There’s something utterly refreshing about a Mediterranean salad with cucumber, tomato, and onion that makes you feel like you’re sunbathing on a Grecian beach, even if you’re just in your kitchen. Imagine crisp cucumbers crunching between your teeth, juicy tomatoes bursting with flavor, and pungent onions mingling together in perfect harmony. Mediterranean Pasta Salad Each bite transports you to a sunny market where the aromas of fresh produce fill the air, making it impossible not to smile.
Jump to:
- <strong>Essential Ingredients</strong>
- <strong>Let’s Make it together</strong>
- <strong>Perfecting the Cooking Process</strong>
- <strong>Add Your Touch</strong>
- <strong>Storing & Reheating</strong>
- <strong>FAQ</strong>
- What types of tomatoes work best in a Mediterranean salad with cucumber, tomato, and onion?
- Can I add protein to my Mediterranean salad?
- How long does this Mediterranean salad last in the fridge?
- 📖 Recipe Card
This salad isn’t just food; it’s an experience. Whether you’re hosting friends for a backyard barbecue or simply trying to impress someone special with your culinary prowess, this vibrant dish is sure to steal the show. Watermelon Caprese Salad Oh, and did I mention it takes mere minutes to prepare? So grab your chopping board and let’s embark on this delicious journey together!
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- This Mediterranean salad with cucumber, tomato, and onion is incredibly easy to whip up in under 15 minutes
- Its fresh, zesty flavors make it a delightful side or light meal
- The stunning colors of this salad make it visually appealing and Instagram-worthy
- Perfect for summer picnics or as a refreshing dish any time of year!
I distinctly remember the first time I made this Mediterranean salad for a family gathering; my cousins couldn’t get enough of it! For more inspiration, check out this garlic butter green beans recipe.
Essential Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
- Cucumber: Choose firm cucumbers for crunch; English cucumbers have fewer seeds and are perfect for salads.
- Tomatoes: Ripe tomatoes add sweetness; vine-ripened ones are usually the best choice for optimal flavor. For more inspiration, check out this orange sweet rolls recipe.
- Red Onion: A small amount adds sharpness; soak slices in cold water for a milder taste if desired.
- Extra Virgin Olive Oil: Use high-quality oil for robust flavor; it’s ideal for drizzling over salads.
- Lemon Juice: Freshly squeezed juice brightens flavors; bottled lemon juice lacks the same vibrancy.
- Salt and Pepper: Essential for seasoning; use freshly cracked pepper for added depth.
- Fresh Parsley (optional): Chopped parsley adds freshness; feel free to substitute with mint for a twist!
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
Let’s Make it together
**Prep Your Veggies**: Begin by washing all your vegetables under cool running water to remove any dirt or pesticides. Chop the cucumber into bite-sized pieces while reveling in its refreshing crunch.
**Mix It Up**: In a large bowl, toss together the diced tomatoes, sliced red onion, and chopped cucumber. Prepare yourself for an explosion of color as each ingredient blends beautifully.
**Dress It Well**: In a separate small bowl, whisk together olive oil and lemon juice until combined. Drizzle your dressing over the salad mixture generously, letting those flavors mingle like old friends at a reunion.
**Season It Right**: Sprinkle salt and pepper over the salad according to your taste preferences. Give everything a gentle toss to ensure an even coating of seasoning—no one wants bland bites!
**Garnish with Flair**: If using parsley or mint, sprinkle it on top like confetti at a party! This adds freshness and heightens visual appeal.
**Serve and Enjoy**: Your Mediterranean salad with cucumber, tomato, and onion is ready! Serve immediately or let it chill in the fridge for 30 minutes to enhance those flavors even more. Avocado Toast with Tomato.
Now that you’ve successfully crafted this colorful masterpiece and possibly felt like an Iron Chef in your own kitchen, enjoy every delightful bite! The combination of crisp vegetables with tangy dressing will have you dreaming of summer days all year long.
You Must Know
- This Mediterranean salad with cucumber, tomato, and onion is not just a side dish; it’s a colorful celebration of flavors that can brighten any meal
- The crunchiness of fresh veggies combined with zesty dressing will dance on your taste buds
- Perfect for summer picnics or light dinners!
Perfecting the Cooking Process
To achieve the best results, chop all vegetables first, then prepare the dressing while letting the flavors meld. Toss everything together right before serving to maintain freshness.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to swap out ingredients; avocado, feta cheese, or olives can add exciting twists to this classic salad. Experiment with fresh herbs like basil or mint for added flavor.
Storing & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. For best quality, avoid reheating; enjoy it cold for a refreshing bite.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- This Mediterranean salad with cucumber, tomato, and onion shines when using ripe produce
- Don’t skip the salt in your dressing; it enhances natural flavors beautifully
- Make it ahead for parties to let the flavors develop even more!
Creating this salad reminds me of warm summer evenings when my family gathered outside for dinner. Everyone would dig in and share stories, laughter filling the air while crunching on this vibrant dish. Strawberry Chicken Salad.
FAQ
What types of tomatoes work best in a Mediterranean salad with cucumber, tomato, and onion?
Ripe cherry or grape tomatoes bring sweetness and juiciness to your salad.
Can I add protein to my Mediterranean salad?
Absolutely! Grilled chicken or chickpeas are great additions for extra heartiness.
How long does this Mediterranean salad last in the fridge?
This salad stays fresh for about three days when stored properly in an airtight container.
Did You Enjoy Making This Recipe? Please rate this recipe with ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ or leave a comment.
📖 Recipe Card
Print
Refreshing Mediterranean Salad with Cucumber, Tomato, and Onion
- Total Time: 10 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
Description
Experience a taste of the Mediterranean with this vibrant and refreshing salad. Bursting with crisp cucumbers, juicy tomatoes, and sharp red onions, this dish brings the flavors of summer right to your table. Perfect as a side or a light meal, it takes just minutes to prepare, making it an ideal choice for picnics and gatherings. Enjoy the simplicity and freshness of this classic Mediterranean delight.
Ingredients
- 1 medium cucumber, diced
- 2 cups ripe tomatoes (e.g., cherry or vine-ripened), halved
- 1 small red onion, thinly sliced
- 3 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
- 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
- Salt and pepper to taste
- ¼ cup fresh parsley or mint (optional), chopped
Instructions
- Rinse all vegetables under cool running water. Dice the cucumber into bite-sized pieces.
- In a large bowl, combine the diced cucumber, halved tomatoes, and sliced red onion.
- In a separate small bowl, whisk together olive oil and lemon juice. Drizzle over the salad mixture.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste; gently toss to combine.
- Garnish with chopped parsley or mint if desired. Serve immediately or refrigerate for 30 minutes to enhance flavors.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Category: Salad
- Method: Mixing
- Cuisine: Mediterranean
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (150g)
- Calories: 120
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 160mg
- Fat: 9g
- Saturated Fat: 1g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 10g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 2g
- Cholesterol: 0mg