Classic Greek Salad

If you’re craving a fresh, vibrant dish that’s as colorful as it is delicious, then a Classic Greek Salad is exactly what you need! This salad is the perfect balance of crisp vegetables, briny olives, creamy feta, and zesty dressing. It’s light yet satisfying, and with its bright, refreshing flavors, it’ll transport you straight to the Mediterranean. Whether you’re looking for a side dish, a light lunch, or a topping for your favorite protein, this salad is bound to become a go-to favorite.

Trust me, this is one of those recipes that will have you reaching for seconds (and maybe thirds). So, let’s dive into this simple, no-fuss, and completely refreshing salad that’s packed with flavor!

Why You’ll Love Classic Greek Salad

Here’s why this Greek Salad is going to win your heart:

Fresh & Crisp

It’s the perfect medley of crunchy cucumbers, juicy tomatoes, and crisp red onions. The veggies are so fresh and juicy, they practically burst in your mouth!

Light & Healthy

Full of nutrient-packed vegetables and topped with a dollop of creamy feta cheese, this salad is as light as it is filling. You can enjoy it as a meal or a side without feeling overly stuffed.

Simple Yet Flavorful

This recipe uses basic, pantry-friendly ingredients, but it’s packed with bold Mediterranean flavors. The combination of olives, feta, and tangy dressing is absolutely mouthwatering.

Customizable

You can make this salad your own by adjusting the ingredients. Add a little more feta or throw in some grilled chicken or chickpeas for extra protein. It’s super flexible to suit your tastes!

Quick to Make

This salad is super quick to put together—just chop, mix, and toss. No cooking required, so it’s perfect when you need something fast and delicious.

Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need for this Classic Greek Salad:

For the Salad:

• Cucumbers (peeled and sliced or diced, depending on your preference)
• Tomatoes (diced or cut into wedges)
• Red Onion (thinly sliced)
• Kalamata Olives (pitted)
• Feta Cheese (block or crumbled)
• Green Bell Pepper (optional, sliced thinly)
• Fresh Oregano (or dried, for a boost of flavor)

For the Dressing:

• Extra Virgin Olive Oil (the heart of the dressing, so go for high-quality)
• Red Wine Vinegar (for that perfect tang)
• Lemon Juice (freshly squeezed)
• Garlic (minced or finely grated)
• Dried Oregano (for that Mediterranean flair)
• Salt & Pepper (to taste)

Instructions

Let’s make this fresh, bright, and flavorful Greek Salad:

Step 1: Prepare the Vegetables

Start by prepping your veggies. Slice the cucumbers, tomatoes, and red onions. If you’re using a green bell pepper, slice that as well. Toss them all into a large salad bowl.

Step 2: Add the Olives & Feta

Add a generous handful of Kalamata olives to your bowl. Then, crumble or cut up a block of feta cheese and sprinkle it over the top. This cheese adds the perfect salty, creamy flavor that makes this salad extra special.

Step 3: Make the Dressing

In a small bowl or jar, combine the olive oil, red wine vinegar, lemon juice, garlic, and oregano. Whisk or shake well until everything is nicely mixed. Taste and adjust with a pinch of salt and pepper to your liking.

Step 4: Toss the Salad

Pour the dressing over the salad and toss gently to combine. You want to make sure every bite gets a little bit of that delicious dressing, but be careful not to mush the feta too much—leave it chunky for texture.

Step 5: Serve & Enjoy

Serve the salad immediately as a side dish or main course, and enjoy the refreshing, tangy goodness! Garnish with some extra oregano if you like, or drizzle with a little more olive oil for that final touch.

Nutrition Facts

Serving Size: 1 bowl (about 1/4 of the recipe)
Calories per serving: 250
Total Fat: 22g
Saturated Fat: 6g
Sodium: 600mg
Carbohydrates: 10g
Fiber: 3g
Sugar: 5g
Protein: 6g

Preparation Time

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 0 minutes
Total Time: 10 minutes

How to Serve Classic Greek Salad

This Greek Salad is so versatile, and it pairs beautifully with just about anything! Here are a few ideas:

Serve with Grilled Meat

It’s amazing alongside grilled chicken, lamb, or even steak. The salad’s fresh flavors complement the smoky char of grilled meats perfectly.

Add Some Protein

Make it a complete meal by adding grilled shrimp, chickpeas, or chicken breast. It’ll turn into a filling, nutrient-packed lunch or dinner.

Serve as a Side

This salad is the ultimate side dish for any Mediterranean-inspired meal—serve it with moussaka, grilled fish, or a plate of hummus and pita bread for a light and healthy spread.

Enjoy with Pita Bread

Dip some warm pita bread into the salad’s juices or serve it on the side to scoop up the salad. It’s the perfect way to soak up every last bite of dressing!

Additional Tips

Use Fresh Herbs

If you have fresh oregano, parsley, or basil, feel free to toss them in for even more fresh flavor.

Add More Veggies

Feel free to throw in other veggies like cherry tomatoes, radishes, or even avocado for extra flavor and texture.

Make Ahead

This salad is great for meal prep. You can make it a few hours in advance, but it’s best to dress it right before serving to keep the veggies crisp. The dressing can also be made ahead and stored in the fridge for up to a week.

Adjust the Cheese

If you’re not a fan of feta, try a crumbled goat cheese or Parmesan instead for a different flavor.

FAQ Section

Q1: Can I use a different type of cheese?

A1: Absolutely! If you’re not a fan of feta, you can use goat cheese, Parmesan, or even mozzarella for a creamier alternative.

Q2: Can I make this salad in advance?

A2: Yes, you can prep the veggies and store them in the fridge. Just add the dressing and feta right before serving to keep everything fresh.

Q3: Can I use a different type of olives?

A3: Sure! While Kalamata olives are traditional, you can also use green olives, black olives, or any type you prefer.

Q4: Can I add protein to this salad?

A4: Yes! This salad pairs wonderfully with grilled chicken, shrimp, chickpeas, or grilled lamb for a more filling meal.

Q5: Is this salad gluten-free?

A5: Yes, this Greek Salad is naturally gluten-free and can be enjoyed by anyone on a gluten-free diet.

Q6: How can I make this salad spicier?

A6: Add some red pepper flakes or a drizzle of spicy olive oil to give it a nice kick!

Q7: Can I use a store-bought dressing?

A7: While homemade dressing is always best, you can use store-bought Greek dressing as a shortcut. Just make sure it’s made with good-quality olive oil for the best flavor.

Q8: Can I make this salad vegan?

A8: Yes! Simply skip the feta cheese or substitute it with vegan feta or another plant-based cheese alternative.

Q9: What should I serve this salad with?

A9: This salad goes great with grilled meats, hummus, or as part of a Mediterranean platter with pita bread and tzatziki.

Q10: How long will this salad last in the fridge?

A10: The salad is best eaten fresh, but if you need to store leftovers, keep the veggies and dressing separate. The veggies will stay fresh for 1-2 days in the fridge, while the dressing can last up to 1 week.

Conclusion

This Classic Greek Salad is a fresh, flavorful, and healthy dish that everyone will love. Whether it’s a light lunch, a hearty side, or a vibrant addition to any meal, it’s guaranteed to be a crowd-pleaser. Toss it together in minutes, and you’re ready to enjoy the fresh, tangy flavors of the Mediterranean in every bite.

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