Greek Salad

Greek Salad is a fresh and vibrant Mediterranean dish featuring crisp vegetables, briny olives, creamy feta cheese, and a tangy olive oil dressing. This refreshing salad is perfect as a light meal, a side dish, or a complement to grilled meats. With its simple yet bold flavors, Greek Salad is a must-try for anyone who loves Mediterranean cuisine.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: Takes just 15 minutes to prepare with no cooking required.
• Healthy and Nutritious: Packed with fresh vegetables, heart-healthy olive oil, and protein-rich feta cheese.
• Authentic Mediterranean Flavors: A balance of tangy, salty, and fresh ingredients.
• Perfect for Any Occasion: Great as a side dish, light lunch, or addition to grilled meats.

Ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

• Cucumbers, chopped
• Cherry tomatoes, halved
• Red onion, thinly sliced
• Bell pepper, sliced (red, yellow, or green)
• Kalamata olives, pitted
• Feta cheese, crumbled or cut into cubes
• Extra virgin olive oil
• Red wine vinegar
• Garlic, minced
• Dried oregano
• Salt and black pepper
• Fresh parsley (optional, for garnish)

Directions

1. Prepare the Vegetables:
   Chop the cucumbers, tomatoes, and bell pepper. Thinly slice the red onion. Place them in a large salad bowl.
2. Add the Olives and Feta:
   Toss in the Kalamata olives and add the feta cheese on top.
3. Make the Dressing:
   In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, red wine vinegar, minced garlic, oregano, salt, and black pepper.
4. Toss and Serve:
   Pour the dressing over the salad and gently toss to combine. Garnish with fresh parsley if desired. Serve immediately.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 4 to 6 servings
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Total Time: 15 minutes

Variations

• Protein Boost: Add grilled chicken, shrimp, or chickpeas for extra protein.
• Spicy Twist: Sprinkle in some crushed red pepper flakes for heat.
• Lemon Zest: Add a squeeze of fresh lemon juice for more brightness.
• Herb Upgrade: Use fresh basil or dill for additional flavor.

Storage/Reheating

• Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
• Make-Ahead Tip: Keep the dressing separate until ready to serve to maintain freshness.
• Do Not Freeze: The fresh vegetables and feta do not freeze well.

FAQs

1. Can I make Greek Salad ahead of time?

Yes, but keep the dressing separate and add it just before serving.

2. What type of feta cheese is best?

Authentic Greek feta made from sheep’s milk has the best flavor and texture.

3. Can I use a different type of olive?

Yes, but Kalamata olives provide the most authentic Greek flavor.

4. How do I reduce the sharpness of red onion?

Soak the sliced onion in cold water for 10 minutes to mellow its flavor.

5. Is Greek Salad keto-friendly?

Yes, it is naturally low in carbs and fits well into a keto diet.

6. What can I serve with Greek Salad?

It pairs well with grilled chicken, lamb, pita bread, or hummus.

7. Can I use balsamic vinegar instead of red wine vinegar?

You can, but red wine vinegar gives a more traditional Greek flavor.

8. How do I keep the salad from getting soggy?

Avoid adding salt too early, as it draws moisture from the vegetables.

9. Can I use dried oregano instead of fresh?

Yes, dried oregano is traditional and provides great flavor.

10. Can I make a dairy-free version?

Yes, simply omit the feta cheese or use a dairy-free feta alternative.

Conclusion

Greek Salad is a fresh, healthy, and flavorful dish that is easy to prepare and perfect for any occasion. With crisp vegetables, briny olives, and creamy feta, it delivers an authentic Mediterranean taste. Whether enjoyed as a side or a light main dish, this salad is a refreshing and nutritious addition to your table.

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• Author: Mariem
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Total Time: 10 minutes
• Yield: 4 servings 1x
• Category: Salad
• Method: No-Cook
• Cuisine: Mediterranean, Greek

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Description

This Greek Salad is a refreshing and vibrant dish made with crisp cucumbers, juicy tomatoes, red onions, Kalamata olives, and creamy feta cheese. Tossed in a zesty homemade Greek dressing, it’s the perfect light and healthy side dish or meal!

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Ingredients

Units USM Scale 1x2x3x

For the Salad:

• 1 English cucumber, sliced
• 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
• 1/2 red onion, thinly sliced
• 1/2 cup Kalamata olives
• 1/2 cup feta cheese, cubed or crumbled
• 1 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped

For the Greek Dressing:

• 3 tbsp olive oil
• 1 tbsp red wine vinegar
• 1 tbsp lemon juice
• 1 clove garlic, minced
• 1 tsp dried oregano
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 1/2 tsp black pepper

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Instructions

1. Prepare the Salad:
   • In a large bowl, combine sliced cucumbers, cherry tomatoes, red onion, and Kalamata olives.
2. Make the Dressing:
   • In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, red wine vinegar, lemon juice, minced garlic, dried oregano, salt, and black pepper.
3. Assemble & Toss:
   • Pour the dressing over the salad and toss to coat evenly.
   • Gently add feta cheese and sprinkle with fresh parsley.
4. Serve & Enjoy:
   • Serve immediately or chill for 15-20 minutes for enhanced flavors.

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Notes

• Add grilled chicken or shrimp for a protein-packed meal.
• Use a mix of green and black olives for variety.
• Store leftovers in the fridge for up to 2 days.