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Kid-Approved Cucumber Tomato Feta Salad: Easy & Best Summer Side

kid-approved cucumber tomato feta salad - featured image

This refreshing cucumber tomato feta salad is a kid-approved summer side dish that comes together in under 15 minutes. With crisp cucumbers, juicy tomatoes, and tangy feta in a simple red wine vinaigrette, it’s a crowd-pleaser that even picky eaters love.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 large English cucumbers (or 3 medium Persian cucumbers), unpeeled and diced
  • 4 cups cherry tomatoes, halved (or 3 large Roma tomatoes, diced)
  • 1 cup crumbled feta cheese (preferably block-style in brine)
  • 1/2 small red onion, thinly sliced (soaked in cold water for 10 minutes to mellow)
  • 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
  • 1/4 cup sliced Kalamata olives (optional)
  • 3 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
  • 2 tablespoons red wine vinegar
  • 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
  • 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
  • 1/4 teaspoon sugar
  • Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste

Instructions

  1. Wash and dice the cucumbers into bite-sized pieces (about 1/2 inch). If using English cucumbers, leave the skin on. Transfer to a large mixing bowl.
  2. Wash and halve the cherry tomatoes (or dice larger tomatoes). Add to the bowl with cucumbers.
  3. Peel and thinly slice the red onion into half-rings. If desired, soak in cold water for 10 minutes to reduce sharpness, then drain well. Add to the bowl.
  4. In a small bowl or mason jar, combine olive oil, red wine vinegar, Dijon mustard, dried oregano, and sugar. Whisk or shake until emulsified. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
  5. Pour the dressing over the cucumber mixture. Add chopped parsley and gently toss to coat evenly.
  6. Sprinkle crumbled feta over the top and gently fold in, leaving some pieces visible.
  7. Let the salad rest at room temperature for 10-15 minutes before serving to allow flavors to meld.
  8. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed. Serve at room temperature or slightly chilled.

Notes

For best texture, salt the diced cucumbers lightly and let them sit in a colander for 10 minutes, then pat dry before adding to the salad to prevent wateriness. Use a serrated knife for tomatoes to avoid crushing. Let feta come to room temperature for better flavor. This salad is best within an hour of dressing; if making ahead, store chopped vegetables and dressing separately and combine just before serving.

Nutrition

Keywords: cucumber tomato feta salad, kid-approved salad, easy summer side, Mediterranean salad, quick salad recipe