Description
This refreshing Mediterranean Salad is a simple and flavorful combination of cucumber, tomato, red onion, and fresh cilantro, tossed in a light lemon and olive oil dressing. It’s a perfect side dish or light meal.This refreshing Mediterranean Salad is a simple and flavorful combination of cucumber, tomato, red onion, and fresh cilantro, tossed in a light lemon and olive oil dressing. It’s a perfect side dish or light meal.
Ingredients
Scale
- 1 English cucumber, diced (see notes)
- 2–3 medium tomatoes, diced (see notes)
- 1/2 medium red onion, thinly sliced and diced
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh cilantro (or a combination of cilantro, mint, basil, parsley, and/or dill)
- 3 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
- 1/4 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice
- 1/4 teaspoon salt, or to taste
- Freshly cracked black pepper, to taste
Instructions
- Prepare Vegetables: Dice the cucumber, tomatoes, and red onion. If you prefer a milder onion flavor, soak the diced red onion in cold water for 10-15 minutes, then drain well before adding to the salad.
- Chop Herbs: Finely chop the fresh cilantro (and any other herbs you’re using).
- Combine Salad Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the diced cucumber, diced tomatoes, diced red onion, and chopped herbs.
- Dress Salad: Pour the extra virgin olive oil and fresh lemon juice over the vegetables and herbs.
- Season: Season generously with salt and freshly cracked black pepper.
- Toss to Combine: Toss all the ingredients together until they are evenly coated with the dressing.
- Rest (Optional): Let the salad sit for 10-15 minutes at room temperature to allow the flavors to meld. This step is optional but recommended. You can also serve it lightly chilled.
- Serve
Notes
- Cucumber: English cucumbers are recommended for their thin skin and fewer seeds. If using a regular cucumber, you may want to peel it and remove the seeds.
- Tomatoes: Use ripe, flavorful tomatoes. Roma tomatoes, vine-ripened tomatoes, or cherry tomatoes (halved or quartered) all work well.
- Red Onion: Soaking the diced red onion in cold water for 10-15 minutes helps to mellow its flavor.
- Herbs: Feel free to use any combination of fresh herbs that you like. Cilantro, mint, basil, parsley, and dill all work well in this salad.
- Serving Suggestions: This salad is delicious on its own or as a side dish to grilled meats, fish, or poultry. It’s also great in pita bread or wraps.
- Make-Ahead: You can prepare the vegetables and dressing ahead of time and store them separately in the refrigerator. Toss the salad together just before serving.
- Storage: Store any leftovers for 2-3 days