Classic Greek Salad Recipe

This Classic Greek Salad is a vibrant and refreshing dish that beautifully captures the essence of Mediterranean cuisine. Perfect as a light meal or a side dish, it showcases a delightful combination of crisp cucumbers, juicy cherry tomatoes, tangy feta cheese, and briny olives. Tossed in a simple dressing made of olive oil and vinegar, seasoned with aromatic oregano and parsley, this salad brings authentic Greek flavors straight to your table.

Not only is it delicious, but this salad is also packed with fresh, healthy ingredients that can be enjoyed year-round. Whether you’re looking for a quick lunch, a side for grilled meats, or a light dinner option, this Greek salad fits the bill perfectly. Let’s dive into the details of this Mediterranean staple!

Ingredients

For the Salad:

• 2 cups cucumber, sliced: Choose fresh cucumbers for a crunchy texture. English cucumbers work well because they have fewer seeds.
• 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved: These provide a burst of sweetness. You can use a mix of colors for a vibrant look.
• 1/2 red onion, sliced: The sharpness of the red onion adds a nice contrast to the other flavors.
• 1/4 cup Kalamata olives: These dark, briny olives are a staple in Greek salads, adding depth and flavor.
• 1/4 cup green olives: Use a mix of green olives for added variety and taste.
• 1/2 cup feta cheese, cubed: Feta is essential for that authentic Greek flavor. Crumbled feta can also be used for a different texture.
• 1 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped: Fresh herbs brighten the dish and add a pop of color.
• 1/4 tsp dried oregano: Oregano is a classic herb in Greek cuisine, providing a fragrant aroma.
• Salt & pepper, to taste: Essential for enhancing the flavors of the salad.
• 2 tbsp olive oil: Extra virgin olive oil is recommended for the best flavor.
• 1 tbsp vinegar (your choice: apple cider or white vinegar): The acidity balances the richness of the olives and feta.

Instructions

Step 1: Prep the Vegetables

1. Slice the Cucumbers: Start by slicing the cucumbers into half-moons or rounds, depending on your preference. If the skin is thick, you can peel it for a milder taste.
2. Halve the Cherry Tomatoes: Cut the cherry tomatoes in half to allow their juices to mix with the other ingredients, enhancing the overall flavor of the salad.
3. Slice the Red Onion: Thinly slice the red onion. If you find raw onion too strong, soak the slices in cold water for 10 minutes to mellow their flavor before draining.
4. Cube the Feta Cheese: Cut the feta cheese into bite-sized cubes. You can crumble it if you prefer a different texture.

Step 2: Assemble the Salad

1. Combine the Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the sliced cucumbers, halved cherry tomatoes, sliced red onion, Kalamata olives, and green olives.
2. Add the Feta Cheese: Gently place the cubed feta cheese on top of the vegetable mixture. Be careful not to break it up too much; you want it to remain in chunks for a nice presentation.

Step 3: Season and Dress

1. Add Herbs and Seasoning: Sprinkle the salad with the dried oregano and freshly chopped parsley. Season with salt and pepper to taste, keeping in mind that feta and olives are already salty.
2. Drizzle with Olive Oil and Vinegar: Pour the olive oil and vinegar over the salad. Toss gently to combine, ensuring that all ingredients are well-coated without breaking the feta cheese too much.

Step 4: Serve and Enjoy

1. Presentation: Serve the Greek salad immediately for the freshest taste. You can garnish with extra parsley or a sprinkle of oregano on top for an added touch.
2. Pairing Suggestions: This salad pairs wonderfully with grilled meats, seafood, or as part of a mezze platter alongside pita bread, hummus, and tzatziki.

Nutritional Benefits

This Classic Greek Salad is not just tasty; it’s also a powerhouse of nutrition:

• Cucumbers are low in calories and high in water content, making them hydrating and refreshing.
• Tomatoes are rich in vitamins C and K, potassium, and antioxidants like lycopene, which is beneficial for heart health.
• Olives provide healthy fats, particularly monounsaturated fats, which are good for heart health.
• Feta Cheese adds protein and calcium, contributing to your daily nutrient needs.
• Fresh herbs like parsley not only enhance flavor but also pack vitamins and minerals.

Tips for the Best Greek Salad

• Use Fresh Ingredients: The quality of your ingredients makes a big difference. Opt for fresh, seasonal produce whenever possible.
• Chill Your Salad: For an extra refreshing experience, chill the salad in the refrigerator for about 30 minutes before serving. This allows the flavors to meld beautifully.
• Customize Your Salad: Feel free to customize the ingredients based on your preferences. Add bell peppers, radishes, or even grilled chicken for a heartier meal.
• Make It Ahead: You can prep the salad ingredients in advance and combine them just before serving to maintain freshness. The dressing can also be made ahead and stored in the fridge.

Variations of Greek Salad

While the classic Greek salad is delicious as is, you can experiment with variations to suit your taste:

1. Add Protein: Grilled chicken, shrimp, or chickpeas can be added to make the salad more filling.
2. Grain Bowl: Turn your Greek salad into a grain bowl by adding cooked quinoa or farro for extra fiber and protein.
3. Pasta Greek Salad: Mix in cooked pasta (like orzo or fusilli) for a heartier version that’s great for potlucks.
4. Mediterranean Quinoa Salad: Replace the base of the salad with quinoa for a gluten-free option that adds a nutty flavor.

Conclusion

This Classic Greek Salad is a delightful and versatile dish that embodies the spirit of Mediterranean cuisine. It’s easy to make, refreshing, and packed with flavor and nutrients. Whether you’re enjoying it on a warm summer day or as part of a cozy family dinner, this salad is sure to please.

Enjoy this quick and easy Mediterranean staple, and feel free to share your variations or favorite pairings!