Greek Village Salad (Horiatiki) Recipe

If you’re craving a salad that sings with fresh, vibrant Mediterranean flavors, you absolutely have to try the Greek Village Salad (Horiatiki). This rustic dish is a celebration of juicy tomatoes, crisp cucumbers, sharp red onion, and briny Kalamata olives, all crowned with a thick slab of creamy feta cheese. What makes this salad truly special is its simplicity—each ingredient shines through, delivering both bold taste and satisfying textures without any fuss. It’s the perfect way to bring a little sunshine and warmth to your table with every bite.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The beauty of the Greek Village Salad (Horiatiki) lies in its simplicity, requiring just a handful of fresh, wholesome ingredients that come together to create an explosion of flavor and color. Each ingredient plays a crucial role—from the ripe tomatoes bursting with sweetness to the rich, crumbly feta offering a salty contrast.

• 3 large tomatoes, wedges: Choose ripe, juicy tomatoes for maximum flavor and vibrant color.
• 1 cucumber, sliced: Adds a refreshing crunch that balances the salad’s richness.
• 1/2 red onion, thinly sliced: Provides a mild sharpness and beautiful purple hue.
• 10 Kalamata olives: These add a briny, fruity tang that is simply irresistible.
• 100 g feta block: Use a thick piece for that creamy, salty finish essential to this salad.
• 3 tbsp olive oil: High-quality extra virgin olive oil enhances every bite with its fruity and peppery notes.
• 1 tsp dried oregano: A classic herb that ties all the Mediterranean flavors together.
• Salt: Simple seasoning to bring out the natural flavors of the ingredients.

How to Make Greek Village Salad (Horiatiki)

Step 1: Prepare and Arrange the Vegetables

Start by washing and cutting the tomatoes into generous wedges to provide juicy bursts in every forkful. Slice the cucumber into thin rounds to offer a crisp texture, and thinly slice the red onion to add a gentle sharpness without being overwhelming. Arrange these fresh vegetables neatly on a large platter, creating a colorful and inviting base for the salad.

Step 2: Add the Olives and Feta

Scatter the Kalamata olives over the bed of vegetables, making sure they are evenly distributed so every bite has a touch of briny goodness. Then, place a thick block or large chunks of feta cheese right on top; the creamy, salty feta perfectly complements the fresh vegetables and adds a hearty element.

Step 3: Drizzle Olive Oil and Season

Finish your Greek Village Salad (Horiatiki) by drizzling all over the three tablespoons of high-quality olive oil. This brings the ingredients together with luscious richness. Sprinkle dried oregano evenly to infuse the salad with that unmistakable Mediterranean aroma. Add a pinch of salt, but remember the feta is salty already—so season gently to taste.

How to Serve Greek Village Salad (Horiatiki)

Garnishes

To elevate the salad’s presentation and flavor, consider adding a few fresh parsley or mint leaves atop the salad. These fresh herbs provide a lovely burst of color and add a subtle freshness that complements the existing flavors perfectly without overpowering them.

Side Dishes

The Greek Village Salad (Horiatiki) pairs beautifully with a variety of Mediterranean mains. Serve it alongside grilled lamb chops, lemon-roasted chicken, or a hearty moussaka. It’s also fantastic with simple pita bread and tzatziki for a lighter, vegetarian-friendly meal.

Creative Ways to Present

For a fun twist, serve the salad in individual small bowls or even inside hollowed-out tomatoes or cucumbers. You can also add a rustic element by placing it in a large wooden bowl and letting guests help themselves, which adds a lovely communal feel to the meal. A drizzle of balsamic reduction can create a stunning presentation and introduce a hint of sweetness.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you have any leftovers, cover the salad tightly with plastic wrap or transfer it to an airtight container and keep it refrigerated. It’s best enjoyed within one to two days, as cucumbers and tomatoes tend to release water and make the salad a bit soggy over time.

Freezing

Freezing the Greek Village Salad (Horiatiki) is not recommended because fresh vegetables like tomatoes and cucumbers will lose their texture and become mushy when thawed. It’s always best to enjoy this salad fresh.

Reheating

This salad is meant to be served cold or at room temperature, so reheating isn’t applicable. Simply bring it out of the fridge about 15 minutes before serving to allow the flavors to bloom naturally.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of cheese instead of feta?

Feta is traditional for Greek Village Salad (Horiatiki) because of its salty and crumbly texture, but if you want a milder alternative, try halloumi or ricotta salata. They won’t be exactly the same but will still work well with the flavors.

Should the vegetables be peeled for this salad?

It’s best to leave the cucumber skin on for added crunch and nutrients. Make sure to wash all the vegetables thoroughly before cutting to keep that fresh, crisp texture intact.

Is Greek Village Salad (Horiatiki) always served with dressing?

This salad doesn’t need a separate dressing. The olive oil, oregano, and natural juice from the tomatoes act as a delicious, natural dressing that ties everything together perfectly.

Can I make this salad vegan?

Absolutely! To make a vegan version, simply omit the feta cheese or substitute it with a plant-based cheese alternative. The rest of the salad remains perfectly fresh and flavorful.

How do I keep the salad from getting watery?

To reduce excess moisture, drain the feta if it’s in brine and pat the tomatoes dry with a paper towel before assembling. You can also serve the salad immediately after preparing it for best texture.

Final Thoughts

Greek Village Salad (Horiatiki) feels like a breath of fresh air on any table, bringing together the heart of Mediterranean flavors with the ease of a simple recipe. Whether you’re looking to brighten a summer lunch or add a vibrant side to dinner, this salad delivers every time. Don’t hesitate — dive into this colorful, crunchy, and utterly delicious salad and discover why it’s such a beloved classic!