Refreshing Italian Cucumber Salad

Refreshing Italian Cucumber Salad is a burst of freshness that instantly whisks you away to a sun-drenched Italian terrace. This salad, perfect for warm days, takes just 15 minutes to prepare and marries the crispness of cucumbers with the zing of red wine vinegar, making it a delightful choice for any meal.

This recipe is perfect for anyone looking to add a refreshing dish to their summer gatherings or weeknight dinners. It’s ideal for picnics or as a side at barbecues. Plus, it can be made ahead of time and stored in the fridge, so you can whip it out when you’re ready to serve.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Crunchy cucumbers provide a refreshing base full of hydration.
• Vibrant cherry tomatoes add a burst of color and sweetness.
• The red onion brings a delightful crunch and a hint of sharpness.
• Quick and easy to prepare, making it a perfect last-minute dish.

What You’ll Need

Here’s what you’ll need to create this refreshing salad.

For the Salad

• 2 large cucumbers, peeled and thinly sliced
• 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
• 1/2 red onion, thinly sliced
• 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped

For the Dressing

• 3 tablespoons olive oil
• 2 tablespoons red wine vinegar
• Salt and pepper to taste

For Serving

• Feta cheese (optional, for topping)

Cherry tomatoes can be substituted with grape tomatoes.

Substitutions & Swaps

• Red onion can be replaced with green onions.
• Fresh parsley can be swapped for basil or cilantro.
• Feta cheese can be omitted for a dairy-free option.
• Olive oil can be substituted with avocado oil.

How to Make It

Prepare a light and refreshing salad in just a few steps.

Peel and slice cucumbers

Peel and thinly slice the cucumbers, then place them in a large bowl.

Add other vegetables

Add the cherry tomatoes, red onion, and parsley to the bowl.

Whisk the dressing

In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, red wine vinegar, salt, and pepper.

Drizzle and toss

Drizzle the dressing over the salad and toss gently to combine.

Add feta cheese

If desired, crumble feta cheese on top before serving.

Chill and serve

Serve chilled, and enjoy!

How to Store It

Fridge: Store in an airtight container for up to 2 days.
Freezer: No, vegetables don’t freeze well.
Reheat: Not applicable, serve cold.

Tips for Best Results

• Use fresh, firm cucumbers for the best texture.
• Let the salad chill for at least 30 minutes for enhanced flavor.
• Season the dressing to your taste to make it perfect for your palate.

Serving Suggestions

• Pair it with grilled chicken or fish for a complete meal.
• Serve it alongside your favorite sandwiches for a refreshing lunch.
• Perfect as a side dish at summer barbecues or family gatherings.