Description
This Greek salad recipe is a fresh and vibrant Mediterranean dish packed with crunchy vegetables, creamy feta cheese, and tangy olives. Perfect as a side dish, light main course, or addition to any summer gathering, this salad is easy to prepare and bursting with bold flavors.
Ingredients
- 2 cups cherry or grape tomatoes, halved
- 2 mini cucumbers (or 1 English cucumber), sliced into thin rounds or quarters
- ½ red onion, thinly sliced
- 1 green bell pepper (or any color), chopped into bite-sized chunks
- ½ cup Kalamata olives, pitted (leave whole or sliced)
- ½ cup feta cheese, cubed or crumbled
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- ½ teaspoon dried basil
- ¼ cup olive oil
- 2 tablespoons red wine vinegar
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Optional garnish: fresh dill or parsley
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Vegetables
- Wash and dry all your vegetables thoroughly.
- Slice the cherry tomatoes in half.
- Cut the cucumbers into thin rounds or quarters, depending on your preference.
- Slice the red onion into thin strips for a slight crunch.
- Chop the bell pepper into bite-sized chunks.
Step 2: Assemble the Salad
- In a large bowl, combine the tomatoes, cucumbers, onions, and bell peppers.
- Add the Kalamata olives and feta cheese on top.
Step 3: Make the Dressing
- In a small bowl or mason jar, whisk together the olive oil, red wine vinegar, Dijon mustard, minced garlic, dried oregano, dried basil, and a pinch of salt and pepper.
- Taste the dressing and adjust the seasoning if necessary.
Step 4: Toss the Salad
- Pour the dressing over the salad and gently toss to coat the vegetables evenly without breaking up the feta cheese.
Step 5: Garnish and Serve
- Transfer the salad to a serving dish.
- Sprinkle additional dried oregano and garnish with fresh dill or parsley for added flavor and presentation.
- Serve immediately or let it sit for 10 minutes to let the flavors meld together.
Notes
- Storage: Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
- Make-Ahead Tip: Chop the vegetables and prepare the dressing in advance. Store them separately and toss together just before serving to maintain crispness.
- Customization: Feel free to add additional ingredients like capers, chickpeas, sun-dried tomatoes, or grilled chicken for variety.
- Vegetarian and Gluten-Free: This salad is naturally vegetarian and gluten-free, making it suitable for various dietary needs.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Salad
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: Mediterranean