CLASSIC GREEK SALAD
Classic Greek Salad is a refreshing, vibrant dish that originates from Greece and is known for its simple yet bold flavors.
The salad typically consists of fresh tomatoes, cucumbers, red onions, Kalamata olives, and green bell peppers, all tossed together with a generous sprinkle of oregano and drizzled with high-quality olive oil.
Feta cheese, either crumbled or served in a large block, is often placed on top of the salad.
Unlike many salads, a classic Greek salad is not served with lettuce. It’s a great option as a light side dish or a healthy main course, especially in warm weather.
The freshness of the vegetables paired with the saltiness of the feta and olives creates a perfect balance, while the olive oil and oregano tie everything together, making it a staple in Mediterranean cuisine.
Ingredients:
2 cups cucumber, sliced
1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
1/2 red onion, sliced
1/4 cup Kalamata olives
1/4 cup green olives
1/2 cup feta cheese, cubed
1 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
1/4 tsp dried oregano
Salt & pepper, to taste
2 tbsp olive oil
1 tbsp red wine vinegar
Instructions:
Prep the Vegetables:
Slice the cucumbers and red onion.
Halve the cherry tomatoes.
Cube the feta cheese.
Assemble the Salad:
In a large bowl, combine the cucumber, cherry tomatoes, red onion, Kalamata olives, and green olives.
Add the cubed feta cheese.
Season and Dress:
Sprinkle the salad with dried oregano, chopped parsley, salt, and pepper.
Drizzle with olive oil and red wine vinegar.
Toss and Serve:
Gently toss the salad to combine all the flavors.
Serve immediately and enjoy a refreshing taste of Greece!
Tips:
For extra crunch, add sliced bell peppers or radishes.
You can substitute other types of olives or cheese if you prefer.
This salad is best enjoyed fresh but can be refrigerated for up to 2 days.
Here are some variations and tips to enhance your Classic Greek Salad:
Variations:
Protein Addition: Add grilled chicken, shrimp, or lamb to turn the salad into a heartier main dish. Grilled halloumi cheese or chickpeas also work well for a vegetarian option.
Kalamata Olive Tapenade: Instead of whole olives, try adding a kalamata olive tapenade for a more intense olive flavor throughout the salad.
Add Fresh Herbs: Boost the flavor with fresh herbs like dill, mint, or oregano. These will add a refreshing, aromatic touch to the salad.
Different Cheeses: While feta is traditional, you can experiment with other cheeses like crumbled goat cheese or even cubes of graviera (a Greek cheese) for a different taste and texture.
Vinaigrette Variations: Use a lemon vinaigrette or add a splash of red wine vinegar for a tangier dressing. You can also infuse the olive oil with garlic or oregano for extra depth.
Roasted Vegetables: Try roasting the tomatoes, peppers, or onions for a slightly different take on the salad, bringing out the sweetness of the vegetables.
Quinoa or Couscous: For a grain-based twist, add cooked quinoa or couscous to the salad to make it more filling and create a Greek-inspired grain bowl.
Tips:
Use High-Quality Olive Oil: Since the dressing is simple, the quality of your olive oil matters. Opt for extra virgin olive oil for the best flavor.
Fresh Ingredients Are Key: A Greek salad shines with fresh ingredients. Use ripe, in-season tomatoes, crisp cucumbers, and fresh herbs for the most authentic taste.
Salting Tomatoes: Lightly salt the tomatoes before adding them to the salad to draw out their juices, which enhances the flavor and blends well with the dressing.
Cut Veggies in Large Chunks: Traditionally, the vegetables are cut into larger, rustic pieces rather than finely chopped. This adds to the salad’s hearty and authentic feel.
Don’t Overdress: Greek salad isn’t meant to be drenched in dressing. Use just enough to coat the vegetables without overpowering their natural flavors.
Serve Immediately: Greek salad is best when fresh. Serve it right after assembling to keep the vegetables crisp and the flavors vibrant.
Marinate the Onions: If you find raw onions too sharp, marinate them in lemon juice or vinegar for 10 minutes before adding them to the salad. This reduces their bite.
These variations and tips will help you customize your Greek salad while keeping it fresh and authentic!
Enjoy your vibrant and flavorful Greek Salad!