If you’re on the hunt for a fresh, vibrant salad that packs a punch in both flavor and nutrition, you’ve come to the right place. Greek salad is a timeless classic, celebrated for its crisp vegetables, tangy feta cheese, and zesty dressing. It’s the perfect dish for a quick lunch, a light dinner, or a delightful side at your next gathering. Let’s dive into a Greek salad recipe that’s easy to make and guaranteed to impress.

Ingredients:

  1. Cucumbers: 1 large, diced
  2. Tomatoes: 2-3 medium, chopped
  3. Red Onion: 1 small, thinly sliced
  4. Kalamata Olives: 1/2 cup, pitted
  5. Feta Cheese: 1/2 cup, crumbled
  6. Green Bell Pepper: 1, sliced
  7. Fresh Parsley: 2 tablespoons, chopped

For the Dressing:

  • Olive Oil: 1/4 cup
  • Lemon Juice: 2 tablespoons (or red wine vinegar)
  • Garlic: 1 clove, minced
  • Dried Oregano: 1 teaspoon
  • Salt: to taste
  • Black Pepper: to taste

Instructions:

  1. Prepare the Vegetables: Start by washing and dicing your cucumbers and tomatoes. You can peel the cucumbers if you prefer, but the skin adds a nice crunch and color. Chop the tomatoes into bite-sized pieces. Slice the red onion thinly and slice the green bell pepper into strips. Combine all these ingredients in a large salad bowl.
  2. Add the Olives and Cheese: Toss in the Kalamata olives and crumble the feta cheese over the top. The olives add a salty, briny flavor, while the feta provides a creamy, tangy contrast.
  3. Make the Dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, lemon juice (or vinegar), minced garlic, dried oregano, salt, and black pepper. Taste and adjust the seasoning as needed. If you like a bit more tang, add a touch more lemon juice or vinegar.
  4. Combine and Serve: Drizzle the dressing over the salad and toss gently to combine. Be careful not to over-mix, as you want to keep the integrity of the vegetable chunks and feta cheese. Garnish with fresh parsley for a burst of color and flavor.
  5. Chill or Serve Immediately: Greek salad can be enjoyed right away, but it also tastes even better after it’s had some time to chill. Let it sit in the fridge for about 30 minutes to let the flavors meld together.

Why This Recipe Works

greek salad

What makes this Greek salad stand out is its simplicity. The fresh vegetables are the star of the show, complemented by the creamy feta and briny olives. The dressing, made with staple pantry ingredients, ties everything together with its bright, zesty notes. This recipe is not only easy to prepare but also incredibly versatile. You can adjust the ingredients based on your preferences or what you have on hand. Add some grilled chicken or chickpeas for extra protein, or throw in some artichoke hearts for an added twist.

Tips for the Perfect Greek Salad:

  • Use Fresh Ingredients: The key to a great Greek salad is fresh, high-quality ingredients. Look for ripe tomatoes, crisp cucumbers, and a good block of feta cheese.
  • Chop Evenly: For a more visually appealing salad, try to chop your vegetables into uniform pieces. This ensures each bite has a balanced mix of flavors.
  • Customize to Your Taste: Feel free to adjust the amount of olives, cheese, or dressing based on your preferences. If you’re a fan of more tangy flavors, add extra lemon juice or vinegar to the dressing.
  • Serve Chilled: Greek salad is delicious cold, so if you’re making it ahead of time, keep it chilled until you’re ready to serve.

Final Words

This Greek salad is a celebration of fresh, vibrant ingredients and simple, wholesome flavors. Whether you’re enjoying it as a meal or a side dish, it’s a recipe that’s sure to brighten up your day. Give it a try today, and enjoy the taste of Greece in your own kitchen.