Mediterranean Cucumber Salad Recipe
A refreshing and vibrant addition to your Mediterranean-inspired meals, the Mediterranean Cucumber Salad offers a light, crisp, and flavorful side dish that pairs perfectly with a variety of main courses. With its chilled, fresh ingredients, this salad is filled with aromatic herbs and a tangy dressing that will leave your taste buds craving more. A must-try for anyone looking to explore the fresh flavors of the Mediterranean, this salad will quickly become a favorite on your table.
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Cucumber (chopped) | 1 medium cucumber |
| Tomato (chopped) | 1 medium tomato |
| Onion (finely chopped) | 1 small onion |
| Mint Leaves (Pudina, finely chopped) | 3 tablespoons |
| Coriander Leaves (Dhania, finely chopped) | 2 tablespoons |
| Extra Virgin Olive Oil | 1/2 cup |
| Salt | To taste |
| Lemon Juice | 1/4 cup |
| Black Pepper Powder | 1 teaspoon |
Preparation Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 0 minutes
Servings: 4–6
Allergen Information
This Mediterranean Cucumber Salad is naturally free of gluten, dairy, and nuts, making it an excellent option for a wide variety of dietary preferences. However, those with sensitivities to certain spices or herbs should note the inclusion of mint and coriander, which may cause mild reactions in some individuals. Always check ingredient labels to ensure that the extra virgin olive oil and other ingredients used are free from any hidden allergens.
Dietary Preferences
- Vegetarian: This recipe is entirely plant-based and free of animal products, making it suitable for vegetarians.
- Gluten-Free: No gluten-containing ingredients are used, so this salad is safe for those with gluten intolerance or celiac disease.
- Dairy-Free: The salad contains no dairy, making it a great option for those avoiding milk products.
- Vegan: As there are no animal-based ingredients in this recipe, it is also vegan-friendly.
Instructions
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Prepare the Cucumber: Begin by cutting the cucumber in half lengthwise. Use a spoon to remove the seeds, ensuring that the cucumber remains crisp and crunchy. There is no need to peel the skin; simply chop the cucumber into small, bite-sized pieces.
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Prepare the Tomato: Similarly, cut the tomato in half and scoop out the seeds. Then, finely chop the tomato into small pieces to blend well with the cucumber and onion.
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Prepare the Onion: Finely chop the onion, ensuring the pieces are small enough to blend seamlessly into the salad mixture.
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Combine the Vegetables: In a large mixing bowl, combine the chopped cucumber, tomato, and onion. Toss them together gently to mix the ingredients evenly.
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Add Fresh Herbs and Seasonings: Add the finely chopped mint leaves and coriander leaves to the mixture. Drizzle in the extra virgin olive oil, and squeeze the fresh lemon juice over the salad. Season with salt and black pepper to taste.
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Chill the Salad: Mix everything thoroughly to combine. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate the salad for about 1 to 2 hours to allow the flavors to meld and chill.
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Serve: Once chilled, give the salad a quick toss to redistribute any settled ingredients and serve it cold as a refreshing side dish.
Serving Suggestions
The Mediterranean Cucumber Salad is a versatile side dish that pairs wonderfully with various Mediterranean mains. For a complete meal, try serving it alongside a Mujaddara Recipe (Traditional Middle Eastern Rice) and finish with a Mascarpone Fruit Dessert Recipe for a light, delicious, and satisfying weekend dinner.
Conclusion
This Mediterranean Cucumber Salad is a must-have addition to any Mediterranean meal. It brings together fresh ingredients and bold flavors to create a dish that’s both nourishing and refreshing. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or preparing a simple weeknight meal, this salad is sure to become a staple in your recipe collection. Quick to prepare, healthy, and full of zest, it’s the perfect side dish to complement a variety of entrees while keeping things light and satisfying.
