Savor the burst of flavors in a Simple Tomato Feta Cucumber Salad that dances on your taste buds like it’s auditioning for a Broadway musical. Fresh, juicy tomatoes, crisp cucumbers, and creamy feta come together in a vibrant symphony that would make even your taste buds sing. Imagine sitting in the sun with a plate of this salad in front of you, the aroma wrapping around you like a warm hug—pure bliss! For more inspiration, check out this Amish Country Casserole recipe.
Now, picture this: It’s a hot summer day, and you’re hosting a picnic. The sun is shining, the grill is sizzling, and what’s that? Your friends are eyeing your Simple Tomato Feta Cucumber Salad with envy. This delightful dish not only steals the spotlight but also brings back memories of warm family gatherings where laughter mingles with delicious food. Explore all our delicious recipes Trust me; it’s perfect for those sunny afternoons or as a side dish at any barbecue!
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- This Simple Tomato Feta Cucumber Salad is quick to whip up, making meal prep effortless even for the busiest of days.
- The flavors are fresh and bright, offering a delightful balance of tangy feta and crisp vegetables.
- Visually appealing with its vibrant colors, it’s sure to impress your guests at any gathering.
- Plus, it’s versatile enough to complement any meal or stand proudly on its own!
Ingredients for Simple Tomato Feta Cucumber Salad
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
- Cherry Tomatoes: These little gems add sweetness and juiciness to your salad; opt for plump ones for the best flavor.
- Cucumbers: Choose firm cucumbers for crunch; English cucumbers work wonderfully here as they have fewer seeds.
- Feta Cheese: Crumbled feta adds creaminess and tang; look for high-quality cheese for an authentic flavor boost.
- Red Onion: Thinly sliced red onion provides a zesty bite; soak them in cold water first to mellow out their sharpness.
- Olive Oil: A splash of good quality olive oil enhances flavors; extra virgin olive oil is always a great choice.
- Balsamic Vinegar: For a pop of acidity and depth; choose aged balsamic for richer flavor notes.
- Fresh Herbs (Basil or Parsley): Fresh herbs elevate the dish with aromatic freshness; use whatever you have on hand or prefer!
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 the Vegetables
Start by washing all your veggies thoroughly under cold water. Slice the cherry tomatoes in half and chop your cucumbers into bite-sized pieces—no need for perfection here; we want rustic charm!
Step 2: Slice the Onion
Thinly slice your red onion next. To soften their strong flavor, soak them in cold water while you finish prepping other ingredients.
Step 3: Combine Ingredients
In a large bowl, toss together the halved cherry tomatoes, chopped cucumbers, drained red onions, and crumbled feta cheese.
Step 4: Dress It Up
Drizzle olive oil and balsamic vinegar over your mixture like you’re giving it a luxurious spa treatment. Toss gently until everything is well coated.
Step 5: Add Fresh Herbs
Chop up some fresh basil or parsley (or both), then sprinkle them over the salad like confetti at a party. Give it one last gentle mix.
Step 6: Serve & Enjoy
Transfer the salad to serving bowls or plates and dig in! You can serve it immediately or let it chill in the fridge for about half an hour to let those flavors mingle beautifully.
This Simple Tomato Feta Cucumber Salad isn’t just food; it’s an experience! Perfect as a light lunch or as part of your summer barbeque spread. Enjoy every crunchy bite!
You Must Know
- This Simple Tomato Feta Cucumber Salad is not just a quick dish; it’s a delightful burst of fresh flavors.
- It’s perfect for summer picnics or as a refreshing side at dinner.
- Whip it up in minutes and watch everyone ask for seconds!
Perfecting the Cooking Process
To make the Simple Tomato Feta Cucumber Salad shine, chop the cucumbers and tomatoes first. Crumble the feta next, allowing its creamy texture to blend beautifully with the veggies. Finally, drizzle with olive oil and a squeeze of lemon for that zesty kick.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to customize this salad! Swap in bell peppers for extra crunch, or toss in some olives for a briny twist. Fresh herbs like basil or parsley can elevate the dish even more, making it uniquely yours.
Storing & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to two days. The flavors meld beautifully over time, but avoid reheating; it’s best served cold and fresh for maximum enjoyment.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- Always choose ripe tomatoes; they are the star of this dish.
- Slice cucumbers thinly for maximum crunch, and don’t skimp on the feta – it adds essential flavor.
- Lastly, let the salad sit for 10 minutes before serving to enhance flavor integration.
Sharing my first attempt at this Simple Tomato Feta Cucumber Salad brings back fond memories of summer barbecues where my friends begged me for the recipe after just one bite. Flavorful Grilled Chicken Recipes Peach Caprese Grilled Chicken It’s a crowd-pleaser every time!
FAQs:
What ingredients are needed for a Simple Tomato Feta Cucumber Salad?
To make a Simple Tomato Feta Cucumber Salad, you will need fresh tomatoes, cucumbers, feta cheese, red onion, olive oil, lemon juice, salt, and pepper. Use ripe tomatoes and crunchy cucumbers for the best flavor and texture. You can also add herbs like parsley or basil for an extra layer of taste. This salad is versatile and can be adjusted to suit your preferences or dietary needs.
How do I prepare the Simple Tomato Feta Cucumber Salad?
Preparation of the Simple Tomato Feta Cucumber Salad is quick and easy. Start by washing the tomatoes and cucumbers thoroughly. Chop the tomatoes into bite-sized pieces and slice the cucumbers into rounds or half-moons. Crumble the feta cheese and finely chop the red onion. Combine all these ingredients in a large bowl. Drizzle with olive oil and lemon juice, then season with salt and pepper to taste. Toss gently to combine everything well.
Can I make Simple Tomato Feta Cucumber Salad ahead of time?
Yes, you can make the Simple Tomato Feta Cucumber Salad ahead of time. However, it’s best to add the dressing just before serving to keep the vegetables crisp. If prepared in advance, store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 24 hours. The flavors will meld beautifully over time, but be mindful that cucumbers may become slightly soft if left too long.
What variations can I try with this Simple Tomato Feta Cucumber Salad?
You can easily customize your Simple Tomato Feta Cucumber Salad by adding different ingredients. Consider incorporating olives for a briny kick or bell peppers for added crunch. Avocado can provide creaminess while adding healthy fats. For a spicy touch, sprinkle some red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños. Experimenting with herbs such as mint or dill can also offer unique flavor profiles that elevate your salad experience.
Conclusion for Simple Tomato Feta Cucumber Salad:
In summary, the Simple Tomato Feta Cucumber Salad is a refreshing dish perfect for any meal or occasion. It combines fresh ingredients like ripe tomatoes, crunchy cucumbers, and creamy feta cheese to create a delightful flavor profile. By preparing this salad quickly and easily, you can enjoy a nutritious side dish that complements various cuisines. Customize it with additional ingredients to suit your taste preferences while keeping it simple yet delicious! For more inspiration, check out this Baked Apples with Feta recipe.
Simple Tomato Feta Cucumber Salad
- Total Time: 15 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
Description
Savor the freshness of summer with this Simple Tomato Feta Cucumber Salad. This vibrant dish features juicy cherry tomatoes, crisp cucumbers, and tangy feta cheese, creating a delightful combination that’s perfect for picnics or as a refreshing side at any gathering. Each bite offers a satisfying crunch that captures the essence of sunny days. Enjoy it chilled or at room temperature for an effortless addition to your meal!
Ingredients
- 2 cups cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 large cucumber, diced
- 1 cup crumbled feta cheese
- 1/4 medium red onion, thinly sliced
- 2 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
- 1 tbsp balsamic vinegar
- 1/4 cup fresh basil or parsley, chopped
Instructions
- Wash all vegetables under cold water. Halve the cherry tomatoes and dice the cucumber into bite-sized pieces.
- Thinly slice the red onion and soak it in cold water to mellow the flavor.
- In a large bowl, combine cherry tomatoes, cucumber, drained red onions, and crumbled feta.
- Drizzle with olive oil and balsamic vinegar; toss gently to coat.
- Add chopped fresh herbs and mix well.
- Serve immediately or chill in the fridge for about 30 minutes to enhance flavors.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Category: Salad
- Method: No cooking required
- Cuisine: Mediterranean
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (150g)
- Calories: 180
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 300mg
- Fat: 12g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 10g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 6g
- Cholesterol: 20mg
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