Authentic Greek Salad Recipe

Ingredients

  • 2 large ripe tomatoes
  • 1 cucumber
  • 1 small red onion
  • 1 green bell pepper
  • 1/2 cup Kalamata olives, pitted
  • 1/2 cup feta cheese, crumbled
  • 1/4 cup extra-virgin olive oil
  • 2 tablespoons red wine vinegar
  • 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Steps and instructions

  1. Wash and chop the tomatoes, cucumber, red onion, and green bell pepper into bite-sized pieces.
  2. Place the chopped vegetables in a large salad bowl.
  3. Add the Kalamata olives and crumbled feta cheese to the salad bowl.
  4. In a separate bowl, mix together the extra-virgin olive oil, red wine vinegar, dried oregano, salt, and pepper to create the dressing.
  5. Pour the dressing over the salad and gently toss to combine.
  6. Serve immediately, or refrigerate for an hour to let the flavors meld together before serving.

Tools for making

  • Cutting board - Used for chopping vegetables.
  • Knife - Needed for cutting the tomatoes, cucumber, and onion.
  • Salad bowl - A large bowl for mixing and serving the salad.
  • Salad tongs - Optional but helpful for tossing and serving the salad.
  • Measuring cup - Used to measure the olive oil and vinegar for the dressing.
  • Whisk or fork - To mix the dressing ingredients together.

Recipe variations

  • Add chopped fresh herbs like mint, parsley, or dill for added freshness.
  • Incorporate some sliced or diced avocado for a creamy twist.
  • Include some roasted red peppers for a smoky flavor.
  • Add some grilled chicken or shrimp for a protein-packed option.
  • Replace the feta cheese with goat cheese for a tangy variation.
  • Include some diced artichoke hearts for an extra burst of flavor.
  • Replace the red wine vinegar with lemon juice for a citrusy kick.
  • Add some sliced radishes for a peppery crunch.
  • For a vegan version, omit the feta cheese and add marinated tofu cubes instead.
  • Top the salad with some toasted pine nuts or sunflower seeds for added texture.

Recipe overview

This classic Greek Salad recipe offers a delightful blend of fresh vegetables, tangy olives, and creamy feta cheese, all tossed in a flavorful homemade dressing. It's a refreshing and healthy side dish that's perfect for any meal, and can be put together in just a few simple steps. The key ingredients are typical of Mediterranean cuisine, providing a mix of textures and flavors that are simultaneously robust and refreshing. Whether you're new to Greek cuisine or an experienced cook, this recipe is sure to become a favorite in your kitchen. Enjoy this Greek Salad on its own as a light lunch, or pair it with your favorite main dish for a complete Mediterranean feast.

Common questions

  1. Can I use cherry tomatoes instead of regular tomatoes?
    Yes, you can use cherry tomatoes instead of regular tomatoes in this recipe. Just make sure to cut them in half or quarters, depending on their size.
  2. Can I substitute any other cheese for feta?
    While feta cheese is traditional for Greek Salad, you can substitute it with other crumbly cheeses like goat cheese or even cubed fresh mozzarella.
  3. Can I add any other vegetables to the salad?
    Absolutely! Greek Salad is versatile, and you can add or substitute vegetables according to your preference. Some common additions include radishes, thinly sliced carrots, or even avocado.
  4. What can I serve Greek Salad with?
    Greek Salad is a great side dish that pairs well with grilled meats like chicken, lamb, or fish. It can also be served as a light lunch or dinner on its own.
  5. How long can I store Greek Salad in the refrigerator?
    Greek Salad is best enjoyed fresh, but it can be stored covered in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Keep in mind that the vegetables might become softer and lose some of their crispness over time.

Serving dishes and utensils

  • Salad bowl - A large bowl to mix and serve the Greek salad.
  • Cutting board - A sturdy surface for chopping the vegetables.
  • Knife - A sharp knife for cutting the tomatoes, cucumber, onion, and bell pepper.
  • Salad servers - Utensils used for tossing and serving the salad.
  • Measuring cup - To measure the olive oil and red wine vinegar for the dressing.
  • Whisk - To mix the dressing ingredients together.

Origin stories

Greek salad, or "Horiatiki Salata", is a staple in Greek cuisine, embodying the simplicity and freshness of Mediterranean food. It was originally a way for Greek farmers to make a quick meal using the fresh ingredients they had on hand: tomatoes, cucumbers, onions, olives, and a slice of homemade cheese. The salad was traditionally served in a flat basket or on a platter, not mixed, but arranged in layers so that each ingredient could be savored separately or together. This practice is still followed in many parts of Greece today. Interestingly, the addition of lettuce is an American variation, as traditional Greek salad does not contain lettuce. The story of Greek salad is a testament to the beauty of simplicity, freshness, and the importance of using what's available and in season.

Disclaimer: This recipe was not created by humans and we cannot ensure that it will turn out as expected. We do not guarantee or take any liability for the accuracy of this recipe (including steps, ingredients, nutritional information, and all sections on this page). You should check to make sure you are not allergic to any ingredients and take safety precautions while making this. The images on this page are generated by AI and may not accurately represent the result of making this recipe.