This bright and fresh Mediterranean salad is bursting with colorful veggies! You’ll love the crisp cucumber, juicy tomato, and zesty onion that come together in a bowl.
It’s perfect for a light lunch or a side dish at dinner. Whenever I make it, I can’t help but munch on it while preparing. Who can resist such a tasty and healthy mix? 😄
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Cucumbers: Fresh cucumbers are crucial for that crisp texture. If you can’t find them or want a change, try using zucchini or bell peppers.
Tomatoes: Use ripe tomatoes for the best flavor. Any variety works, but I love using cherry tomatoes for a sweeter bite. You can substitute with canned tomatoes, but fresh is best.
Red Onion: Red onions add a mild sweetness. If they’re too strong for you, use green onions or shallots instead. You can soak them in water for a bit to tame their flavor.
Fresh Herbs: Parsley is traditional, but I recommend adding mint for an extra refreshing taste. If you don’t have fresh herbs, dried versions can work, but use less as they’re more concentrated.
Olive Oil: A good quality extra virgin olive oil enriches the salad. If you’re out, you can use canola or avocado oil as milder substitutes.
How Do You Properly Combine Ingredients for Maximum Flavor?
When combining the ingredients, it’s important to gently mix them to preserve their textures. Start by mixing the cucumbers, tomatoes, and onion first, then add the herbs.
- For a well-rounded dressing, whisk lemon juice with olive oil then season with salt and pepper.
- Drizzle the dressing over the salad and toss to coat evenly. Make sure not to mash the vegetables.
- Let it sit for about 10 minutes before serving. It allows flavors to meld beautifully!
How to Make Mediterranean Salad with Cucumber, Tomato, and Onion
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Fresh Vegetables:
- 2 large cucumbers, diced
- 3 large tomatoes, diced
- 1 small red onion, finely chopped
Herbs:
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
- 1/4 cup fresh mint, chopped (optional)
For the Dressing:
- Juice of 1 lemon
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This Mediterranean salad takes about 15 minutes to prepare. You’ll spend a few minutes dicing and chopping the ingredients, mixing them, and whisking the dressing. It’s super quick and makes for a refreshing side!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Combine the Veggies:
Start by grabbing a large bowl. Add the diced cucumbers, diced tomatoes, and finely chopped red onion to the bowl. This colorful base is what makes your salad fresh and tasty!
2. Add the Fresh Herbs:
Next, sprinkle in the chopped parsley and mint, if you choose to use it. Gently mix everything together with a spoon so that all the veggies and herbs are nicely combined.
3. Whisk the Dressing:
In a separate small bowl, get your dressing ready by whisking together the lemon juice, olive oil, salt, pepper, and dried oregano (if you like). This tangy dressing will add a delicious flavor to your salad!
4. Dress the Salad:
Pour the dressing over the salad mixture and toss everything well. Make sure all the vegetables are evenly coated with the dressing.
5. Taste and Adjust:
Give your salad a taste! If you think it needs more seasoning, feel free to add a little more salt or pepper. For the best flavor, you can let the salad sit for about 10 minutes. This helps all the ingredients blend beautifully!
6. Serve and Enjoy:
Your Mediterranean salad is now ready to be enjoyed! Serve it chilled or at room temperature as a refreshing side dish. Enjoy every delicious bite!
Can I Use Different Types of Tomatoes?
Absolutely! While any type of fresh tomato works, Roma or heirloom tomatoes typically offer great flavor. If you prefer a sweeter option, cherry tomatoes can be a delightful addition as well. Just make sure they are ripe for the best taste!
How to Store Leftover Salad?
Leftover Mediterranean salad can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. The cucumbers may lose some crunchiness, so to keep it fresh, store the dressing separately and mix it in just before serving!
Can I Add Other Vegetables to This Salad?
Of course! Feel free to customize your salad with ingredients like bell peppers, radishes, or even olives for an extra kick. Just remember to dice them uniformly for even mixing and presentation.
Is There a Substitute for Olive Oil?
If you’re looking for an alternative to olive oil, avocado oil or a mild vegetable oil works well in this recipe. However, keep in mind that using a different oil may slightly alter the flavor profile, so choose one that complements the salad!
