet satisfying dish.

• Cucumbers (2 medium): The star of the show! Opt for English cucumbers or Persian cucumbers as they have thinner skins and fewer seeds, making them ideal for salads and requiring no peeling. They provide a refreshing crunch and hydration.
• Tomatoes (1 pint cherry or grape tomatoes): Choose ripe and juicy cherry or grape tomatoes for their sweetness and vibrant color. Halve or quarter them depending on their size for easy eating and to release their delicious juices.
• Red Onion (½ small): Adds a sharp, pungent bite that balances the sweetness of the tomatoes and the coolness of the cucumber. Thinly sliced red onion is best, and you can soak it in cold water for a few minutes to mellow its sharpness if desired.
• Kalamata Olives (½ cup, pitted): These briny, purple olives are essential for authentic Greek flavor. Their salty and slightly fruity taste adds depth and complexity to the salad. Make sure they are pitted for convenience and enjoyment.
• Feta Cheese (4 ounces): Creamy, salty, and tangy, feta cheese crumbles are the perfect finishing touch. Choose a block of feta in brine for the best flavor and texture, and crumble it yourself rather than buying pre-crumbled feta, which can be drier.
• Extra Virgin Olive Oil (3 tablespoons): The foundation of the dressing and a cornerstone of Mediterranean cuisine. Use high-quality extra virgin olive oil for its rich flavor and health benefits. It adds richness and binds the salad together.
• Fresh Lemon Juice (2 tablespoons): Provides a bright, zesty acidity that cuts through the richness of the olive oil and feta, enhancing all the flavors in the salad. Freshly squeezed lemon juice is always preferred for its vibrant taste.
• Dried Oregano (1 teaspoon): A classic Greek herb that adds a warm, slightly peppery, and aromatic note to the salad. Dried oregano is convenient and provides a concentrated flavor.
• Salt (to taste): Enhances the flavors of all the ingredients. Use sea salt or kosher salt for the best taste. Be mindful of the saltiness of the feta and olives when seasoning.
• Black Pepper (freshly ground, to taste): Adds a subtle spice and depth of flavor. Freshly ground black pepper is always recommended for its superior aroma and taste.

Instructions: Making Your Greek Cucumber Salad in Minutes

This recipe is all about simplicity and speed. Follow these easy steps to create a delicious and refreshing Greek Cucumber Salad in just 10 minutes. No complicated techniques or fancy equipment required!

1. Prepare the Vegetables: Begin by washing your cucumbers and tomatoes thoroughly. If using English or Persian cucumbers, there’s no need to peel them. Simply slice the cucumbers into rounds or half-moons, about ¼ inch thick. For cherry or grape tomatoes, halve or quarter them depending on their size. Thinly slice the red onion. If you prefer a milder onion flavor, you can soak the sliced red onion in a bowl of cold water for 5-10 minutes while you prepare the other ingredients. This will help to reduce its sharpness. Drain the red onion thoroughly before adding it to the salad.
2. Combine the Salad Ingredients: In a medium to large salad bowl, combine the sliced cucumbers, halved or quartered tomatoes, thinly sliced red onion (drained if soaked), and pitted Kalamata olives. Gently toss all the vegetables together to ensure they are evenly distributed in the bowl. This creates the base of your vibrant and colorful Greek salad.
3. Make the Simple Lemon-Herb Dressing: In a small bowl or directly over the salad bowl, whisk together the extra virgin olive oil, fresh lemon juice, and dried oregano. Whisk vigorously until the dressing is slightly emulsified and well combined. This simple dressing is the key to the authentic Greek flavor of the salad.
4. Dress the Salad: Pour the lemon-herb dressing evenly over the vegetables in the salad bowl. Gently toss the salad to ensure that all the vegetables are lightly coated with the dressing. Be careful not to over-dress the salad; you want just enough dressing to enhance the flavors without making it soggy.
5. Add the Feta and Season: Crumble the feta cheese over the top of the salad. Season the salad with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste. Remember to taste the salad before adding salt, as the feta cheese and Kalamata olives are already quite salty. Adjust seasoning as needed to your preference.
6. Serve Immediately or Chill (Briefly): For the best texture and freshness, it’s ideal to serve the Greek Cucumber Salad immediately after preparing it. However, you can also chill it in the refrigerator for a short period, about 15-20 minutes, if you prefer it slightly colder. Avoid chilling it for too long as the cucumbers and tomatoes can lose some of their crispness and become watery.
7. Garnish (Optional): For an extra touch of freshness and visual appeal, you can garnish the salad with a sprinkle of freshly chopped parsley or dill before serving. A few extra Kalamata olives or a drizzle of olive oil can also enhance the presentation.

Nutrition Facts: Freshness and Goodness in Every Serving

This 10-Minute Greek Cucumber Salad is not only incredibly delicious but also packed with nutrients. It’s a light, healthy, and refreshing option that fits perfectly into a balanced diet. Here’s a glimpse into the nutritional profile of a serving (approximately 1 cup):

• Servings: 6
• Calories per Serving: Approximately 150-180 kcal (This can vary slightly based on ingredient quantities and type of feta cheese)
• Fat: 12-15g (Primarily healthy monounsaturated fats from olive oil and feta)

Key Nutritional Benefits:

• Hydration: Cucumbers and tomatoes are high in water content, helping you stay hydrated.
• Vitamins and Minerals: Rich in Vitamin C, Vitamin K, and potassium from tomatoes and cucumbers.
• Antioxidants: Olive oil, tomatoes, and red onion are sources of antioxidants that help protect your cells from damage.
• Healthy Fats: Olive oil provides heart-healthy monounsaturated fats, beneficial for cardiovascular health.
• Calcium: Feta cheese is a good source of calcium, important for bone health.

Note: Nutritional information is an estimate and can vary based on specific ingredients and portion sizes. For precise nutritional values, it is recommended to use a nutrition calculator with specific ingredient brands and amounts.

Preparation Time: From Prep to Plate in Just 10 Minutes

As the name suggests, this Greek Cucumber Salad is incredibly quick to prepare. The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity and speed. Here’s a breakdown of the preparation time:

• Total Preparation Time: Approximately 10 minutes
• Chopping and Prep: 5-7 minutes (Washing and chopping vegetables, pitting olives, crumbling feta)
• Dressing Preparation: 1-2 minutes (Whisking together dressing ingredients)
• Assembly and Tossing: 2-3 minutes (Combining ingredients and dressing)

This 10-minute preparation time makes it a perfect recipe for busy weeknights, last-minute gatherings, or whenever you need a healthy and delicious side dish in a hurry. It’s a fantastic option for those who are short on time but don’t want to compromise on flavor or nutrition. The minimal prep and quick assembly mean you can enjoy a fresh and vibrant salad without spending hours in the kitchen.

How to Serve Your 10-Minute Greek Cucumber Salad

This versatile Greek Cucumber Salad is a wonderful addition to a variety of meals. Its fresh and light flavors make it an excellent side dish or a satisfying light lunch. Here are some delicious ways to serve it:

• As a Side Dish:
  • Grilled Meats: Perfectly complements grilled chicken, fish, steak, or lamb. The salad’s refreshing acidity cuts through the richness of grilled meats.
  • Mediterranean Feasts: Essential part of any Greek or Mediterranean-themed meal. Serve alongside dishes like souvlaki, gyros, moussaka, or spanakopita.
  • Vegetarian Mains: Pairs beautifully with vegetarian dishes such as falafel, grilled halloumi, or vegetable skewers.
  • Simple Weeknight Dinners: Elevates simple dinners like roasted chicken, baked fish, or even pasta dishes.
• As a Light Lunch:
  • On its Own: Enjoy a generous bowl of Greek Cucumber Salad for a refreshing and light lunch, especially during warmer months.
  • With Pita Bread: Serve with warm pita bread for scooping up the salad or making mini pita pockets.
  • With Hummus and Veggies: Combine with hummus, carrots, celery sticks, and pita bread for a balanced and satisfying light meal.
  • Topped with Protein: Add grilled chicken, chickpeas, or white beans to make it a more substantial and protein-rich lunch.
• For Gatherings and Potlucks:
  • BBQs and Cookouts: A refreshing and crowd-pleasing salad for summer BBQs and cookouts.
  • Potlucks and Picnics: Easy to transport and always a hit at potlucks and picnics. Just make the dressing separately and toss it with the salad just before serving to maintain freshness.
  • Appetizer or Starter: Serve small portions in bowls or on plates as a refreshing appetizer or starter before a larger meal.

Serving Tips:

• Serve Chilled or at Room Temperature: While best served fresh, it can be slightly chilled for extra refreshment. Avoid serving it ice-cold, as it can dull the flavors.
• Garnish for Presentation: Garnish with fresh herbs like parsley or dill, a sprinkle of extra feta, or a drizzle of olive oil for a more appealing presentation.
• Prepare Just Before Serving (Ideally): For the freshest and crispiest salad, prepare it shortly before you plan to serve it.

Additional Tips for the Best 10-Minute Greek Cucumber Salad

Elevate your 10-Minute Greek Cucumber Salad from simple to spectacular with these helpful tips and tricks. These suggestions will ensure your salad is always fresh, flavorful, and perfectly balanced.

1. Use High-Quality Olive Oil: The dressing is simple, so the quality of your olive oil truly shines through. Opt for a good quality extra virgin olive oil for the best flavor and health benefits. A fruity and robust olive oil will enhance the overall taste of the salad.
2. Fresh Lemon Juice is Key: Avoid bottled lemon juice if possible. Freshly squeezed lemon juice provides a brighter, more vibrant acidity that is essential for the authentic Greek flavor. The difference in taste is significant.
3. Don’t Over-Dress: Start with the recommended amount of dressing and toss gently. You can always add a little more dressing if needed, but it’s better to under-dress than over-dress. Too much dressing can make the salad soggy and mask the fresh flavors of the vegetables.
4. Season to Taste (Carefully): Feta cheese and Kalamata olives are already salty, so taste the salad before adding salt. You may find you need very little or no additional salt. Freshly ground black pepper is a must for adding a subtle spice and depth.
5. Mellow Red Onion (Optional): If you find red onion too pungent, soak the thinly sliced onion in cold water for 5-10 minutes before adding it to the salad. This will mellow its sharpness while retaining its flavor and crunch. Drain thoroughly before adding to the salad.
6. Add Fresh Herbs (Optional): While dried oregano is classic, adding fresh herbs like chopped parsley, dill, or mint can elevate the salad even further. Experiment with different combinations to find your favorite flavor profile. Fresh dill and mint are particularly refreshing in summer.
7. Customize with Vegetables: Feel free to add other vegetables to your Greek Cucumber Salad. Bell peppers (especially green or red), artichoke hearts, or sun-dried tomatoes can be delicious additions. Just be mindful of maintaining the overall balance of flavors.
8. Make it Ahead (Partially): You can prep the vegetables ahead of time (slice cucumbers, tomatoes, onions) and store them separately in the refrigerator. Make the dressing and store it separately as well. When ready to serve, combine the vegetables, dressing, and feta. This saves time when you’re in a rush. However, for the best texture, toss and dress the salad just before serving.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) About 10-Minute Greek Cucumber Salad

Got questions about making the perfect 10-Minute Greek Cucumber Salad? Here are answers to some common questions to help you create this delicious and refreshing dish with confidence.

Q1: Can I make this salad ahead of time?

A: While it’s best served fresh, you can prep the ingredients ahead. Slice the vegetables and store them separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to a day. Make the dressing and store it separately at room temperature or in the fridge. Combine everything and add the feta just before serving for the best texture and flavor. Avoid dressing the salad too far in advance as it can become soggy.

Q2: Can I use different types of cucumbers?

A: Yes, you can. English cucumbers and Persian cucumbers are ideal due to their thin skin and fewer seeds, but regular cucumbers will also work. If using regular cucumbers, you may want to peel them and remove some of the seeds to prevent the salad from becoming watery.

Q3: Can I substitute the feta cheese?

A: Feta is a key ingredient for authentic Greek flavor, but if you need a substitute, you could try halloumi (grilled or crumbled), goat cheese, or even a plant-based feta alternative. Keep in mind that the flavor profile will change slightly.

Q4: What if I don’t like Kalamata olives? Can I use another type of olive?

A: Kalamata olives are traditional in Greek salad, but you can use other briny olives like Nicoise olives or Castelvetrano olives if you prefer. Green olives can also be used, but they will have a different flavor profile. If you really dislike olives, you can omit them altogether, but it will alter the classic Greek taste.

Q5: Can I add protein to make it a main course salad?

A: Absolutely! Grilled chicken, shrimp, chickpeas, or white beans are excellent protein additions to make this salad a more substantial meal. You can also add hard-boiled eggs or grilled halloumi for protein.

Q6: How long does Greek Cucumber Salad last in the refrigerator?

A: Ideally, Greek Cucumber Salad is best enjoyed fresh. However, if you have leftovers, it can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Keep in mind that the cucumbers and tomatoes may lose some of their crispness and the salad might become a bit watery over time. Drain any excess liquid before serving leftovers.

Q7: Can I use dried herbs other than oregano?

A: Dried oregano is the classic herb for Greek salad. However, you can experiment with other dried herbs like thyme or marjoram for a slightly different flavor. A pinch of dried mint can also be a nice addition.

Q8: Is this salad gluten-free and vegetarian?

A: Yes, this Greek Cucumber Salad recipe is naturally gluten-free and vegetarian. It’s made with fresh vegetables, olives, feta cheese, and a simple olive oil and lemon dressing, all of which are gluten-free and vegetarian-friendly. It’s a great option for those with dietary restrictions or preferences.

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