Classic Greek Salad

A Classic Greek Salad is a refreshing and vibrant dish that transports you straight to the sunny shores of Greece. With crisp cucumbers, juicy cherry tomatoes, briny olives, and creamy feta cheese, it’s a delightful combination of fresh ingredients that burst with flavor. Tossed in a simple olive oil and red wine vinegar dressing, this salad is perfect for lunch, a light dinner, or as a side to your favorite Mediterranean meal. Whether you’re serving it at a summer gathering or enjoying it as a quick and healthy meal, this salad is always a hit!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Greek salad is not only delicious but also incredibly easy to prepare. With just a handful of fresh ingredients and a simple dressing, it’s a dish that comes together in minutes. The combination of crunchy vegetables, salty feta, and tangy olives makes every bite satisfying and full of flavor. Plus, it’s versatile—you can easily customize the salad by adding or swapping ingredients based on your preference. Serve it as a light meal on its own, or pair it with grilled meats for a complete Mediterranean feast!

The Recipe

Ingredients:

• 2 cups cucumber, sliced
• 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
• ½ red onion, sliced
• ¼ cup Kalamata olives
• ¼ cup green olives
• ½ cup feta cheese, cubed
• 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped
• ¼ teaspoon dried oregano
• Salt & pepper, to taste
• 2 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 tablespoon red wine vinegar

Step-by-Step Instructions:

1. Prepare the vegetables: In a large salad bowl, combine the sliced cucumber, halved cherry tomatoes, and sliced red onion.
2. Add the olives and feta: Toss in the Kalamata olives, green olives, and cubed feta cheese.
3. Season and add herbs: Sprinkle the chopped fresh parsley and dried oregano over the salad. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Make the dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil and red wine vinegar until well combined.
5. Dress the salad: Pour the dressing over the salad and gently toss to coat all the ingredients evenly.
6. Serve: Serve the salad immediately as a light meal or side dish. Enjoy the fresh, vibrant flavors!

Serving and Storage Tips

• Serving: This salad is best served fresh, but you can chill it for about 10-15 minutes before serving if you prefer it cold. It pairs perfectly with grilled meats, pita bread, or as part of a larger Mediterranean spread.
• Storage: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. If making ahead, keep the dressing separate and add it just before serving to maintain the salad’s crisp texture.

Helpful Notes

• For added flavor, you can include a splash of lemon juice or a handful of fresh mint leaves.
• Make sure to use high-quality extra-virgin olive oil and authentic Greek feta cheese for the best taste.
• If you’re not a fan of raw red onions, soak them in cold water for 10 minutes before adding to the salad to reduce their sharpness.

FAQs

1. Can I add more vegetables to this salad?
Yes, feel free to add bell peppers, avocado, or even lettuce if you like. Just be mindful that additional ingredients may alter the traditional Greek salad profile.

2. How do I keep the salad from getting soggy?
To keep the salad crisp, avoid adding the dressing until just before serving. If you plan to store leftovers, keep the dressing separate.

3. Can I use a different type of cheese?
Feta is traditional, but you can substitute it with goat cheese or even omit it for a dairy-free version. Just keep in mind that feta adds a unique briny flavor to the dish.

4. Is there a substitute for red wine vinegar?
Yes, you can use lemon juice or white wine vinegar as a substitute. Lemon juice will add a brighter, more citrusy flavor.

5. Can I make this salad ahead of time?
You can prep the vegetables ahead of time and store them in the refrigerator, but wait to add the dressing and feta until just before serving for the best texture and flavor.

Final Thoughts

This Classic Greek Salad is a refreshing and easy dish that’s perfect for any occasion. With its vibrant colors and bold flavors, it’s sure to become a favorite in your recipe collection. Serve it alongside grilled meats, or enjoy it on its own as a light and satisfying meal. No matter how you serve it, this Greek salad brings a taste of the Mediterranean to your table with every delicious bite!