here’s something incredibly satisfying about a Greek salad. It’s fresh, light, and brimming with Mediterranean flavors that transport me to a sun-soaked Greek island. Whether you’re looking for a quick lunch, a vibrant side dish, or a healthy addition to your dinner table, this Greek salad with feta and olives hits all the right notes. Let’s dive into the details!
Ingredients for Greek Salad
Here’s everything you’ll need to create this iconic dish. Each ingredient plays a vital role in delivering that authentic Greek taste:
- Crisp Cucumbers (2 medium) – Slice them into half-moons or quarters. Their crunch adds a refreshing base to the salad.
- Juicy Tomatoes (4 medium) – Go for ripe, firm tomatoes. Chop them into bite-sized pieces to release their sweet juices.
- Red Onion (1 small) – Thinly sliced for a pop of sharpness. Soak them in water for 10 minutes if you want to mellow the flavor.
- Kalamata Olives (½ cup) – These dark, briny olives are the heart of a Greek salad. No substitutes here!
- Feta Cheese (4 oz) – Crumbled or cubed, feta’s creamy and tangy profile ties the whole dish together.
- Green Bell Pepper (1 medium) – Thinly sliced for a subtle earthy crunch.
- Extra Virgin Olive Oil (3 tbsp) – The backbone of your dressing. Use the highest-quality oil you have.
- Red Wine Vinegar (2 tbsp) – Adds a zippy tang that balances the olive oil.
- Dried Oregano (1 tsp) – Sprinkle generously for that signature Greek flavor.
- Salt and Black Pepper (to taste) – Simple but essential seasonings.
Prep Tip
Keep your ingredients cold before assembling the salad. A chilled salad enhances the refreshing experience.
How to Make Greek Salad
Follow these simple steps, and you’ll have a perfect Greek salad in minutes:
Step 1: Prep the Vegetables
Wash and dry all your veggies. Slice the cucumbers, chop the tomatoes, and thinly slice the onion and bell pepper. Set them aside in a large bowl.
Step 2: Add the Olives and Feta
Toss in the Kalamata olives and scatter the feta cheese over the vegetables. You can crumble the feta for a rustic look or cube it for a more structured presentation.
Step 3: Make the Dressing
In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, red wine vinegar, oregano, salt, and pepper. Taste and adjust the seasoning if needed.
Step 4: Combine and Toss
Pour the dressing over the salad ingredients. Gently toss everything together to coat the veggies and cheese without breaking them apart.
Step 5: Serve
Transfer the salad to a serving dish or enjoy it straight from the bowl. For an authentic touch, serve with crusty bread on the side.
Equipment Needed for This Recipe
- A large salad bowl for mixing
- Sharp knife and cutting board for prepping veggies
- Small bowl and whisk for the dressing
- Serving utensils for tossing
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make Greek salad ahead of time?
Yes! You can prep the vegetables and dressing separately up to a day in advance. Store them in airtight containers in the fridge, and combine them just before serving to maintain freshness.
What can I substitute for Kalamata olives?
If you can’t find Kalamata olives, try black or green olives, but keep in mind the flavor won’t be as authentic.
Is Greek salad healthy?
Absolutely! It’s packed with fresh vegetables, healthy fats from olive oil and feta cheese, and is naturally low in calories.
How can I make this salad vegan?
Simply omit the feta cheese or replace it with a plant-based alternative. The rest of the recipe is already vegan-friendly.
What can I pair with Greek salad?
This salad is versatile! Serve it alongside grilled chicken, lamb skewers, or a warm bowl of lentil soup for a complete meal.
Can I use different herbs in the dressing?
Certainly! Fresh dill or parsley can add a delightful twist to the classic oregano-based dressing.
Conclusion
I hope you loved diving into this easy and delicious Greek salad recipe as much as I did! It’s one of those dishes that never fails to impress, whether it’s a casual lunch or a dinner party side dish.
Don’t forget to share this recipe on Facebook using the share buttons below or save it to Pinterest for later. Let’s spread the love for this Mediterranean classic together! 🥗
Leave a Comment