Cucumber and Feta Salad
A refreshing and crisp salad featuring crunchy cucumbers, juicy cherry tomatoes, and tangy feta cheese. Tossed in a simple lemon-herb vinaigrette, it's a light, healthy side dish ready in minutes.
For 4 servings
Prepare the salad vegetables
- Wash and chop the cucumber, halve the cherry tomatoes, and thinly slice the red onion.
- In a large salad bowl, combine the chopped cucumber, cherry tomatoes, sliced red onion, and the rinsed chickpeas.
Make the lemon vinaigrette
- In a small bowl or a jar with a lid, combine the extra virgin olive oil, fresh lemon juice, and dried oregano.
- Add the salt and black pepper.
- Whisk well or shake the jar until the dressing is emulsified.
Combine and serve
- Pour the vinaigrette over the vegetables in the large bowl and toss gently to coat everything evenly.
- Add the crumbled feta cheese on top and give it one final, gentle toss.
- Serve immediately for the best texture and flavor.
What to keep in mind.
5 tips from the recipe — small details that make a real difference to the final dish.
- 1For a milder onion flavor, soak the sliced red onions in cold water for 10 minutes, then drain well before adding to the salad.
- 2This salad is best served fresh. If making ahead, store the chopped vegetables and dressing separately and combine just before serving.
- 3Use English or Persian cucumbers as they have thinner skin and fewer seeds, so you don't need to peel them.
- 4Feel free to add other vegetables like chopped bell peppers or Kalamata olives for more flavor and crunch.
- 5For an extra layer of freshness, add 2 tablespoons of chopped fresh parsley or mint to the salad.
Adapt it for your goals.
Vegan
Replace feta cheese with a plant-based feta alternative or omit it. You can also add a tablespoon of nutritional yeast to the dressing for a cheesy flavor.
high proteinHigh protein
Double the amount of chickpeas or add 1 cup of cooked quinoa to make it a more substantial meal.
gluten freeGluten free
This recipe is naturally gluten-free. Ensure all packaged ingredients like chickpeas are certified gluten-free if you have a severe allergy.
quickQuick
Use a pre-made lemon vinaigrette to save time on making the dressing from scratch.
Why this is on our healthy list.
Excellent for Hydration
Cucumbers are composed of about 96% water, making this salad a great way to stay hydrated, especially in warmer weather.
Rich in Fiber
The chickpeas in this salad are a great source of dietary fiber, which aids in digestion and helps you feel full and satisfied.
Source of Healthy Fats
Extra virgin olive oil provides heart-healthy monounsaturated fats, which are beneficial for overall cardiovascular health.
Packed with Vitamins
Tomatoes are rich in Vitamin C and antioxidants like lycopene, supporting immune function and protecting cells from damage.
Frequently asked questions
Yes, it's very healthy. It's packed with hydrating cucumbers, fiber-rich chickpeas, and vitamins from tomatoes. The olive oil provides healthy monounsaturated fats, making it a nutritious and balanced side dish.