Mediterranean Cucumber and Tomato Salad Recipe
Introduction
Welcome to our Mediterranean Cucumber and Tomato Salad Recipe! This refreshing and healthy salad is perfect for those hot summer days when you want something light and flavorful. Packed with fresh vegetables and herbs, this salad is not only delicious but also a great way to incorporate more nutrients into your diet.
Ingredients
For this Mediterranean Cucumber and Tomato Salad Recipe, you will need the following ingredients:
Salad:
– 2 cucumbers, diced
– 4 tomatoes, diced
– 1 red onion, thinly sliced
– 1 bell pepper, diced
– 1/2 cup Kalamata olives, pitted and halved
– 1/2 cup feta cheese, crumbled
Dressing:
– 1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil
– 2 tablespoons red wine vinegar
– 1 clove garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon dried oregano
– Salt and pepper to taste
Steps
Follow these steps to make the Mediterranean Cucumber and Tomato Salad:
Step 1: Prepare the Vegetables
Start by washing and chopping the cucumbers, tomatoes, red onion, and bell pepper. Place them in a large bowl.
Step 2: Add the Olives and Feta Cheese
Next, add the Kalamata olives and crumbled feta cheese to the bowl with the vegetables.
Step 3: Make the Dressing
In a separate small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, red wine vinegar, minced garlic, dried oregano, salt, and pepper.
Step 4: Combine Everything
Pour the dressing over the vegetables, olives, and feta cheese. Gently toss everything together until well coated.
Step 5: Let it Marinate
Cover the bowl and refrigerate the salad for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.
Step 6: Serve and Enjoy
Once chilled, give the salad a final toss and serve it as a refreshing side dish or a light lunch. Enjoy!
Variations
This Mediterranean Cucumber and Tomato Salad Recipe is versatile, and you can make some variations to suit your taste:
– Add some diced avocado for extra creaminess.
– Sprinkle some chopped fresh herbs like parsley or dill for added freshness.
– Substitute the feta cheese with goat cheese or mozzarella.
Tips
Here are some tips to make the most out of your Mediterranean Cucumber and Tomato Salad:
– Use ripe and juicy tomatoes for the best flavor.
– If you prefer a tangier dressing, add a squeeze of fresh lemon juice.
– Allow the salad to marinate for longer for even more intense flavors.
– Feel free to adjust the quantities of the ingredients to your liking.
Conclusion
In conclusion, our Mediterranean Cucumber and Tomato Salad Recipe is a refreshing and healthy way to enjoy the flavors of the Mediterranean. With its combination of fresh vegetables, olives, and feta cheese, this salad is bursting with flavor and nutrients. Whether as a side dish or a light lunch, this salad is sure to impress your taste buds and leave you feeling satisfied.
FAQs
Q: Can I make this salad in advance?
A: Yes, you can make this salad a few hours ahead of time and refrigerate it until serving. Just make sure to give it a good toss before serving to redistribute the dressing.
Q: Can I add protein to this salad?
A: Absolutely! You can add grilled chicken, shrimp, or chickpeas to make it a more substantial meal.
Q: Can I use other types of olives?
A: Yes, you can use other olives like green olives or a mix of different olives for a variety of flavors.