Mediterranean Cucumber Salad Recipe
This Mediterranean Cucumber Salad is a refreshing, light dish perfect for summer meals, picnics, or as an appetizer for a Mediterranean-inspired spread. The fresh, vibrant ingredients are combined into a simple yet flavorful salad, with crisp cucumbers, juicy tomatoes, and aromatic herbs, all complemented by extra virgin olive oil, lemon juice, and black pepper. Itβs a delightful combination that bursts with freshness, offering a healthy and satisfying option for vegetarians and anyone looking for a nutritious side dish.
Ingredients:
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Cucumber | 1, chopped |
| Tomato | 1, chopped |
| Onion | 1, finely chopped |
| Mint Leaves (Pudina) | 3 tablespoons, finely chopped |
| Coriander (Dhania) Leaves | 2 tablespoons, finely chopped |
| Extra Virgin Olive Oil | 1/2 cup |
| Salt | To taste |
| Lemon Juice | 1/4 cup |
| Black Pepper Powder | 1 teaspoon |
Preparation Time:
| Task | Time |
|---|---|
| Preparation Time | 20 mins |
| Cooking Time | 0 mins |
| Total Time | 20 mins |
Servings:
| Servings | 4 |
Cuisine & Diet:
| Cuisine | Mediterranean |
|---|---|
| Diet | Vegetarian |
| Course | Appetizer |
Instructions:
-
Prepare the Cucumber:
- Begin by slitting the cucumber lengthwise and scooping out the seeds. You do not need to peel the skin of the cucumber, as it adds texture and nutrients to the dish. Once the seeds are removed, chop the cucumber into small, bite-sized pieces.
-
Prepare the Tomato and Onion:
- Cut the tomato in half and remove the seeds. Then finely chop the tomato into small pieces.
- Peel and finely chop the onion to add a bit of sharpness to balance the flavors.
-
Combine the Ingredients:
- In a large mixing bowl, add the chopped cucumber, tomato, and onion.
- Add the finely chopped mint leaves and coriander leaves to the mix, as their fresh, herby flavors will enhance the saladβs Mediterranean appeal.
-
Dress the Salad:
- Pour in the extra virgin olive oil, salt, lemon juice, and black pepper powder. The olive oil adds richness, while the lemon juice brings a fresh tang to the salad.
-
Mix and Chill:
- Toss everything together gently to combine the ingredients thoroughly. Make sure the dressing is evenly distributed across the vegetables and herbs.
- Cover the bowl with a plastic wrap and place it in the fridge for about 1 to 2 hours. This chilling time allows the flavors to meld together and ensures a refreshing, cool salad.
-
Serve:
- Once chilled, remove the Mediterranean Cucumber Salad from the fridge. Serve immediately as a fresh, light appetizer.
Serving Suggestions:
This Mediterranean Cucumber Salad pairs beautifully with traditional Middle Eastern dishes like Mujaddara (Middle Eastern rice and lentils) for a complete and satisfying meal. For dessert, end your meal on a sweet note with a Mascarpone Fruit Dessert to balance the fresh, savory flavors of the salad.
Nutritional Information (per serving):
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 160 |
| Fat | 14 g |
| Carbohydrates | 10 g |
| Fiber | 2 g |
| Protein | 1 g |
| Sodium | 180 mg |
| Sugar | 4 g |
This Mediterranean Cucumber Salad is not only quick to prepare but also packed with healthy ingredients like fresh vegetables, herbs, and extra virgin olive oil. Itβs perfect for those looking for a light, nutritious, and satisfying dish to enjoy as a side or appetizer. The combination of mint, coriander, and lemon juice gives it an authentic Mediterranean taste that will surely delight your taste buds!
