1. Prepare the Vegetables:
- Chop and Slice:
- Start by preparing all the vegetables. Peel the cucumbers and slice them into half-moons. Chop the tomatoes into bite-sized pieces. Thinly slice the red onion and chop the bell pepper into small squares.
- Combine in a Bowl:
- In a large salad bowl, combine the sliced cucumbers, chopped tomatoes, sliced red onion, chopped bell pepper, and Kalamata olives.
2. Make the Dressing:
- Whisk the Ingredients:
- In a small bowl or jar, whisk together the olive oil, fresh lemon juice, red wine vinegar, dried oregano, minced garlic, salt, and black pepper until well combined.
- Taste and Adjust:
- Taste the dressing and adjust the seasoning if needed. You can add more lemon juice for extra tang or more oregano for a stronger herb flavor.
3. Assemble the Salad:
- Toss the Salad:
- Pour the dressing over the salad and toss everything together gently, ensuring that all the vegetables are evenly coated with the dressing.
- Add Feta and Parsley:
- Sprinkle the crumbled feta cheese over the top of the salad. If using, add the chopped fresh parsley for an extra pop of color and flavor.
4. Serve the Salad:
- Chill or Serve Immediately:
- You can serve the salad immediately, or let it chill in the refrigerator for about 15-20 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.
- Enjoy:
- Serve this Greek Cucumber and Tomato Salad as a refreshing side dish with grilled meats, seafood, or alongside other Mediterranean dishes like pita bread and hummus.
Conclusion
Greek Cucumber and Tomato Salad is a delightful combination of fresh vegetables, tangy feta, and a zesty dressing that brings everything together. This salad is not only quick and easy to make but also bursting with vibrant flavors that are perfect for warm weather or when you need a light and healthy dish. Whether you’re enjoying it as part of a meal or on its own, this salad is sure to become a favorite in your kitchen!