Greek Salad Recipe

If you’re craving a refreshing, vibrant dish that bursts with Mediterranean sunshine in every bite, look no further than this timeless Greek Salad. With crisp cucumbers, juicy tomatoes, briny olives, and creamy feta cheese all tossed together with fragrant oregano and a generous drizzle of olive oil, this Greek Salad is the perfect balance of bright flavors and satisfying textures. Simple, quick, and utterly delicious, it’s an unbeatable go-to whether you need a light lunch, a colorful side, or a healthy snack that feels like a mini vacation.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering the ingredients for this Greek Salad is incredibly straightforward, but each one plays an important role in creating that harmonious flavor profile and beautiful presentation. From the fresh veggies to the salty feta, every component adds its own delightful personality to the mix.

• 2 Tomatoes: Choose ripe, juicy tomatoes for a burst of sweetness and acidity that wakes up every bite.
• 1 Cucumber: Crisp and cooling, cucumbers bring a fresh crunch and slight herbal note.
• 1/4 Cup Olives: Opt for Kalamata or another briny variety to introduce a savory depth.
• 1/4 Cup Feta: Crumbled feta adds a creamy, tangy richness that perfectly complements the vegetables.
• Olive Oil: A high-quality extra virgin olive oil ties the salad together with its fruity, peppery essence.
• Oregano: Sprinkle in dried oregano for an authentic Greek flair that brightens every element.
• Salt: Just a pinch enhances the natural flavors and balances the salad beautifully.

How to Make Greek Salad

Step 1: Chop the Vegetables

Start by washing the tomatoes and cucumber thoroughly. Dice the tomatoes into bite-sized pieces, making sure to keep the juice and seeds as they add flavor. Slice the cucumber into thin rounds or half-moons depending on your preference for texture.

Step 2: Combine Olives and Feta

Add the olives to the bowl—pitted if you prefer a smoother eating experience—and crumble the feta cheese on top. The feta’s creamy saltiness is a defining trait that will uplift the entire salad.

Step 3: Season and Dress

Sprinkle the salad with a pinch of salt and a generous amount of dried oregano. Then drizzle a good glug of olive oil over everything. Toss gently to combine all the flavors without breaking up the ingredients too much.

How to Serve Greek Salad

Garnishes

For an added touch, feel free to garnish your Greek Salad with fresh herbs like parsley or mint leaves. A few thin rings of red onion or a dash of freshly cracked black pepper can also give it a lovely extra zing.

Side Dishes

Greek Salad is a perfect companion to grilled meats, seafood, or pita bread. It pairs especially well with lemony chicken, lamb kebabs, or even a hearty slice of crusty bread to soak up the delicious dressing.

Creative Ways to Present

To jazz up your presentation, serve the Greek Salad in a large, shallow bowl or on a rustic wooden board alongside small bowls of extra olives, feta, and olive oil. You can also stuff pita pockets with the salad for a fun, portable meal.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you happen to have any Greek Salad left over, store it in an airtight container in the fridge. Because fresh tomatoes and cucumbers release water, it’s best eaten within one day to keep textures crisp and flavors vibrant.

Freezing

Freezing Greek Salad is not recommended since the fresh vegetables and feta will lose their texture and become watery upon thawing. For best results, enjoy this salad fresh.

Reheating

This Greek Salad is served cold, so reheating is not necessary. In fact, warming it up would cause the fresh ingredients to wilt and lose their bright appeal.

FAQs

Can I add other vegetables to Greek Salad?

Absolutely! While the traditional Greek Salad is simple, you can add red onions, green peppers, or even radishes for extra crunch and flavor. Just keep the balance of fresh and tangy elements in mind.

What type of feta cheese is best for Greek Salad?

The most authentic choice is a firm, crumbly feta made from sheep’s milk or a sheep-goat blend. It has a tangy salty flavor that complements the salad perfectly.

Is it okay to use bottled oregano or fresh oregano?

Dried oregano is traditional and packs a punch, but fresh oregano leaves can add a lovely aromatic freshness if you prefer. Use whichever you have on hand.

Can Greek Salad be made vegan?

Yes! Simply skip the feta or substitute it with a vegan-friendly cheese alternative or marinated tofu for a dairy-free version that still delivers plenty of flavor.

How do I keep cucumber from making the salad watery?

To reduce excess moisture, you can sprinkle sliced cucumber with a little salt and let it drain in a colander for 10 minutes before adding it to the salad. This helps keep everything crisp and fresh.

Final Thoughts

Greek Salad is such a wonderfully simple yet flavorful dish that it deserves a permanent spot in your meal rotation. Whether you’re whipping it up for a quick lunch or sharing it at a gathering, the vibrant colors and fresh ingredients are sure to bring joy to your table. Give this recipe a go and discover why Greek Salad is a cherished classic that never goes out of style.