Mini Greek Salad Cups

Name: Mini Greek Salad Cups
Prep time: 15 min
Total time: 15 min
Yield: 12 cups
Ingredients: 12 mini cucumbers; 1 cup diced tomatoes; 1 cup diced bell peppers; 1 cup crumbled feta cheese; 1/2 cup sliced black olives; 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley; 2 tablespoons olive oil; Juice of 1 lemon; Salt and pepper to taste

Highlighted under: Sweet Baking

I love making Mini Greek Salad Cups as a refreshing appetizer for gatherings. They are not only visually appealing but also full of vibrant flavors that truly capture the essence of Mediterranean cuisine. The crunchy cucumbers combined with tangy feta and zesty olives create a delightful bite-sized treat. Plus, it's easy to assemble and fun to eat, making them a perfect choice for parties or casual get-togethers. Let's dive into the recipe and bring some sunshine to our tables!

Created by

Leo

Last updated on 2026-02-19T18:14:22.692Z

When I first made Mini Greek Salad Cups, I was struck by how simple yet flavorful they are. The combination of fresh vegetables, herbs, and feta cheese offers a taste explosion that’s both vibrant and satisfying. I realized that using mini cucumbers not only adds crunch but also serves as a perfect vessel for the salad filling, making them easy to grab and eat.

Experimenting with the dressing has been a fun journey for me. I found that a drizzle of olive oil and a squeeze of lemon really brightens the flavors. This simple dressing elevates the entire dish while keeping everything fresh and light. You can add your favorite herbs like dill or mint for an extra layer of flavor.

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Crisp and refreshing, perfect for warm days
Easy to customize with your favorite vegetables
Great for parties and gatherings, no utensils needed

Elevating Flavors with Ingredients

Choosing the freshest ingredients for your Mini Greek Salad Cups is essential. Opt for firm mini cucumbers that are crisp to the bite; they should have a vibrant green color without any soft spots. When selecting tomatoes, go for ripe and juicy ones, as they will provide a burst of flavor. The bell peppers can add a sweet crunch, so consider using both red and yellow for visual appeal and taste complexity. The combination of these fresh components will elevate the overall flavor profile of the dish.

Feta cheese plays a critical role in this recipe, imparting a tangy and salty essence that complements the other ingredients. If you're looking for a lower-fat option, consider using reduced-fat feta, but keep in mind that it may have a slightly different texture. For those needing a dairy-free alternative, crumbled firm tofu marinated in lemon juice can mimic the texture and taste of feta quite well, allowing everyone to enjoy this vibrant appetizer.

Assembly Tips for Perfect Cups

When preparing your cucumber cups, take care not to over-scoop, as this could compromise their structural integrity. Aim for a delicate balance; the cucumbers should hold enough salad to be flavorful but not so much that they topple over. Use a small spoon or melon baller gently to avoid puncturing the sides, ensuring they stay intact during assembly. You can refrigerate the scooped cucumber halves for up to an hour before filling them, allowing your assembly process to be a breeze.

For a visually appealing presentation, consider stacking the salad mixture in your cucumber cups rather than just filling them. This technique not only looks stunning but also allows for a varied texture in each bite. If you're preparing these in advance, fill the cucumber cups no more than an hour before serving to keep them crisp. This way, you can enjoy the vibrant colors and fresh flavors exactly as intended, without any loss of texture.

Ingredients

12 mini cucumbers
1 cup diced tomatoes
1 cup diced bell peppers
1 cup crumbled feta cheese
1/2 cup sliced black olives
1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
2 tablespoons olive oil
Juice of 1 lemon
Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

Prepare the Cucumbers

Slice the mini cucumbers in half lengthwise and scoop out the seeds using a small spoon or melon baller, creating a little cup to hold the salad.

Make the Salad Filling

In a mixing bowl, combine diced tomatoes, bell peppers, feta cheese, black olives, parsley, olive oil, lemon juice, salt, and pepper. Mix until well combined.

Assemble the Cups

Fill each cucumber half with the salad mixture, pressing it down gently to fill them completely.

Serve

Arrange the filled cucumber cups on a platter and serve immediately. Enjoy your bright and flavorful appetizer!

Pro Tips

For added flavor, consider marinating the cucumber cups in a bit of salt and vinegar before filling them. This enhances their taste and gives them a delightful crunch.

Make-Ahead and Storage Tips

Mini Greek Salad Cups can be made ahead of time for stress-free entertaining. Prepare the salad mixture up to a day in advance and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. However, I recommend filling the cucumber cups only a couple of hours before serving to prevent them from becoming soggy. Keeping the components separate until ready to serve ensures that every bite remains crisp and fresh.

If you're considering leftovers, be aware that the cucumber cups may lose their crunch after a day. Store any leftover filled cups in the fridge in a covered container for best results, but consume them within a day. Alternatively, store any remaining salad mix separately to use as a topping for grilled chicken or fish the next day to minimize waste.

Variations and Dietary Swaps

Feel free to customize your Mini Greek Salad Cups with an array of ingredients that suit your taste. If you prefer a bit of heat, you can add diced jalapeños or sprinkle some red pepper flakes into the salad mixture. For a more Mediterranean twist, include artichoke hearts or roasted red peppers to diversify the flavors. Experimenting with herbs such as dill or mint can add an aromatic layer that complements the traditional Greek flavors beautifully.

For a low-carb option, consider replacing the mini cucumbers with endive leaves, which will lend a different texture while still maintaining the refreshing quality. Similarly, if you need a gluten-free version, this recipe is inherently gluten-free, but double-check that your of olives and feta meet any dietary restrictions.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make these cups ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the filling a few hours in advance, but fill the cucumbers just before serving to keep them crisp.

→ What can I substitute for feta cheese?

You can use goat cheese or a dairy-free cheese alternative if you're looking for a different flavor or dietary options.

→ Can I add other vegetables?

Absolutely! You can add diced red onions, carrots, or even herbs like dill for a twist.

→ How long do these last in the refrigerator?

They are best enjoyed fresh, but you can store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 2 days.