The Classic Greek Salad Recipe is a vibrant and refreshing dish that brings the authentic flavors of the Mediterranean right to your table. It’s a symphony of crisp cucumbers, juicy cherry tomatoes, tangy feta cheese, and briny olives, all brought together by a simple, yet flavorful, herb dressing. This Greek salad recipe is more than just a side dish; it’s a light, refreshing meal that’s perfect for any time of year. Whether you’re looking for a healthy lunch option or a colorful addition to a dinner spread, this Classic Greek Salad Recipe delivers on flavor, nutrition, and ease.
Greek salads have been enjoyed for centuries, celebrated for their simplicity and fresh, wholesome ingredients. Traditionally known as “Horiatiki” in Greece, this salad omits lettuce and focuses on a handful of key ingredients that represent the rustic, hearty cuisine of the region. It’s a beautiful reminder that sometimes, the best meals are made with the freshest, simplest ingredients.
Ingredients:
For the Salad:
- 2 cups cherry tomatoes (halved)
- 1 large cucumber (sliced into half-moons)
- 1 small red onion (thinly sliced)
- 1 cup mixed olives (Kalamata and green olives)
- 1 cup feta cheese (cubed or crumbled)
- ¼ cup fresh parsley (chopped)
For the Dressing:
- ¼ cup olive oil
- 2 tbsp red wine vinegar
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- 1 garlic clove (minced)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Preparation:
Step 1: Prepare the Salad Base
In a large bowl, add the halved cherry tomatoes. These little bursts of sweetness and acidity form the backbone of the salad. Next, slice the cucumber into half-moons, ensuring each bite retains a cool, refreshing crunch. Thinly slice the red onion and toss it into the bowl. The onions add a sharpness that balances the sweetness of the tomatoes and the mellow taste of the cucumber. Finally, add the olives and crumbled or cubed feta cheese. The brininess from the olives and the creamy, tangy nature of feta perfectly complement the fresh vegetables.
Step 2: Make the Dressing
In a small bowl or jar, combine the olive oil, red wine vinegar, and dried oregano. Add the minced garlic for an aromatic punch. Season the mixture with salt and pepper to taste. Whisk everything together until the dressing is well emulsified. This simple dressing may seem unassuming, but the olive oil and vinegar combination is a hallmark of Mediterranean cuisine, allowing the fresh vegetables to shine without overpowering them.
Step 3: Toss the Salad
Pour the herb dressing over the salad ingredients. Using tongs or a large spoon, gently toss the salad until all the ingredients are well coated with the dressing. Be careful not to overmix, as you want to preserve the integrity of the fresh ingredients. The tomatoes should remain juicy, the cucumbers crisp, and the feta cheese intact in delightful chunks.
Step 4: Garnish with Fresh Parsley
Once the salad is well dressed, sprinkle the chopped fresh parsley over the top. This herb adds a final burst of freshness, bringing everything together in a harmonious balance of flavors. You can either serve the salad immediately or refrigerate it for about 20 minutes. Letting the salad sit allows the flavors to meld, making each bite even more flavorful.
Step 5: Serve and Enjoy
Serve the salad as a side dish or a light meal. Pair it with grilled meats, seafood, or even some warm pita bread to scoop up the vegetables and dressing. The bright, zesty flavors of this salad make it a perfect accompaniment to many dishes, or it can stand on its own as a refreshing meal.
Variations:
The beauty of this Classic Greek Salad lies in its adaptability. Here are some variations to consider:
- Add Protein: For a more filling option, add grilled chicken, shrimp, or even chickpeas for a vegetarian protein boost.
- Switch the Cheese: While feta is the traditional choice, you could substitute it with a milder goat cheese or even omit it for a vegan version.
- Extra Veggies: Add bell peppers, radishes, or capers to introduce more texture and flavor diversity.
- Vinaigrette Twist: Try using lemon juice instead of red wine vinegar for a brighter, tangier dressing.
Cooking Note:
For the freshest taste, always use high-quality extra-virgin olive oil. It forms the base of the dressing and significantly impacts the flavor. Additionally, choose vine-ripened tomatoes and crisp cucumbers for the best texture. The quality of the ingredients will directly influence the taste and enjoyment of this simple, yet flavorful, salad.
Serving Suggestions:
This Classic Greek Salad is wonderfully versatile. It pairs beautifully with:
- Grilled lamb or chicken souvlaki
- Fresh pita bread or garlic bread
- Hummus and tzatziki for dipping
- As a side for a Mediterranean mezze platter
- With a glass of chilled white wine or lemonade
Whether you’re enjoying it at a backyard barbecue, a picnic, or as a part of a family dinner, this salad will add a refreshing and flavorful component to your meal.
Tips:
- Chill for Best Flavor: If you have time, refrigerate the salad for 20-30 minutes before serving to let the flavors meld together.
- Use Block Feta: If possible, use block feta cheese instead of pre-crumbled. It’s creamier and has a richer flavor.
- Cut Veggies Uniformly: Try to cut your vegetables into similar sizes for even distribution of flavor in each bite.
- Add Dressing Just Before Serving: To keep the salad crisp, toss it with the dressing just before serving, especially if you plan to make it ahead.
Prep Time:
10 minutes
Total Time:
10 minutes
Nutritional Information (per serving):
- Calories: 280 kcal
- Protein: 7g
- Sodium: 850mg
FAQs:
Q: Can I make this salad ahead of time?
A: Yes! You can prepare the salad ingredients in advance and store them in the refrigerator. However, it’s best to add the dressing just before serving to keep the vegetables crisp.
Q: Can I use a different cheese?
A: Absolutely. While feta is traditional, you can experiment with goat cheese or even mozzarella for a milder flavor.
Q: Is this salad vegan-friendly?
A: To make it vegan, simply omit the feta cheese or use a plant-based cheese alternative.
Q: How long will the salad last in the fridge?
A: The salad can last up to 2 days in the fridge, but it’s best enjoyed fresh for the best texture and flavor.
Conclusion:
In summary, this Classic Greek Salad Recipe is a simple yet elegant dish that showcases the best of Mediterranean cuisine. Its fresh ingredients and bold flavors make it a perfect side or light meal. Whether you’re serving it alongside grilled meats, as part of a mezze spread, or enjoying it as a standalone dish, this recipe will become a staple in your kitchen.
Print
Classic Greek Salad – A Mediterranean Masterpiece
- Total Time: 10
Ingredients
Ingredients:
For the Salad:
- 2 cups cherry tomatoes (halved)
- 1 large cucumber (sliced into half-moons)
- 1 small red onion (thinly sliced)
- 1 cup mixed olives (Kalamata and green olives)
- 1 cup feta cheese (cubed or crumbled)
- ¼ cup fresh parsley (chopped)
For the Dressing:
- ¼ cup olive oil
- 2 tbsp red wine vinegar
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- 1 garlic clove (minced)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions
Preparation:
Step 1: Prepare the Salad Base
In a large bowl, add the halved cherry tomatoes. These little bursts of sweetness and acidity form the backbone of the salad. Next, slice the cucumber into half-moons, ensuring each bite retains a cool, refreshing crunch. Thinly slice the red onion and toss it into the bowl. The onions add a sharpness that balances the sweetness of the tomatoes and the mellow taste of the cucumber. Finally, add the olives and crumbled or cubed feta cheese. The brininess from the olives and the creamy, tangy nature of feta perfectly complement the fresh vegetables.
Step 2: Make the Dressing
In a small bowl or jar, combine the olive oil, red wine vinegar, and dried oregano. Add the minced garlic for an aromatic punch. Season the mixture with salt and pepper to taste. Whisk everything together until the dressing is well emulsified. This simple dressing may seem unassuming, but the olive oil and vinegar combination is a hallmark of Mediterranean cuisine, allowing the fresh vegetables to shine without overpowering them.
Step 3: Toss the Salad
Pour the herb dressing over the salad ingredients. Using tongs or a large spoon, gently toss the salad until all the ingredients are well coated with the dressing. Be careful not to overmix, as you want to preserve the integrity of the fresh ingredients. The tomatoes should remain juicy, the cucumbers crisp, and the feta cheese intact in delightful chunks.
Step 4: Garnish with Fresh Parsley
Once the salad is well dressed, sprinkle the chopped fresh parsley over the top. This herb adds a final burst of freshness, bringing everything together in a harmonious balance of flavors. You can either serve the salad immediately or refrigerate it for about 20 minutes. Letting the salad sit allows the flavors to meld, making each bite even more flavorful.
Step 5: Serve and Enjoy
Serve the salad as a side dish or a light meal. Pair it with grilled meats, seafood, or even some warm pita bread to scoop up the vegetables and dressing. The bright, zesty flavors of this salad make it a perfect accompaniment to many dishes, or it can stand on its own as a refreshing meal.
Notes
Cooking Note:
For the freshest taste, always use high-quality extra-virgin olive oil. It forms the base of the dressing and significantly impacts the flavor. Additionally, choose vine-ripened tomatoes and crisp cucumbers for the best texture. The quality of the ingredients will directly influence the taste and enjoyment of this simple, yet flavorful, salad.
- Prep Time: 10
Nutrition
- Calories: 280
- Sodium: 850mg
- Protein: 7g