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Glass bowl of Mediterranean cucumber tomato salad with fresh herbs and wooden serving tongs.
Lindsay Lehrer

Easy Mediterranean Cucumber and Tomato Salad

A fresh, quick, and versatile salad made with cucumbers, tomatoes, onions, parsley, and a simple vinaigrette. Perfect as a side dish, snack, or light lunch.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Total Time 10 minutes
Servings: 6
Course: Salad, Side Dish
Cuisine: Mediterranean, Middle Eastern
Calories: 120
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 2 cucumbers diced
  • 3 tomatoes diced or sliced
  • ½ red onion thinly sliced
  • ¼ cup parsley chopped
  • 3 tablespoon olive oil
  • 2 tablespoon red wine vinegar or balsamic
  • ½ teaspoon garlic powder
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Optional: feta cheese dried oregano, sumac, croutons

Equipment

  • Knife
  • cutting board
  • Mixing Bowls 
  • Whisk

Method
 

  1. Dice cucumbers and tomatoes. Slice onion and chop parsley.
  2. In a small bowl, whisk olive oil, vinegar, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
  3. Toss vegetables with dressing in a large bowl.
  4. Add feta or croutons if desired. Serve immediately or chill for 30 minutes.

Notes

  • Tomatoes: Use the ripest tomatoes you can find for the best flavor. Cherry or grape tomatoes are great if you want a sweeter bite.
  • Cucumbers: English or Persian cucumbers work best since they’re less watery, but regular cucumbers are fine too (just peel if the skin is tough).
  • Herbs: Parsley is classic, but basil or cilantro give the salad a whole new twist. Fresh dill also works beautifully.
  • Dressing: Red wine vinegar adds tang, while balsamic gives a sweeter depth of flavor. You can even use lemon juice for extra freshness.
  • Cheese: If you’re adding feta, crumble it in right before serving so it stays firm and doesn’t melt into the dressing.
  • Make Ahead: If making in advance, store the dressing separately and toss right before serving to avoid soggy veggies.
  • Lunchbox Tip: Pack this salad in a leakproof container for kids’ lunches. Keep croutons or bread cubes on the side so they stay crunchy.
  • Serving Ideas: This salad pairs beautifully with grilled chicken, salmon, or alongside Mediterranean dishes like hummus and pita.