Transport yourself to the sunny shores of Greece with this vibrant and refreshing dish – Greek Salad. Bursting with colors and flavors, this classic Mediterranean recipe is a celebration of fresh ingredients and simple yet tantalizing seasonings.

Originating from Greece, this salad has become a beloved dish worldwide for its combination of crisp vegetables, tangy cheese, and zesty dressing.

Whether you’re a seasoned cook or a kitchen novice, crafting this salad is a breeze, making it perfect for any occasion, from casual lunches to elegant dinner parties.

Expert Tip: Experiment with different types of olives for added variety and depth of flavor.

Ingredients

Cherry Tomatoes: These little bursts of sweetness add juicy freshness to the salad, contrasting beautifully with the savory elements.

Cucumber: Crisp and hydrating, cucumber provides a refreshing crunch, balancing the creamy texture of the feta cheese.

Feta Cheese: A staple in Greek cuisine, feta cheese lends a creamy, tangy flavor that perfectly complements the other ingredients.

Red Onion: Sliced thinly, red onion adds a subtle bite and a pop of color to the salad, enhancing its visual appeal.

Olives: Pitted Kalamata olives contribute a briny, salty flavor, elevating the taste profile of the salad.

Green and Yellow Bell Peppers: Diced bell peppers bring a crunchy texture and sweet, mild flavor, adding depth to the salad.

Oregano: Fresh oregano infuses the salad with aromatic herbaceous notes, enhancing its Mediterranean charm.

Olive Oil: Extra-virgin olive oil forms the base of the dressing, adding richness and a fruity undertone to the salad.

Vinegar: Red wine vinegar provides acidity and a tangy kick, balancing the flavors of the salad.

Salt and Black Pepper: These seasoning staples are essential for enhancing the taste of the ingredients and bringing out their natural flavors.

Expert Tip: Don’t overdress the salad; start with a small amount of dressing and add more as needed to avoid soggy greens.

Serving Suggestions

• Present your Greek salad in a large, shallow bowl or on a platter to showcase its vibrant colors and inviting presentation.
• Garnish the salad with a few extra sprigs of fresh oregano or whole Kalamata olives for an extra touch of Mediterranean flair.
• Consider serving the salad alongside traditional Greek accompaniments such as tzatziki sauce, hummus, or grilled halloumi cheese for a complete Greek-inspired spread.
• To create an eye-catching centerpiece for a gathering, serve the Greek salad in hollowed-out bell peppers or cucumber boats, adding an element of creativity to your presentation.
• For a light and refreshing meal, pair the Greek salad with grilled seafood such as shrimp or calamari, or serve it alongside a selection of mezze dishes for a Mediterranean feast.
• To enhance the salad’s flavor, drizzle a little extra-virgin olive oil and a squeeze of lemon juice over the top just before serving, adding a final burst of freshness and acidity.
• Don’t forget to provide serving utensils and individual plates or bowls to allow guests to help themselves and enjoy this delicious and nutritious dish at their leisure.

Expert Tip: For the best flavor, use ripe, seasonal tomatoes and crisp, fresh vegetables.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make Greek salad ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the salad ingredients in advance and toss them with the dressing just before serving to keep them crisp and fresh.

Can I customize the ingredients in Greek salad?

Absolutely! Feel free to add or substitute ingredients according to your preference. Some common additions include diced avocado, capers, or fresh herbs like parsley or mint.

How long does Greek salad last in the refrigerator?

Greek salad is best enjoyed fresh but will keep in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Keep it covered to maintain its freshness.

Can I use dried oregano instead of fresh?

Yes, you can substitute dried oregano for fresh, but use it sparingly as it has a more concentrated flavor. Start with a smaller amount and adjust to taste.

Is Greek salad suitable for vegans?

While traditional Greek salad contains feta cheese, you can easily make a vegan version by omitting the cheese or using a plant-based alternative.

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Greek Salad

by Nabeela Kauser

Seeking the ideal no-fuss, nutritious dish that's bursting with Mediterranean flavours? Look no further than the delectable Greek salad! This recipe elevates any mealtime from ordinary to extraordinary.

5 from 1 vote

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Prep Time 15 minutes mins

Total Time 15 minutes mins

Course Salad, Sides

Cuisine Greek, Mediterranean

Servings 4

Calories 274 kcal

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Ingredients

• ▢ 250 g Cherry Tomatoes Halved
• ▢ 200 g Cucumber Diced
• ▢ 150 g Feta Cheese Crumbled
• ▢ 100 g Red Onion Thinly sliced
• ▢ 100 g Olives Pitted
• ▢ 1 Green Bell Pepper Diced
• ▢ 1 Yellow Bell Pepper Diced
• ▢ 1 tbsp Oregano Chopped
• ▢ 3 tbsp Olive Oil
• ▢ 2 tbsp Vinegar
• ▢ Salt To taste
• ▢ Black Pepper To taste

Instructions

• In a large bowl, combine the cherry tomatoes, cucumber, feta cheese, red onion, Kalamata olives, and both diced bell peppers.
• In a small bowl, whisk together the fresh oregano, extra-virgin olive oil, red wine vinegar, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Adjust the seasoning according to your taste.
• Pour the dressing over the salad and gently toss to coat all the ingredients evenly.
• Let the salad sit for about 10 minutes before serving to allow the flavours to meld together.
• Serve the Greek salad in individual bowls or on plates. You can also garnish it with extra oregano if desired.
• Enjoy your delicious and refreshing Greek salad!

Notes

This Greek salad is a great light meal on its own or can be served as a side dish alongside grilled meats or other Mediterranean dishes.

Feel free to customize the ingredients based on your preferences. You can add ingredients like chopped fresh parsley, capers, or even a sprinkle of dried oregano if you don’t have fresh oregano on hand.

Remember to use the metric measurements provided to ensure accurate results.

Nutritional facts:

The provision of nutritional information is done merely as a courtesy and should not be taken as a guarantee.

Nutrition

Calories: 274kcalCarbohydrates: 12gProtein: 7gFat: 23gSaturated Fat: 7gCholesterol: 33mgSodium: 829mgPotassium: 406mgFibre: 3gSugar: 4gVitamin A: 789IUVitamin C: 96mgVitamin D: 0.1µgCalcium: 244mgIron: 2mg

Keyword Food, Healthy, Recipe, Vegetables, Vegetarian

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