Classic Greek Salad Recipe

Looking for a refreshing and vibrant dish? This classic Greek salad is the perfect choice! Bright, colorful vegetables and creamy feta cheese come together in a delightful combination that’s both healthy and satisfying. It’s a staple in Mediterranean cuisine and sure to impress your guests with its fresh flavors and beautiful presentation.

The best part about this Greek salad is that it’s incredibly versatile. Whether you’re serving it as a side dish, a light lunch, or a main course topped with grilled chicken or shrimp, it never disappoints. Plus, with just a handful of simple ingredients, you can whip it up in no time!

Experience the Flavors of the Mediterranean

Greek salad, a classic staple of Mediterranean cuisine, brings together fresh, vibrant ingredients that not only please the palate but also create a feast for the eyes. This dish is a delightful medley of colors and textures, featuring bright red tomatoes, crisp green cucumbers, and purple onions, all harmoniously combined with dark Kalamata olives and creamy feta cheese.

The combination of these ingredients creates a refreshing side or a light main course. Whether enjoyed on a sunny day or as part of a festive gathering, Greek salad is sure to impress. The simplicity of the ingredients allows each component to shine, making it a beloved choice for many.

Key Ingredients for a Perfect Greek Salad

The heart of a traditional Greek salad lies in its fresh produce. Ripe tomatoes provide a juicy foundation, while cucumbers add a satisfying crunch. Thinly sliced red onions contribute a touch of sharpness, complementing the briny olives.

Crumbled feta cheese is the star of the show, offering a creamy texture and a tangy flavor that elevates the salad. A generous drizzle of extra virgin olive oil ties it all together, creating a luscious dressing that enhances the overall freshness.

Preparation Made Simple

Creating a Greek salad is a quick and straightforward process. Start by preparing the vegetables: chop the tomatoes, dice the cucumbers, and slice the onions. Combine these ingredients in a large bowl along with the Kalamata olives for added depth of flavor.

Once the vegetables are mixed, gently fold in the crumbled feta cheese to avoid breaking it down too much. The final touch is the dressing, a simple blend of olive oil, red wine vinegar, dried oregano, salt, and pepper. Drizzle this over the salad and toss gently for a harmonious blend of flavors.

Garnishing for Presentation

The beauty of Greek salad lies not only in its taste but also in its presentation. Once combined, transfer the salad to a serving platter and consider garnishing with a sprinkle of fresh parsley. This adds a pop of green and an aromatic element that enhances the dining experience.

Serving the salad on a rustic wooden table evokes a Mediterranean vibe, making it feel authentic and inviting. The visual appeal combined with the fresh flavors makes it an ideal dish for entertaining guests or enjoying a refreshing meal at home.

Versatility in Serving

This vibrant bowl of Greek salad can serve various purposes, from a refreshing side dish accompanying grilled meats to a light lunch on its own. It can even be enhanced with the addition of grilled chicken or shrimp for a heartier option.

Whether served at a summer gathering, a picnic, or as part of a family meal, Greek salad seamlessly fits any occasion. Its versatility ensures it remains a favorite among those who appreciate both health and flavor.

Nutritional Benefits

Beyond its delicious taste, Greek salad offers numerous nutritional benefits. With a variety of fresh vegetables, it provides essential vitamins and minerals. The inclusion of olive oil contributes healthy fats, while feta cheese adds protein and calcium.

This salad is not only satisfying but also a light option for those mindful of their dietary choices. At just 180 calories per serving, it makes for a guilt-free addition to any meal plan.

The Ultimate Greek Salad Recipe

This Greek salad features crisp cucumbers, juicy tomatoes, red onions, Kalamata olives, and tangy feta cheese, all tossed in a zesty olive oil dressing. It’s light, refreshing, and bursting with flavor, making it a perfect addition to any meal.

Ingredients

• 2 large ripe tomatoes, chopped
• 1 large cucumber, peeled and diced
• 1 small red onion, thinly sliced
• 1 cup Kalamata olives, pitted
• 1 cup feta cheese, crumbled
• 1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil
• 2 tablespoons red wine vinegar
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)

Instructions

1. Prepare the Vegetables: In a large bowl, combine the chopped tomatoes, diced cucumber, sliced red onion, and Kalamata olives.
2. Add Feta: Gently fold in the crumbled feta cheese.
3. Make the Dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, red wine vinegar, dried oregano, salt, and pepper.
4. Combine: Drizzle the dressing over the salad and toss gently to combine, making sure not to break the feta too much.
5. Garnish and Serve: Transfer the salad to a serving platter, garnish with fresh parsley if desired, and enjoy immediately!

Cook and Prep Times

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 0 minutes
• Total Time: 10 minutes

• Servings: 4
• Calories: 180kcal
• Fat: 14g
• Protein: 5g
• Carbohydrates: 8g