Authentic Greek Salad

An authentic Greek salad is a refreshing and vibrant dish that’s a perfect balance of crisp vegetables, briny olives, creamy feta cheese, and a tangy dressing. With its fresh and simple ingredients, this salad captures the essence of Mediterranean cuisine and is ideal as a side dish or a light meal on warm days.

this Recipe

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Greek salad is all about fresh, quality ingredients and bold flavors. The crunch of cucumber, the sweetness of ripe tomatoes, and the tanginess of red onions combine beautifully with the creamy feta and briny olives. The dressing made with olive oil, lemon, and oregano ties it all together in a simple yet delicious way. It’s quick to prepare, incredibly flavorful, and full of healthy ingredients that will leave you feeling satisfied.

Ingredients

• 3 medium tomatoes, chopped
• 1 cucumber, peeled and sliced
• 1/2 red onion, thinly sliced
• 1/2 green bell pepper, sliced (optional)
• 1/4 cup Kalamata olives, pitted
• 1/4 cup extra-virgin olive oil
• 1-2 tbsp red wine vinegar
• 1 tsp dried oregano
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 1 block (200g) feta cheese, cut into large cubes or left whole
• Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

1. In a large bowl, combine the chopped tomatoes, cucumber slices, red onion, and green bell pepper (if using). Add the Kalamata olives.
2. Drizzle the olive oil and red wine vinegar over the vegetables. Sprinkle with dried oregano, and season with salt and pepper to taste.
3. Gently toss the ingredients together to coat the vegetables in the dressing.
4. Place the feta cheese on top of the salad. You can either crumble the feta over the salad or leave it in large blocks for a more authentic presentation.
5. Garnish with fresh parsley if desired.
6. Serve immediately and enjoy!

Servings and Timing

This recipe makes 4 servings of Greek salad.

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Total Time: 10 minutes

Variations

• Add Protein: To make the salad more filling, you can add grilled chicken, lamb, or shrimp.
• Vegetarian Version: You can add chickpeas or beans to make the salad even heartier.
• Different Olives: While Kalamata olives are traditional, you can also use green olives or a mix of both for variation.
• Add More Veggies: Try adding capers, radishes, or even a handful of arugula for extra crunch and flavor.

Storage/Reheating

Greek salad is best enjoyed fresh. However, if you have leftovers, you can store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 1 day. Be aware that the vegetables may become soggy as they release moisture. It’s best not to store the salad with the feta on top to keep the cheese fresh.

FAQs

Can I make this salad ahead of time?

Greek salad is best enjoyed fresh, but you can prepare the vegetables and store them in the fridge. Add the feta, dressing, and olives just before serving to maintain the freshness.

Can I substitute the feta cheese?

For an authentic Greek salad, feta is a must. However, if you’re looking for a substitute, you could try a mild goat cheese or a salty white cheese such as queso blanco, but it will alter the flavor profile.

Can I use a different type of olive?

Kalamata olives are traditional in a Greek salad, but you can substitute them with other varieties like green olives or mixed olives if you prefer.

How do I prevent the salad from getting soggy?

To avoid sogginess, don’t add the dressing until just before serving, and store the salad in separate containers if making ahead of time. Also, try to use firm vegetables that aren’t overly ripe.

Can I make the dressing in advance?

Yes, you can prepare the dressing (olive oil, vinegar, oregano, salt, and pepper) in advance and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week.

Is this salad vegetarian?

Yes, the authentic Greek salad is naturally vegetarian, as it contains vegetables, feta cheese, and olives.

Can I use bottled dressing for this salad?

While you can use bottled dressing in a pinch, the homemade dressing made with olive oil, red wine vinegar, oregano, salt, and pepper is much fresher and tastier. It’s quick to make and adds the perfect Mediterranean flavor.

What kind of tomatoes should I use?

Roma tomatoes or vine-ripened tomatoes work best for Greek salad because of their firm texture and slightly sweet flavor. You can use any variety of tomatoes, but avoid very juicy or overripe tomatoes, as they can make the salad watery.

How can I make this salad spicier?

If you enjoy a bit of heat, add a few red pepper flakes to the dressing or toss in some sliced jalapeños for a spicy twist.

Can I add grains to this salad to make it a main dish?

Yes, you can add cooked quinoa, couscous, or bulgur to make the salad more filling and transform it into a hearty main course.

Conclusion

An authentic Greek salad is a simple yet incredibly flavorful dish that’s perfect for any occasion. Its combination of fresh vegetables, tangy feta cheese, and briny olives, all dressed in a zesty olive oil dressing, captures the essence of Mediterranean cuisine. Whether served as a side or a main dish, it’s a timeless recipe that everyone will love. Enjoy this salad as a refreshing, h