greek salad
Greek salad with crispy veggies, feta, and olives. A fresh, healthy option for your lunch or dinner—ready in minutes!
Ingredients
Method
- Wash all vegetables thoroughly to remove any dirt or residue.
- Cut the cherry tomatoes in half. Slice the cucumber, red onion, and green bell pepper.
- Combine the tomatoes, cucumber, onion, bell pepper, and Kalamata olives in a large salad bowl.
- Add the feta cheese, either cubed or crumbled, on top of the vegetables.
- In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, red wine vinegar, dried oregano, salt, and black pepper.
- Drizzle the dressing over the salad and toss gently to combine.
- Serve immediately for maximum freshness and enjoy your Greek salad!
Notes
Greek salad is a true Mediterranean classic, celebrated for its vibrant colors, crisp textures, and refreshing flavors. It’s an incredibly versatile dish, perfect for hot summer days, quick lunches, or as a lively side for festive gatherings. Its simplicity makes it popular worldwide—yet, with a few expert tips, you can turn your Greek salad into something truly exceptional.
Practical Tips and Ingredient Swaps
- For maximum crunch and freshness, always use the freshest vegetables you can find. English cucumber or Persian cucumbers work especially well for their lower seed count and sweet flavor.
- If you can’t find Kalamata olives, substitute with ripe black olives, but always choose olives packed in brine for that authentic taste boost.
- Traditional Greek salad uses blocks of sheep’s milk feta. If you can source this, go for it—it offers a creamy texture and full flavor. Crumble it gently with your fingers for a rustic touch.
Technique and Preparation Advice
- To prevent soggy salad, add the salt and dressing just before serving. Salting ahead of time can draw out water from the veggies, making them limp.
- Layer your ingredients with tomatoes and cucumbers on the bottom, followed by onion, bell pepper, and a generous layer of feta on top. This helps keep delicate ingredients intact when mixing.
- For a bolder taste, marinate the onions in a splash of vinegar for 5 minutes before adding. It takes the bite out and adds complexity.
Serving Suggestions and Creative Variations
- Serve your Greek salad alongside grilled meats, fresh pita bread, or roasted potatoes for a complete meal.
- Add a handful of fresh herbs like oregano or mint for an aromatic finish.
- Make it a heartier dish by tossing in cooked quinoa or chickpeas, offering extra protein and texture.
- For a fun variation, swap the feta for grilled halloumi or sprinkle with toasted pine nuts for crunch.
