Fresh Tomato Cucumber with Feta Salad
Introducing our Fresh Tomato Cucumber Salad with Feta – a vibrant blend of summer’s finest produce! Imagine juicy tomatoes, crisp cucumbers, and tangy red onions tossed together, then enhanced with creamy feta and a zesty vinaigrette. This refreshing salad is not just a side dish; it’s a burst of Mediterranean flavors in every bite, perfect for light lunches, picnics, or as a bright complement to your favorite grilled meats. Simple to make yet bursting with flavor, this salad is sure to become your go-to for sunny days and gatherings.
INGREDIENTS YOU’LL NEED:
- 1 English Cucumber (sliced): English cucumbers have a thin skin, crisp texture, and a refreshing crunch.
- 20 ounces Grape Tomatoes (halved): These small, sweet grape tomatoes burst with flavor, bringing a juicy contrast to the salad.
- 1 Red Onion (thinly sliced): Thinly sliced red onion provides a mild, tangy bite that complements the sweetness of tomatoes.
- ½ cup Feta Cheese (crumbled): Feta cheese offers a creamy and salty flavor.
- 3 tablespoons Olive Oil: Smooth and fruity olive oil forms the base of the dressing.
- 3 tablespoons Red Wine Vinegar: Adds a tangy acidity that balances the sweetness of the vegetables and cheese.
- 1 teaspoon Dill (dried): Brings a subtle herbaceous aroma to the dressing, complementing the salad’s flavors.
- 1 teaspoon Honey: Natural sweetness that rounds out the dressing, adding depth to the flavors.
- ¼ cup Fresh Parsley (chopped): Fresh parsley, chopped finely, adds a burst of green color and a refreshing taste to the salad.
- Salt and Black Pepper (to taste): Adjust seasoning with salt and black pepper to enhance the overall flavor of the salad.
TOMATO CUCUMBER FETA SALAD IS A FAMILY FAVORITE
- Refreshing Flavors: The blend of juicy tomatoes, crisp cucumber, and tangy feta cheese offers a refreshing and satisfying taste that appeals to all.
- Versatility: This salad complements a variety of dishes, from grilled meats to sandwiches, making it a versatile addition to any meal.
- Simple to Make: With straightforward ingredients and a quick homemade vinaigrette dressing, it’s easy to whip up, perfect for both busy weeknights and relaxed family gatherings.
Time needed: 20 minutes
- Prepare Vegetables:
Slice the cucumber into thin rounds or half-moons. Halve the grape tomatoes. Thinly slice the red onion.
- Make the Dressing:
In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, red wine vinegar, dried dill, honey, chopped parsley, salt, and black pepper until well combined. - Combine Ingredients:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the sliced cucumber, halved grape tomatoes, and thinly sliced red onion.
Sprinkle the crumbled feta cheese over the vegetables.
Drizzle the prepared dressing over the salad ingredients. - Toss Gently:
Using salad tongs or two large spoons, gently toss the salad until all ingredients are evenly coated with the dressing.
For best flavor, refrigerate the salad for about 15-30 minutes before serving to allow the flavors to meld. - Serve:
Transfer the salad to a serving bowl or individual plates. Garnish with additional parsley if desired. Enjoy your fresh and flavorful Tomato Cucumber with Feta Salad!
FAQ – FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS:
Yes, you can prepare the vinaigrette ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator. Just give it a good shake or stir before dressing the salad.
It’s generally not necessary to peel English cucumbers, as their skin is tender and edible. However, if you prefer a smoother texture or if the skin is tough, you can peel it.
To prevent the salad from becoming watery, you can salt the cucumbers and tomatoes lightly before assembling the salad. Let them sit for a few minutes, then pat them dry with a paper towel before adding the vinaigrette.
The base ingredients of tomato, cucumber, and red onion are vegan-friendly. To make it vegan, simply omit the feta cheese and add dairy-free alternative. Also omit the honey and add agave necture or maple syrup.
FRESH TOMATO SALAD RECIPE SUBSTITUTIONS AND VARIATIONS:
- Different Types of Tomatoes: Consider using heirloom tomatoes for a variety of colors and flavors, or opt for cherry tomatoes for their bite-sized sweetness.
- Cheese Variations: You can substitute feta with goat cheese or fresh mozzarella, or try grated Parmesan or pecorino for a sharper flavor.
- Herb Additions: Mix in fresh basil, mint, or cilantro for added freshness, or try dill or parsley they really do brighten up the salad.
- Vinaigrette Options: Use balsamic vinegar instead of red wine vinegar, or experiment with lemon juice for a citrusy twist.
- Additional Vegetables: Add bell peppers or cucumbers for extra crunch and color, or include red onion slices for a touch of sharpness.
- Protein Additions: Toss in grilled chicken or shrimp for a heartier salad, or top with canned tuna or chickpeas for a vegetarian protein source.
- Grain or Pasta Base: Serve over a bed of quinoa or couscous for a more substantial dish, or mix with cooked pasta for a refreshing pasta salad.
WHAT IS COMMONLY SERVED WITH TOMATO CUCUMBER SALAD?
A tomato cucumber salad is a versatile side dish that enhances many meals with its fresh and tangy flavors. It’s commonly enjoyed alongside grilled meats like chicken, steak, or lamb, offering a refreshing contrast to their savory tastes. This salad is a favorite at barbecues and picnics, where its vibrant colors and crisp textures brighten up the table. It also complements sandwiches and mezze platters, providing a cool and satisfying bite that balances richer or spicier dishes. Its simplicity and deliciousness make it a go-to choice for summer dining, perfect for adding a burst of flavor to any meal.
HOW DO YOU STORE LEFTOVER CUCUMBER SALAD FOR LATER CONSUMPTION?
To keep leftover tomato cucumber salad fresh, store it in an airtight container or a sealed bag. It’s best to refrigerate it within two hours of making to maintain its crispness and flavors. The salad can usually stay good in the fridge for 2-3 days. Just give it a gentle stir before serving again to ensure all the ingredients are evenly coated with the dressing and ready to enjoy.
LOOKING FOR MORE SALAD RECIPES? TRY THESE!
Trader Joe’s Broccoli Slaw Salad with Kale Recipe: This recipe offers many textures and tastes, marrying the crisp broccoli slaw and hearty kale with a cilantro lime-marinated chicken.
Tropical Smoothie Cafe Kale Apple Slaw Salad: This refreshing medley of crisp kale, sweet apples, and crunchy slaw offers a delightful symphony of flavors and textures that will tantalize your taste buds.
Creamy Red Cabbage Slaw with Bacon Salad: This recipe is a symphony of colors and textures, bringing together the robust crunch of kale and red cabbage with the delightful sweetness of dried cranberries and the smoky richness of bacon bits.
Fresh Tomato Cucumber with Feta Salad
Ingredients
- 1 Cucumber (english)
- 20 ounces Grape Tomatoes (halved)
- 1 Red Onion (thinly sliced)
- ½ Cup Feta Cheese (crumbled)
Dressing:
- 3 Tbsp Olive Oil
- 3 Tbsp Red Wine Vinegar
- 1 Tsp Dill (dried)
- 1 Tsp Honey
- ¼ Cup Fresh Parsley (chopped)
- Salt and Black Pepper (to taste)
Instructions
- Prepare Vegetables: Slice the cucumber into thin rounds or half-moons. Halve the grape tomatoes. Thinly slice the red onion.
- Make the Dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, red wine vinegar, dried dill, honey, chopped parsley, salt, and black pepper until well combined.
- Combine Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the sliced cucumber, halved grape tomatoes, and thinly sliced red onion.
- Add Feta: Sprinkle the crumbled feta cheese over the vegetables.
- Dress the Salad: Drizzle the prepared dressing over the salad ingredients.
- Toss Gently: Using salad tongs or two large spoons, gently toss the salad until all ingredients are evenly coated with the dressing.
- Chill (Optional): For best flavor, refrigerate the salad for about 15-30 minutes before serving to allow the flavors to meld.
- Serve: Transfer the salad to a serving bowl or individual plates. Garnish with additional parsley if desired. Enjoy your fresh and flavorful Tomato Cucumber with Feta Salad!