Simple Mediterranean Cucumber Salad

When warm weather arrives, I start craving lighter meals packed with fresh vegetables and bright flavors. This Mediterranean cucumber salad is one of my favorite dishes to make during the spring and summer months because it’s refreshing, simple, and comes together in just minutes.

Made with crisp cucumbers, juicy cherry tomatoes, olives, fresh vegetables, and a simple olive oil and red wine vinegar dressing, this salad is full of classic Mediterranean flavors. It’s naturally gluten-free, can easily be made vegan or dairy-free, and works beautifully as a healthy side dish or a light lunch.

One of the best things about this recipe is that it requires no cooking at all, making it perfect for hot days when you don’t want to turn on the stove. Whether you’re serving it at a backyard BBQ, bringing it to a picnic, or pairing it with grilled meats, this Mediterranean cucumber tomato salad is always a hit.

Why You’ll Love This Mediterranean Cucumber Salad

This recipe has become a staple in our kitchen because it’s incredibly easy and always tastes fresh and vibrant.

Here are a few reasons it’s one of my go-to summer salads:

• Ready in about 15 minutes
• No cooking required
• Naturally gluten-free and vegetarian
• Easy to make vegan or dairy-free
• Perfect for BBQs, picnics, and summer dinners
• Packed with fresh vegetables and Mediterranean flavor

Living close to farming communities means we have access to amazing local produce, and this salad is one of my favorite ways to use fresh cucumbers and tomatoes when they’re in season.

Is Mediterranean Cucumber Salad Healthy?

Yes. This cucumber salad is made with fresh vegetables and a simple olive oil dressing, making it a naturally healthy side dish.

Cucumbers are hydrating and low in calories, while olive oil provides heart-healthy fats. Combined with tomatoes, onions, and herbs, this salad is full of nutrients and flavor without feeling heavy.

Because it uses whole ingredients and simple preparation, this salad fits well into many eating styles including:

• gluten-free
• vegetarian
• Mediterranean diet
• low-carb
• keto-friendly

Is This Cucumber Salad Keto?

Yes. This recipe can easily fit into a low-carb or keto lifestyle.

The vegetables used in this salad are naturally low in carbohydrates, and the dressing uses olive oil instead of sugary ingredients. If you are following a keto diet, simply be mindful of portion sizes for tomatoes and onions.

This makes it a great keto cucumber salad option that still delivers tons of flavor.

Ingredients You’ll Need

One of the best things about this Mediterranean cucumber salad is that it uses simple ingredients you can find at almost any grocery store.

For the Salad

Cucumbers
Peeled and sliced into rounds, then cut in half for bite-sized pieces.

Cherry Tomatoes
These add sweetness and a pop of color.

Red Onion
Thinly sliced for a mild, slightly sharp flavor.

Olives
You can use sliced canned olives or fresh olives depending on what you have available.

Bell Pepper
Any color works, but red or yellow adds extra sweetness.

Feta Cheese
Traditional feta works great, but you can also use a vegan feta if you prefer a dairy-free version. I use the Follow Your Heart Vegan Feta Crumbles when making this.

Sea Salt
I prefer using pink Himalayan sea salt for its clean flavor.

For the Dressing

Olive Oil
Use a good quality olive oil for the best flavor.

Red Wine Vinegar
Adds brightness and balances the richness of the olive oil.

Dried Oregano
A classic Mediterranean herb that adds depth.

Sea Salt

This simple dressing comes together in seconds and really lets the fresh vegetables shine.

How to Make Mediterranean Cucumber Salad

This salad is incredibly easy to prepare and takes only a few steps.

Step 1
Add the sliced cucumbers to a large bowl and sprinkle with salt. Toss to coat evenly.

Step 2
Add the cherry tomatoes, sliced onion, olives, and bell pepper to the bowl.

Step 3
In a small bowl or mason jar, whisk together the olive oil, red wine vinegar, oregano, and sea salt to make the dressing

Step 4
Pour the dressing over the salad and toss everything together until evenly coated.

Step 5
Add the crumbled feta cheese and gently toss again.

Serve immediately for the freshest flavor and texture.

Tips for the Best Cucumber Salad

Use fresh cucumbers
Fresh cucumbers will give you the best crunch and flavor.

Slice vegetables thinly
Thin slices help the dressing coat everything evenly.

Dress the salad right before serving
Cucumbers release water over time, so adding the dressing just before serving keeps the salad crisp.

Use high-quality olive oil
A good olive oil makes a big difference in simple Mediterranean recipes like this one.

Easy Variations and Substitutions

One of the reasons this recipe is so popular is because it’s easy to customize.

Make it Vegan or Dairy-Free

Simply omit the feta cheese or use a plant-based feta alternative.

Add More Protein

Try adding chickpeas for a heartier salad.

Use Different Cucumbers

English cucumbers or Persian cucumbers work especially well because they have fewer seeds and thinner skins.

Add Fresh Herbs

Fresh parsley, dill, or mint add wonderful flavor and brighten the salad even more.

How to Store Mediterranean Cucumber Salad

If you want to make this salad ahead of time, store the vegetables and dressing separately.

The chopped vegetables can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days.

Once the salad is dressed, it is best enjoyed within a few hours to prevent the cucumbers from releasing too much water.

What to Serve With Mediterranean Cucumber Salad

This salad pairs beautifully with many dishes and is especially popular during grilling season.

Try serving it alongside:

• grilled chicken
• grilled salmon
• roasted vegetables
• gluten-free pasta dishes
• Mediterranean-inspired meals

It also makes a refreshing light lunch on its own.

Want more easy and delicious healthy gluten free side dishes like this keto cucumber salad? I’ve got you covered…

• The Best Gluten Free Baked Beans Recipe
• Mediterranean Pasta Salad (grain free, dairy free)
• Kale Jicama Salad
• Chipotle Cilantro Lime Rice
• Oven Roasted Cauliflower