The Ultimate Greek Salad Recipe: Fresh, Flavorful, and Easy to Make

Imagine sitting at a sun-soaked Mediterranean café, enjoying a dish that’s as vibrant as the scenery around you. That’s the beauty of a Greek salad—a timeless classic that combines fresh, crunchy vegetables, tangy feta cheese, and briny olives in a way that instantly transports you to Greece. Whether you’re preparing lunch for yourself, hosting a summer dinner party, or looking for a quick, healthy side dish, this Greek salad recipe is your go-to.

Packed with bold flavors and fresh ingredients, Greek salad is the perfect combination of simplicity and sophistication. The best part? It’s incredibly easy to make, requiring minimal prep time and no cooking. Let’s dive into everything you need to know to create this refreshing Mediterranean dish.

Why You’ll Love This Greek Salad Recipe

• Simple and Fresh: This recipe uses just a handful of fresh, wholesome ingredients to create bold, authentic flavors.
• Healthy and Light: Packed with vegetables, heart-healthy olive oil, and protein-rich feta cheese, it’s a nutritious option for any meal.
• Versatile: Enjoy it as a side dish, a light main course, or even a topping for grilled meats.
• Quick to Make: Ready in under 15 minutes, it’s the perfect dish for busy weeknights or impromptu gatherings.
• Customizable: Add or subtract ingredients to suit your taste preferences or dietary needs.

Greek Salad Ingredients

Here’s everything you need to make an authentic Greek salad that’s bursting with flavor.

Ingredient	Details
Tomatoes	Grape or cherry tomatoes work best as they are less watery and hold their shape well.
Cucumbers	Mini cucumbers or English cucumbers for crunch; no peeling necessary.
Red Onion	Thinly sliced for a slightly sweet, crisp texture.
Bell Pepper	A crisp green bell pepper is ideal, but any color works. Slice into chunks.
Kalamata Olives	Pitted olives for ease of eating; leave whole or slice them.
Feta Cheese	Slice into 1/2-inch cubes or crumble for easier mixing.
Seasoning	Dried oregano and dried basil for classic Greek flavors.
Greek Dressing	Made with olive oil, red wine vinegar, Dijon mustard, garlic, and oregano.

How to Make Greek Salad

Step 1: Prepare the Vegetables

• Wash and dry all the vegetables.
• Slice the cherry or grape tomatoes in half.
• Cut the mini cucumbers into thin rounds or quarters.
• Slice the red onion into thin strips.
• Cut the bell pepper into bite-sized chunks.

Step 2: Assemble the Salad

• Place the prepared vegetables (tomatoes, cucumbers, onions, and bell peppers) into a large mixing bowl.
• Add the Kalamata olives and cubed feta cheese on top.

Step 3: Make the Dressing

• In a small bowl or mason jar, whisk together 1/4 cup olive oil, 2 tablespoons red wine vinegar, 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard, 1 clove minced garlic, 1 teaspoon dried oregano, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Adjust seasoning to taste.

Step 4: Toss and Garnish

• Pour the dressing over the salad and gently toss until everything is evenly coated.
• Sprinkle with additional dried oregano and fresh herbs like dill or parsley, if desired.

Step 5: Serve

• Transfer the salad to a serving dish and enjoy immediately. For the best flavor, allow it to sit for 10 minutes to let the flavors meld together.

Tips for the Perfect Greek Salad

• Use High-Quality Ingredients: Opt for fresh, ripe vegetables and a good-quality feta cheese for the best results.
• Don’t Over-Mix: Toss the salad gently to avoid breaking up the feta or bruising the vegetables.
• Chill Before Serving: Refrigerate the salad for 10–15 minutes before serving for an extra refreshing taste.
• Customize to Your Liking: Add ingredients like capers, artichoke hearts, or grilled chicken for variety.

Nutritional Information (Per Serving)

Nutrient	Amount
Calories	180
Protein	6g
Carbohydrates	8g
Fat	14g
Fiber	2g
Sodium	520mg

Ways to Enjoy Greek Salad

• As a Side Dish: Pair it with grilled meats, fish, or pasta for a complete meal.
• In a Wrap: Use it as a filling for pita bread or wraps with hummus or tzatziki sauce.
• On a Platter: Serve it as part of a mezze platter with dips, breads, and olives.
• With Protein: Top it with grilled chicken, shrimp, or tofu for a heartier dish.
• As a Light Lunch: Enjoy it on its own with crusty bread for a quick and healthy meal.

Variations to Try

• Vegan Greek Salad: Omit the feta cheese and replace it with vegan feta or extra olives.
• Hearty Greek Salad: Add quinoa or chickpeas for added protein and fiber.
• Mediterranean Twist: Include sun-dried tomatoes, artichoke hearts, or roasted red peppers.
• Spicy Version: Add a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes or thinly sliced chili peppers for a kick.

FAQs

1. Can I make Greek salad ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the vegetables and dressing in advance. Store them separately in the refrigerator and combine them just before serving to keep the vegetables crisp.

2. How do I store leftovers?

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Note that the vegetables may become softer over time.

3. Can I use other types of cheese?

While feta is traditional, you can use goat cheese or even mozzarella for a different flavor profile.

4. Is Greek salad gluten-free?

Yes, this salad is naturally gluten-free, making it a great option for those with dietary restrictions.

5. What’s the best way to slice the vegetables?

Cut the vegetables into bite-sized pieces to ensure they’re easy to eat and evenly coated in the dressing.

6. Can I use store-bought dressing?

Absolutely! While homemade dressing is recommended for the freshest flavor, a good-quality Greek dressing will work in a pinch.

What to Pair with Greek Salad

• Grilled Proteins: Pair it with grilled chicken, lamb, or salmon.
• Soup: Serve alongside a bowl of lentil soup or tomato soup for a complete meal.
• Flatbreads: Warm pita bread or garlic naan complements the salad beautifully.
• Dips: Pair it with hummus, tzatziki, or baba ganoush for a Mediterranean spread.

Final Thoughts

This Greek salad recipe is a celebration of simple, fresh ingredients and bold flavors. Whether you’re preparing it for a quick lunch, a dinner party, or a family barbecue, it’s guaranteed to impress. With minimal effort and maximum flavor, this dish proves that sometimes the best recipes are the simplest.

Ready to bring a taste of the Mediterranean to your table? Grab your fresh vegetables, mix up some dressing, and enjoy the ultimate Greek salad today!

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