It’s a sunny afternoon, and the aroma of fresh tomatoes and herbs dances through the air as I prepare my Simple Tomato Feta Cucumber Salad. Imagine biting into juicy, ripe tomatoes with just the right amount of tangy feta, all while cool cucumber slices add a refreshing crunch. another refreshing cucumber salad This salad isn’t just a dish; it’s an experience that celebrates summer on a plate.
I remember the first time I made this delightful salad at a family picnic. My Aunt Gertrude brought her infamous potato salad (read: it was infamous for being left untouched). As everyone had their forks poised over her creation, I unveiled my Simple Tomato Feta Cucumber Salad. Just like that, the potato salad became wallpaper, and my salad stole the show. Perfect for outdoor gatherings or cozy dinners at home, this vibrant dish will make you feel like a culinary superstar. For more inspiration, check out this Amish country casserole recipe.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- This simple tomato feta cucumber salad is incredibly easy to whip up in less than 15 minutes.
- The flavor combination of sweet tomatoes, salty feta, and crunchy cucumbers creates a refreshing taste explosion.
- It’s visually stunning with its bright colors, making it an instant centerpiece on any table.
- Plus, it’s versatile enough to serve as a main dish or side for any meal!
Ingredients for Simple Tomato Feta Cucumber Salad
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
- Ripe Tomatoes: Choose plump tomatoes for sweetness; heirloom varieties work wonderfully in this salad.
- Cucumber: Opt for English cucumbers for their crisp texture and thin skin—no peeling required!
- Feta Cheese: Crumbled feta adds a salty kick; look for high-quality Greek feta when possible.
- Red Onion: Thinly sliced red onion provides a mild bite that complements the other flavors beautifully.
- Fresh Parsley: Chopped parsley brings freshness and color; you can substitute with basil if desired.
- Extra Virgin Olive Oil: A drizzle of good olive oil enhances the flavors—choose one you love!
- Balsamic Vinegar: This adds depth; you can adjust to taste based on your preference.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
How to Make Simple Tomato Feta Cucumber Salad
Follow these simple steps to prepare this delicious dish:
Step 1: Prepare Your Ingredients
Start by washing your tomatoes and cucumber under cold water. Slice the tomatoes into wedges or cubes according to your preference. For the cucumber, cut it into half-moons or rounds to give some variety in texture.
Step 2: Chop the Vegetables
Once your base is ready, grab your sharpest knife and thinly slice the red onion. You want it to be delicate enough that it won’t leave your guests with onion breath after one bite!
Step 3: Combine Everything
In a large bowl, toss together the chopped tomatoes, cucumber slices, red onion, crumbled feta cheese, and chopped parsley. Use gentle hands here—no one wants mushy vegetables!
Step 4: Dress It Up
Drizzle extra virgin olive oil and balsamic vinegar over your colorful medley. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Toss everything gently until well combined; let those beautiful flavors mingle like old friends at a reunion.
Step 5: Chill (Optional)
For optimal flavor blending, let your salad sit in the fridge for about 15-30 minutes before serving. If you’re short on time (or hungry), feel free to skip this step!
Step 6: Serve & Enjoy
Transfer your Simple Tomato Feta Cucumber Salad onto plates and maybe sprinkle some extra parsley on top for flair. Serve it alongside grilled chicken or enjoy it solo as a refreshing lunch!
With each bite of this salad bursting with juicy tomatoes, crunchy cucumbers, tangy feta cheese, and herbaceous parsley goodness—you’ll wonder why you didn’t make it sooner!
You Must Know
- This vibrant Simple Tomato Feta Cucumber Salad is not just a dish; it’s a summer celebration on your plate.
- Fresh ingredients come together effortlessly, making this salad perfect for any meal.
- It’s healthy, colorful, and guaranteed to impress your guests without breaking a sweat.
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Start by chopping the tomatoes and cucumbers while crumbling the feta cheese. Combine all the ingredients in a large bowl, drizzle with olive oil and vinegar, then toss gently. Let it sit for about 15 minutes to meld those delightful flavors.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to swap out the cucumbers for bell peppers or add olives for an extra Mediterranean flair. A splash of lemon juice or fresh herbs like basil can elevate the flavor profile even further. Make it your own!
Storing & Reheating
To keep your Simple Tomato Feta Cucumber Salad fresh, store it in an airtight container in the fridge. Enjoy within two days for optimal freshness. No reheating needed; it’s best served cold! For more inspiration, check out this baked apples with feta recipe.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- To prevent sogginess, add salt to cucumbers only before serving; it draws moisture out quickly.
- Use high-quality feta cheese for creaminess that elevates the entire dish.
- Experiment with different oils like avocado or flavored olive oils to enhance taste.
Sharing this salad recipe reminds me of that sunny picnic last summer when I made it for my friends. The laughter and compliments flowed as freely as the lemonade!
FAQs:
What ingredients do I need for a Simple Tomato Feta Cucumber Salad?
To make a Simple Tomato Feta Cucumber Salad, gather fresh tomatoes, crisp cucumbers, creamy feta cheese, red onion, and fresh herbs like parsley or basil. You will also need olive oil, lemon juice, salt, and pepper for dressing. dressing for your salads This combination creates a refreshing salad that can be prepared in just a few minutes. Using high-quality ingredients will enhance the flavors and ensure your salad stands out.
How can I customize my Simple Tomato Feta Cucumber Salad?
You can easily customize your Simple Tomato Feta Cucumber Salad by adding other ingredients like bell peppers, olives, or avocado for extra flavor and texture. Consider incorporating grains such as quinoa or couscous to make it more filling. Adjust the herbs based on your preference; dill or mint can add a unique twist. The salad is versatile, allowing you to create variations that suit your taste.
How long can I store my Simple Tomato Feta Cucumber Salad?
Your Simple Tomato Feta Cucumber Salad can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. However, it’s best enjoyed fresh to maintain the crunchiness of the cucumbers and the creaminess of the feta. If you plan to make it ahead of time, consider keeping the dressing separate until you’re ready to serve to prevent sogginess.
Can I serve Simple Tomato Feta Cucumber Salad as a main dish?
Absolutely! While typically served as a side dish, you can enjoy Simple Tomato Feta Cucumber Salad as a light main course. Pair it with grilled chicken or fish for added protein or serve it alongside crusty bread for a complete meal. It’s perfect for warm weather lunches or dinners, making it both satisfying and healthy.
Conclusion for Simple Tomato Feta Cucumber Salad:
In summary, the Simple Tomato Feta Cucumber Salad is an easy-to-make dish that bursts with fresh flavors. With just a handful of ingredients, you can create a vibrant salad that’s perfect for any occasion. Customize it to fit your preferences while keeping its refreshing essence intact. perfect brunch pairing Whether served as a side or main dish, this salad is sure to impress your family and friends. Enjoy this delightful recipe at your next gathering!
Simple Tomato Feta Cucumber Salad
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Total Time: 10 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
- Category: Salad
- Method: No cooking required
- Cuisine: Mediterranean
Description
Savor the essence of summer with this Simple Tomato Feta Cucumber Salad. Bursting with juicy tomatoes, crunchy cucumbers, and tangy feta, this refreshing dish can be prepared in just 15 minutes. Perfect for picnics, barbecues, or light lunches, it offers a delightful blend of flavors and vibrant colors that will impress your family and friends while keeping your meal healthy.
Ingredients
- 2 cups ripe tomatoes (diced)
- 1 cup English cucumber (sliced)
- 1 cup crumbled feta cheese
- 1/4 cup red onion (thinly sliced)
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley (chopped)
- 2 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
- 1 tbsp balsamic vinegar
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Wash and dice the tomatoes into bite-sized pieces. Slice the cucumber into half-moons or rounds.
- Thinly slice the red onion.
- In a large bowl, combine the diced tomatoes, cucumber slices, sliced red onion, crumbled feta cheese, and chopped parsley.
- Drizzle olive oil and balsamic vinegar over the salad; season with salt and pepper to taste. Gently toss to combine.
- For enhanced flavor, chill in the refrigerator for 15-30 minutes before serving if desired.
- Serve chilled as a side dish or light main course.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (150g)
- Calories: 220
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 450mg
- Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 12g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 7g
- Cholesterol: 20mg
Keywords: To keep cucumbers crisp, add salt just before serving. Feel free to customize by adding bell peppers or olives for extra flavor. This salad pairs wonderfully with grilled meats or can be enjoyed on its own.
