Refreshing Greek Salad Recipe: A Mediterranean Delight

Name: Greek Salad
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: PT-486922H44M10S
Cuisine: Mediterranean
Ingredients: 2 cups ripe tomatoes, chopped; 1 cup English cucumber, sliced; 1/2 red onion, thinly sliced; 1/2 cup bell peppers (mixed colors), chopped; 1/2 cup Kalamata olives, pitted; 1/2 cup feta cheese, crumbled; 3 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil; 2 tablespoons lemon juice (freshly squeezed); 1 teaspoon dried oregano; Salt and pepper to taste

Recipe By:

Daniel Lawson

Posted:

July 19, 2025

Updated:

July 19, 2025

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Greek salad is a refreshing explosion of colors and flavors that dances on your palate. Imagine biting into crisp cucumbers, juicy tomatoes, and briny olives all mingling with creamy feta cheese under a drizzle of zingy olive oil. It’s like a Mediterranean party in your mouth, and trust me, you won’t want to miss the fun.

I remember the first time I made Greek salad for my friends during a summer barbecue. Their faces lit up as they took their first bites; it was love at first crunch! This dish is perfect for everything from casual picnics to festive gatherings, promising an experience that leaves everyone clamoring for seconds—maybe even thirds!

Why You'll Love This Recipe

This vibrant Greek salad takes just minutes to prepare, making it perfect for busy weeknights or last-minute gatherings

The burst of fresh flavors is irresistible and visually stunning on any dining table
Customize it with your favorite veggies or proteins for added versatility, ensuring there’s something for everyone

Sharing the Greek salad at my last gathering sparked laughter and compliments, proving that simple ingredients can create unforgettable culinary magic.

Recipe preparation

Essential Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

Ripe Tomatoes: Choose firm, juicy tomatoes for maximum flavor; heirloom varieties add a beautiful color pop.
English Cucumbers: These are less bitter and have thinner skin; slice them for a crisp texture that complements the salad.

Red Onion: Use thinly sliced red onion to add a sharp bite without overpowering the other flavors.
Bell Peppers: A mix of colors adds visual appeal and sweetness; feel free to skip them if you’re not a fan.
Kalamata Olives: Opt for pitted olives; their briny flavor brings an authentic Mediterranean touch to your salad.

Feta Cheese: Crumbled or cubed, this salty cheese elevates the dish’s creaminess; look for high-quality feta for best results.
Extra Virgin Olive Oil: Use fresh olive oil to enhance flavors; it’s the secret dressing ingredient that ties everything together.
Lemon Juice: Freshly squeezed lemon juice brightens the entire dish with zesty acidity; bottled juice just won’t cut it.

Oregano: Fresh or dried oregano adds an earthy aroma; sprinkle generously but avoid overdoing it.

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

Let’s Make it Together

Start by prepping those colorful veggies: Rinse your tomatoes and cucumbers under cold water. Chop them into bite-sized pieces—the goal here is easy eating without any acrobatics.

Combine the chopped veggies: In a large bowl, toss together your tomatoes, cucumbers, sliced red onion, and bell peppers until everything gets cozy. The colors should be bright and inviting.

Add the olives and feta: Gently fold in the Kalamata olives and crumbled feta cheese. Be careful not to crush the cheese; we want chunks of creamy goodness throughout.

Make the dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together extra virgin olive oil, freshly squeezed lemon juice, oregano, salt, and pepper. Taste as you go—it should sing with freshness!

Dress the salad: Drizzle your homemade dressing over the prepared salad. Toss gently so every piece gets coated in that zesty goodness—this is where the magic happens!

Let it chill: For maximum flavor infusion, let your Greek salad sit in the fridge for about 15-30 minutes before serving. This waiting game will pay off big time!

Serve with flair: Plate your Greek salad in a large bowl or individual portions. Garnish with extra feta or olives if you’re feeling fancy—it’s all about presentation!

And there you have it! A delightful Greek salad ready to wow your friends and family!

You Must Know

The classic Greek salad is not just a dish; it’s a celebration of fresh flavors
Using the ripest tomatoes and the crispiest cucumbers can elevate this dish to a whole new level
The vibrant colors and crunch make it a delightful addition to any meal

Perfecting the Cooking Process

To achieve perfect results, prep ingredients first: chop veggies, slice cheese, then mix dressing. This sequence ensures everything stays fresh and vibrant.

Serving and storing

Add Your Touch

Feel free to customize your Greek salad by adding grilled chicken or swapping feta for goat cheese. You could also toss in olives for an extra briny kick.

Storing & Reheating

Store leftover Greek salad in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Avoid reheating; this dish is best enjoyed cold.

Chef's Helpful Tips

To enhance your Greek salad, use high-quality olive oil for dressing
Ensure your vegetables are chilled for extra crunch and freshness

Always taste before serving to adjust seasonings as needed

It’s funny how my friends rave about my salads now, but I remember when I could barely chop an onion without shedding tears!

FAQs

FAQ

What is the best type of olive oil for Greek salad?

Use extra virgin olive oil for its rich flavor and health benefits.

Can I make Greek salad ahead of time?

Yes, prepare veggies and dressing beforehand but mix right before serving for freshness.

What can I use instead of feta cheese?

Substitute with crumbled goat cheese or even cotage cheese if preferred.

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