This colorful Mediterranean salad is a fresh mix of crunchy cucumbers, juicy tomatoes, and zesty onions. It’s light, healthy, and perfect for any meal!
I love how quick it is to whip up! Just chop, toss, and enjoy. It’s my go-to side for barbecue days, and it makes me feel like I’m on a sunny Mediterranean holiday! ☀️
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Cucumber: Fresh cucumbers add a cool crunch to the salad. If you don’t have them, try using zucchini for a similar texture, or even bell peppers for a different flavor.
Tomato: Ripe tomatoes are key for sweetness. If they’re out of season, consider using cherry tomatoes or even canned diced tomatoes for convenience.
Red Onion: The red onion gives a nice bite. You can swap it with green onions for milder flavor or use sweet onions for a different taste.
Fresh Parsley: This adds a burst of freshness. If you’re not a fan, swap it with basil or even mint for a unique twist.
Olive Oil: Extra virgin olive oil is ideal for flavor. Canola oil or avocado oil can work, but they won’t have the same richness.
How Do I Get the Best Flavor Balance in My Salad?
To ensure your Mediterranean salad is bursting with flavor, focus on the seasoning and acidity. Here’s how:
- Use fresh lemon juice to brighten flavors. It also helps to marry all the ingredients.
- Drizzle the olive oil evenly and make sure to mix thoroughly for even coating.
- Don’t skip on salt and pepper—start with a little, then adjust to your taste!
- Let the salad sit in the fridge for 10-15 minutes after mixing. This helps the flavors combine beautifully.
Easy Mediterranean Salad with Cucumber, Tomato, and Onion
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 2 cups cucumber, finely diced (about 1 medium cucumber)
- 2 cups tomato, finely diced (about 2 medium tomatoes)
- 1/2 cup red onion, finely diced
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
- 2 tbsp fresh lemon juice
- 2 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
- 1/2 tsp dried oregano
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This easy Mediterranean salad takes about 10 minutes to prepare, plus a quick chill in the fridge for about 15 minutes. So in just a short time, you can have a refreshing and healthy dish ready!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Vegetables:
Start by washing the cucumber and tomatoes thoroughly to remove any dirt. This ensures a fresh taste and clean salad.
2. Dice the Vegetables:
Finely dice the cucumber and tomatoes into small, uniform pieces. This helps in making sure every bite has a bit of everything. Don’t forget to peel and finely dice the red onion as well.
3. Combine in a Mixing Bowl:
Grab a large mixing bowl and add the diced cucumber, tomatoes, and red onion together. This is where all the fresh flavors come together!
4. Add Fresh Ingredients:
Chop your fresh parsley and toss it into the bowl with the other veggies. It adds a wonderful freshness that’s hard to beat!
5. Dress the Salad:
Drizzle the fresh lemon juice and olive oil over the vegetable mixture. These ingredients will elevate the flavors significantly!
6. Season It Up:
Sprinkle on the dried oregano, salt, and freshly ground black pepper. These spices will bring out the Mediterranean essence of the salad.
7. Mix Well:
Gently toss the salad to combine everything thoroughly. Make sure each piece is coated with the dressing and spices.
8. Taste and Adjust:
Now, take a moment to taste your salad. If you’d like more zesty flavor, add a bit more lemon juice, salt, or pepper to suit your taste!
9. Chill Before Serving:
Cover the bowl and refrigerate for about 10-15 minutes. This allows the flavors to meld together beautifully, making every bite even more delicious.
10. Serve and Enjoy:
Once chilled, serve your bright and colorful Mediterranean salad as a refreshing side or light appetizer. Enjoy the burst of flavors!
This salad is not only simple to prepare but also vibrant and healthy. Perfect for meal prep or gatherings!
FAQ
Can I Use Different Vegetables in This Salad?
Absolutely! This salad is quite versatile. You can add bell peppers, radishes, or even olives for extra flavor. Just remember to keep the texture similar by dicing any substitutes into small pieces.
What If I Don’t Have Fresh Lemon Juice?
No worries! If you don’t have fresh lemon juice, you can use bottled lemon juice instead. However, fresh juice provides a brighter flavor, so use it if possible! Alternatively, a splash of vinegar (like red wine vinegar) can also work in a pinch.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover salad in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. Just keep in mind that the cucumber may become a bit soggy as it releases moisture. Give it a quick stir before serving!
Can I Make This Salad Ahead of Time?
You can prepare the salad a few hours in advance. Just remember to add the dressing and seasonings right before serving for the best flavor and freshness. Enjoy the convenience of meal prep!
