Fresh and Flavorful Mediterranean Salad with Cucumber Tomato and Onion

© Original recipe by Golden Whisk Co. ©

🌿✨ Fresh and Flavorful Mediterranean Salad with Cucumber, Tomato, and Onion 🥗🫒

1. Introduction

If you’re craving a vibrant, healthy salad packed with fresh flavors and crisp textures, then this Mediterranean Salad recipe is a must-try. Combining cool cucumbers, juicy tomatoes, and sharp onions, this Greek salad-inspired dish offers a delicious balance of acidity, sweetness, and crunch. Whether you’re cooking for a quick lunch or a colorful dinner, this salad is versatile and bursting with authentic Mediterranean flavors.

2. Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Ready in 15 minutes: Perfect for busy weeknights or quick gatherings.
• Healthy and light: Loaded with fresh ingredients and healthy fats.
• Full of flavor: Bright citrus dressing and aromatic herbs elevate simple ingredients.
• Vegan & gluten-free options: Naturally free from animal products and grains.
• Highly customizable: Feel free to add olives, feta, or herbs to suit your taste.

3. Ingredient Notes

To craft an authentic healthy salad that truly impresses, quality ingredients matter. Use ripe, vine-ripened tomatoes and crisp, cool cucumbers—preferably organic for the best flavor. For the onions, red onions add a subtle sweetness and vibrant color, but you can substitute with shallots if preferred. Fresh herbs like parsley and mint give the salad an aromatic punch, so choose bright, fragrant bunches from your local market.

The dressing is a simple but essential component. Use extra-virgin olive oil for richness, and a splash of lemon juice or red wine vinegar to add bright acidity. For seasoning, sea salt and freshly ground black pepper will enhance all the flavors. To elevate your salad, consider adding optional ingredients like tangy feta cheese or briny olives.

4. Kitchen Tools You Need

Creating this flavorful Greek salad is effortless with basic kitchen tools. A good compact 6-in-1 digital air fryer can help you prepare crispy toppings or roasted veggies to serve alongside, while a T-fal 14-piece nonstick cookware set will assist in prepping ingredients efficiently.

Moreover, a sharp Breville Nespresso Vertuo espresso & coffee maker could be perfect for refreshing beverages to accompany your meal. For a versatile, stylish stand mixer to incorporate herbs or make accompanying dishes, check out the KitchenAid Artisan 5-Quart Stand Mixer in Scorched Orange.

5. How to Make Fresh and Flavorful Mediterranean Salad with Cucumber, Tomato, and Onion

Prepare the vegetables

Start by washing all the fresh produce thoroughly. Slice the cucumbers into thin rounds or half-moons for a satisfying crunch. Dice the ripe tomatoes, ideally heirloom or cherry varieties for extra sweetness. Thinly slice the red onion, soaking it in ice water for a few minutes if you want a milder flavor and less bite.

Make the dressing

In a small bowl, whisk together ¼ cup of extra-virgin olive oil, the juice of one lemon, and a splash of red wine vinegar if you like a touch of tartness. Season with salt and freshly ground black pepper. For added flavor, toss in freshly chopped herbs like parsley and mint.

Assemble the salad

In a large salad bowl, combine the sliced vegetables and herbs. Drizzle with the dressing and toss gently to coat all ingredients evenly. Let it sit for 10 minutes before serving—this allows flavors to meld beautifully and makes the salad even more aromatic. For a heartier option, sprinkle with crumbled feta or add a few kalamata olives.

6. Expert Tips for Success

• Use the freshest ingredients: They make all the difference in flavor and texture.
• Don’t overdress: A light drizzle is enough. You can always add more dressing if needed.
• Let it marinate: Allow the salad to rest for a few minutes to enhance flavors.
• Chill before serving: Keep the salad in the fridge for 15-30 minutes for a cool, refreshing experience.

7. Variations & Substitutions

If you’re vegan, skip the feta or replace it with seasoned tofu cubes. For low-carb options, omit any bread or grain add-ins. You can add sliced bell peppers or arugula for more variety, or sprinkle with toasted pine nuts for extra crunch. Feel free to substitute with organic ingredients or swap out herbs based on what’s fresh in your garden.

8. Storage & Reheating

This Mediterranean salad is best enjoyed fresh. If you have leftovers, store the components separately in airtight containers to prevent sogginess. The dressing can be kept in a small jar and added just before serving to keep the vegetables crisp. Reheat any optional toppings, like roasted veggies, in your [Ninja Foodi Smart XL Indoor Grill & Air Fryer](https://amzn.to/4qxt7et) for maximum flavor and texture.

9. FAQ

Can I make this salad ahead of time?

Yes! Prepare all ingredients in advance, keep the dressing separate, and assemble right before serving for maximum freshness.

Is this salad gluten-free?

Absolutely! With no bread or gluten-containing ingredients, it’s naturally gluten-free, perfect for those with sensitivities.

Can I add cheese or protein?

Definitely. Crumbled feta adds a creamy tang, and grilled chicken or shrimp can turn this side dish into a full meal.

10. Conclusion

This Fresh and Flavorful Mediterranean Salad with Cucumber, Tomato, and Onion is a celebration of simple, vibrant ingredients that come together effortlessly. Perfect for warm days, picnics, or a light dinner, it offers a burst of authentic flavors with every bite. Embrace the freshness, and don’t hesitate to customize it with your favorite additions. Dive into the nutritious, zesty goodness of this classic Greek salad today!

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