Easy Greek Salad: A Fresh, Flavorful Mediterranean Classic

Greek salad is one of the simplest and most refreshing dishes in Mediterranean cuisine. With crisp cucumbers, juicy tomatoes, tangy feta cheese, and briny Kalamata olives, this salad is a burst of flavor in every bite. Perfect as a side dish, light lunch, or dinner accompaniment, an easy Greek salad can elevate any meal with its bright colors and fresh ingredients.

This recipe focuses on simplicity, using everyday ingredients while staying true to the authentic flavors of Greece. Whether you’re new to Mediterranean cuisine or a seasoned foodie, this easy Greek salad recipe is perfect for any occasion.

Ingredients

• 2 cups cherry tomatoes, halved
• 1 large cucumber, sliced into half-moons
• 1 small red onion, thinly sliced
• 1/2 cup Kalamata olives, pitted
• 1/2 cup feta cheese, crumbled
• 1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil
• 2 tbsp red wine vinegar
• 1 tsp dried oregano
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Optional: 1/2 green bell pepper, sliced
• Optional garnish: fresh parsley or basil leaves

Instructions

1. Prepare the vegetables: Wash and halve the cherry tomatoes. Peel and slice the cucumber into half-moons. Thinly slice the red onion. If using bell pepper, slice into thin strips.
2. Assemble the salad: In a large mixing bowl, combine the tomatoes, cucumber, onion, and olives. Gently toss to mix the ingredients evenly.
3. Add feta cheese: Sprinkle the crumbled feta over the top of the vegetables. Avoid mixing too aggressively to keep the feta from breaking down completely.
4. Make the dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, red wine vinegar, oregano, salt, and pepper. Taste and adjust seasoning as desired.
5. Dress the salad: Pour the dressing evenly over the salad. Gently toss just enough to coat the vegetables without mashing them.
6. Garnish and serve: Sprinkle optional fresh herbs like parsley or basil over the salad for an extra burst of flavor and color. Serve immediately.

Tips for the Perfect Greek Salad

• Use ripe, fresh vegetables: Fresh produce is the key to a bright, flavorful Greek salad. Choose firm cucumbers and ripe, sweet tomatoes.
• High-quality feta: A tangy, creamy feta elevates the dish. Try Greek-style feta in a block rather than pre-crumbled for better flavor.
• Adjust dressing to taste: If you prefer a tangier salad, increase the vinegar slightly. For a milder taste, use a little less.
• Keep it fresh: Greek salad is best eaten immediately after preparing to retain crispness. If you must refrigerate, store dressing separately and toss just before serving.

Variations of Greek Salad

1. Protein-Packed Greek Salad: Add grilled chicken, shrimp, or tuna for a filling main dish.
2. Greek Salad Wrap: Wrap the salad with grilled pita and hummus for a portable meal.
3. Quinoa Greek Salad: Mix cooked quinoa into the salad to add a healthy grain component.
4. Avocado Greek Salad: Include avocado cubes for creaminess that complements feta.
5. Roasted Vegetable Greek Salad: Add roasted zucchini or bell peppers for a warm, Mediterranean twist.

Serving Suggestions

• As a Side Dish: Perfect alongside grilled meats, seafood, or Mediterranean dips like tzatziki.
• Light Lunch: Pair with a slice of crusty bread for a simple, satisfying meal.
• Picnic-Friendly: Keep dressing separate, then toss just before serving to maintain freshness.

Fun Facts About Greek Salad

• Greek salad is traditionally called Horiatiki salad, meaning “village salad.”
• The classic version has no lettuce, focusing instead on fresh vegetables and feta.
• Olive oil is considered the heart of Greek cuisine, and using extra virgin olive oil is essential.
• In Greece, salad is often served before the main meal, providing a refreshing palate cleanser.

Nutritional Benefits

Greek salad is not only flavorful but also packed with nutrients:

• Vitamins & Minerals: Tomatoes and cucumbers provide vitamin C and potassium, while olives and olive oil offer heart-healthy fats.
• Protein: Feta cheese contributes a source of protein and calcium.
• Low Calories: This salad is light yet filling, perfect for anyone seeking a healthy Mediterranean diet option.

Storing and Make-Ahead Tips

• Short-Term Storage: Keep prepared vegetables in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 1 day.
• Dressing Storage: Homemade dressing can be made in advance and stored for up to 1 week.
• Avoid sogginess: Always add dressing right before serving to maintain the crispness of the vegetables.

Why Easy Greek Salad Is Perfect Year-Round

Greek salad is versatile and refreshing, making it suitable for every season:

• Summer: Serve chilled for a cooling, hydrating dish.
• Winter: Brighten up meals with fresh, crisp flavors amid heavier winter fare.
• Holidays & Gatherings: Its colorful presentation makes it a beautiful addition to any table.

With just a handful of fresh ingredients, Easy Greek Salad offers bold flavors, satisfying textures, and an authentic taste of Greece. Try it today for a healthy, vibrant dish that’s as beautiful as it is delicious!

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Easy Greek Salad

A fresh, vibrant Greek salad with cucumbers, tomatoes, olives, and feta cheese dressed in a simple olive oil vinaigrette.

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 15 minutes mins

Total Time 15 minutes mins

Servings: 4 servings

Course: Side Dish, Snack

Cuisine: Greek, Mediterranean

Calories: 180

Ingredients

  

Vegetables

• 2 cups cherry tomatoes halved
• 1 cucumber sliced into half-moons
• 1 red onion thinly sliced
• 0.5 cup Kalamata olives pitted
• 0.5 cup feta cheese crumbled
• 0.25 cup extra virgin olive oil
• 2 tbsp red wine vinegar
• 1 tsp dried oregano
• to taste salt and pepper
• 0.5 green bell pepper optional, sliced
• fresh parsley or basil optional garnish

Equipment

• Mixing bowls
• Cutting board
• Knife
• Serving bowl

Method

 

1. Wash and halve cherry tomatoes. Slice cucumber into half-moons. Thinly slice red onion and optional bell pepper.
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine vegetables and olives. Gently toss to mix.
3. Sprinkle crumbled feta over the salad.
4. Whisk olive oil, red wine vinegar, oregano, salt, and pepper in a small bowl.
5. Pour dressing over salad and gently toss to coat.
6. Garnish with fresh parsley or basil if desired and serve immediately.

Notes

For best results, serve immediately after tossing with dressing to maintain crispness.