Mediterranean Cucumber Salad
Servings:6 servings
This fresh and light Mediterranean cucumber salad is perfect for summer gatherings and lunches. Made with tomatoes, English cucumber, olives, dairy-free feta, and a light vinaigrette dressing. Vegan and gluten-free.
Ingredients
- 1 large English cucumber, ends trimmed, cut into 1-inch pieces - See Note 1
- 6 ounces grape or cherry tomatoes, halved
- ½ medium red onion, thinly sliced
- 1 small bunch radishes, thinly sliced, optional
- 1 (15 oz) can chickpeas, rinsed and drained - or approx 1 ¾ cups cooked chickpeas; if avoiding oil, save the aquafaba from the can for the fat-free Italian dressing linked in Notes.
- ½ cup sliced black olives - or kalamata, if preferred
- ½ cup crumbled vegan feta cheese - tap for a recipe or use store-bought
For the dressing:
- 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil - See Note 2
- 1 tablespoon red wine vinegar
- 1 clove garlic, minced or zested
- 1 rounded tablespoon finely chopped fresh parsley - plus more for garnish if desired
- ¾ teaspoon fine sea salt or mineral salt
- scant ½ teaspoon Italian seasoning blend - or a combination of dried oregano and basil
- ½ teaspoon freshly cracked black pepper
Instructions
- In a small bowl whisk together the dressing ingredients. Set aside.
- In a large bowl, combine the cucumber, tomatoes, red onion, radishes, if using, chickpeas, and olives. Add dressing and toss. Set aside for 5-10 minutes to allow the flavors to marry.
- Taste and adjust the seasoning. Sprinkle with feta cheese and additional parsley and serve.
Notes
Note 1: There is no need to peel English cucumbers. Smaller Persian cucumbers are also good here. These types are ideal for salads because of the thinner, edible, crisp skins, which add flavor and color. If you need to use common slicing cucumber, it should be peeled first.
Note 2: For an oil-free dressing option, I highly recommend this Fat-free Italian Vinaigrette. It's a reader fave!
Store: Cucumber salad is best the day it's made, though leftovers will keep for 2-3 days in the refrigerator. Store in an airtight container.
Nutrition
Calories: 148kcal | Carbohydrates: 15g | Protein: 5g | Fat: 8g | Cholesterol: 0mg | Fiber: 5g
