Name: Refreshing Greek Salad
Prep time: 15 min
Total time: 15 min
Ingredients: 1 large English cucumber, sliced into thick half moons; 2 cups cherry tomatoes, halved; 1 small red onion, thinly sliced; 1 medium green bell pepper, sliced; 1 cup black olives, whole and pitted; 200 grams feta cheese, cut into large cubes; 3 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil; 1 tablespoon red wine vinegar; 1 teaspoon dried oregano; 1/4 teaspoon salt; 1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper

There’s nothing quite like a refreshing Greek Salad to brighten up your meal. With its vibrant mix of colors and flavors, this salad is not only appealing to the eye but also a joy to eat. The combination of crisp cucumber, juicy cherry tomatoes, and creamy feta cheese harmonizes beautifully, creating a dish that is both nutritious and satisfying. The dressing—made with extra virgin olive oil and a splash of red wine vinegar—adds a zesty finish that brings all the components together.

Whether you’re planning a summer picnic, hosting a dinner party, or simply looking for a quick and healthy side dish, this Greek Salad fits the bill perfectly. It’s incredibly easy to prepare, taking only about 15 minutes from start to finish! Plus, it’s packed with fresh vegetables that are beneficial for your health. Enjoy it as a standalone dish or serve it alongside grilled meats for a complete meal. This versatile salad ensures you’re getting your vitamins while indulging in delightful Mediterranean flavors.

Why You’ll Love This Greek Salad

Quick and Easy: This salad can be whipped up in just 15 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
Healthy Ingredients: Packed with fresh vegetables, olives, and feta, this dish is not only delicious but also nutritious.
Customizable: Feel free to add or substitute your favorite ingredients—there’s no wrong way to enjoy a Greek Salad!
Great for Sharing: Perfect for potlucks, barbecues, or family gatherings, this salad serves well in larger quantities.
Flavorful: The combination of herbs, olive oil, and vinegar creates a bright, satisfying flavor profile that is sure to impress.

Preparation Phase & Tools to Use

To create a delightful Greek Salad, start by prepping your kitchen and gathering all necessary ingredients. Ensure you have a large mixing bowl for tossing the salad and a smaller bowl for whisking the dressing. A good sharp knife will make slicing vegetables easy, while a cutting board provides a safe surface for preparation.

Consider chilling your serving bowl in the refrigerator beforehand, as it enhances the freshness when serving. Chilled vegetables can also elevate the salad’s crispness, making every bite feel refreshing. Keep your workspace organized to streamline the prep process and ensure your ingredients remain fresh and appealing. With everything ready to go, you’ll be able to create a beautiful salad in no time!

Ingredients

1 large English cucumber, sliced into thick half moons
2 cups cherry tomatoes, halved
1 small red onion, thinly sliced
1 medium green bell pepper, sliced
1 cup black olives, whole and pitted
200 grams feta cheese, cut into large cubes
3 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
1 tablespoon red wine vinegar
1 teaspoon dried oregano
1/4 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper

Instructions

Step 1: Chilling the Bowls

Start by chilling a serving bowl in the refrigerator for about 10 minutes. This small step will significantly enhance the freshness of your Greek Salad and keep the ingredients crisp, especially if served during warmer months.

Step 2: Prepare the Vegetables

In a large mixing bowl, combine the sliced cucumber, halved cherry tomatoes, thinly sliced red onion, and sliced green bell pepper. Ensure the bowl is spacious enough for easy tossing to prevent bruising the delicate vegetables. Gently mix the veggies, ensuring an even distribution of colors and flavors throughout.

Step 3: Adding the Olives and Feta

Next, introduce the whole pitted black olives into the mix and carefully layer the cubed feta cheese on top. It’s important to add the feta last to avoid breaking the cubes, so they maintain their lovely shape and creamy texture.

Step 4: Whisking the Dressing

In a separate small bowl, whisk together the extra virgin olive oil, red wine vinegar, dried oregano, salt, and freshly ground black pepper. Drizzle the dressing evenly over the salad ingredients, ensuring a thorough coating without over-saturating any single item.

Step 5: Toss Lightly and Serve

Gently toss the salad with your hands or a large fork to coat the vegetables and feta with the dressing. Be careful not to break up the feta too much! Serve immediately to enjoy the rich, vibrant flavors and the perfect crunch of each element in the salad.

Variations

Protein: Add grilled chicken, shrimp, or chickpeas for added protein.
Vegetables: Substitute or add ingredients like radishes, artichoke hearts, or various greens.
Spices: Incorporate a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes for added heat, or add a sprinkle of fresh herbs like parsley or dill for a fragrant twist.

Cooking Notes

Chill vegetables before assembling for maximum crispness.
Adjust the feta amount based on personal preference or dietary needs.
Consider using different varieties of olives for unique flavor profiles.
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
Taste before adding extra salt, as olives and feta cheese can be naturally salty.

Serving Suggestions

Pair the Greek Salad with grilled meats like chicken or steak for a satisfying meal.
Serve it as a refreshing side dish alongside sandwiches or wraps.
Enjoy it as part of a Mediterranean-inspired buffet alongside pita bread and hummus.

Tips

For the best flavor, allow your salad to sit for a few minutes after dressing to let the ingredients marinate slightly.
Use high-quality olive oil and vinegar to enhance the salad’s overall taste.
Cut the onion very thin to avoid overpowering the salad’s flavor.
If you prefer a tangier salad, add a bit more red wine vinegar to the dressing.
Feel free to experiment with different cheese varieties, such as goat cheese, for a different flavor dimension.

Prep Time, Cook Time, Total Time

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 0 minutes
Total Time: 15 minutes

Nutritional Information

Calories: 220
Protein: 6g
Sodium: 480mg

FAQs

How long can I store leftovers of Greek Salad?

Leftover Greek Salad can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. However, for the best taste and texture, it is preferred to consume it fresh.

Can I add other ingredients to Greek Salad?

Absolutely! Greek Salad is very versatile. You can add proteins like grilled chicken or shrimp, or mix in different vegetables and cheeses to suit your taste.

What can I serve with Greek Salad?

Greek Salad pairs wonderfully with grilled meats, pita bread, or as a refreshing side for sandwiches or light wraps.

Is Greek Salad healthy?

Yes! Greek Salad is generally low in calories and packed with nutritious vegetables, healthy fats from olive oil, and protein from feta cheese, making it a wholesome choice for any meal.

Conclusion

In conclusion, a Greek Salad is not just a side dish; it’s a celebration of Mediterranean flavors. This vibrant and fresh dish combines the best of seasonal vegetables and ensures a delightful burst of taste in every bite. Whether you’re making it for yourself or for guests, its appeal lies in its simple yet satisfying composition. Don’t hesitate to try variations—experiment with various ingredients and find your perfect blend! We encourage you to make this easy recipe a staple in your kitchen. Share your thoughts and experiences in the comments below, and let us know how you customized your Greek Salad. Enjoy every crisp bite!