Greek salad is a vibrant and refreshing dish that takes you straight to the sunny shores of Greece with every bite.
Bursting with fresh vegetables, tangy feta cheese, and a drizzle of olive oil, this salad is not only easy to prepare but also packed with flavor and nutrition.
Whether you’re hosting a summer gathering or simply craving something light yet satisfying, this recipe will surely delight your taste buds.
Serves: 4 persons
Difficulty: Easy
Prep time: 15 minutes
Cooking time: 0 minutes (no cooking required!)
Total time: 15 minutes
Health Benefits of Greek Salad
Why This Dish Is Good for You
Greek salad is more than just a delicious appetizer; it’s a powerhouse of nutrients. The combination of fresh vegetables provides essential vitamins and antioxidants, while the feta cheese offers calcium and protein.
Olive oil, a staple ingredient in Mediterranean cuisine, contains healthy fats that support heart health. Plus, its low-calorie nature makes it an excellent choice for those looking to maintain a balanced diet without sacrificing flavor.
Ingredients
- 2 large cucumbers, sliced
- 2 medium tomatoes, chopped
- 1 green bell pepper, diced
- 1 red onion, thinly sliced
- 1 cup crumbled feta cheese
- 1/4 cup Kalamata olives, pitted
- 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
- 1 tablespoon red wine vinegar
- Fresh oregano leaves (optional)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
Execution
- Prepare the Vegetables: Begin by washing all the vegetables thoroughly. Slice the cucumbers into half-moons, chop the tomatoes into bite-sized pieces, dice the green bell pepper, and thinly slice the red onion. Place them in a large mixing bowl.
- Add the Cheese and Olives: Sprinkle the crumbled feta cheese over the vegetables, followed by the pitted Kalamata olives. Gently toss everything together to combine.
- Make the Dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together the extra virgin olive oil, red wine vinegar, salt, and pepper until well combined. Drizzle this dressing generously over the salad.
- Finish with Herbs: If using fresh oregano, tear the leaves and sprinkle them on top of the salad for added aroma and flavor. Give the salad one final gentle toss before serving.
Additional Tips
- For an extra burst of freshness, add some halved cherry tomatoes or thinly sliced radishes.
- To make the salad more filling, consider adding grilled chicken, shrimp, or chickpeas.
- Always use high-quality ingredients, especially when it comes to the olive oil and feta cheese, as they significantly impact the overall taste.
