Classic Greek Salad

Name: Classic Greek Salad
Prep time: 10 min
Total time: 10 min
Cuisine: Greek
Ingredients: 2 cups cucumber, sliced; 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved; 1/2 red onion, thinly 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 and pepper, to taste; 2 tbsp olive oil; 1 tbsp red wine vinegar

Isabella

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A refreshing and vibrant dish bursting with Mediterranean flavors, this classic Greek salad is a delightful mix of fresh vegetables, creamy feta, and a simple olive oil dressing. It’s perfect for a light lunch, an easy side dish, or as part of a larger Mediterranean spread.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Quick and Easy: Ready in just 10 minutes with no cooking required.

Healthy and Nutritious: Packed with fresh vegetables, healthy fats from olive oil, and protein-rich feta.

Versatile: Perfect as a side dish, a light main course, or even as a topping for grilled proteins.

Authentic Mediterranean Flavor: The combination of tangy feta, briny olives, and fresh vegetables is classic and satisfying.

Customizable: Easily adapt the ingredients to suit your preferences or dietary needs.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

2 cups cucumber, sliced

1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved

1/2 red onion, thinly 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 and pepper, to taste

2 tbsp olive oil

1 tbsp red wine vinegar

Directions

Prepare the vegetables: I like to start by slicing the cucumbers and red onion thinly. Then, I halve the cherry tomatoes and cube the feta cheese into bite-sized pieces.

Combine the ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, I add the sliced cucumbers, cherry tomatoes, red onion, Kalamata olives, green olives, and feta cheese.

Season and dress the salad: Next, I sprinkle the mixture with dried oregano, fresh parsley, salt, and pepper. I then drizzle olive oil and red wine vinegar over the salad and toss it gently to combine everything.

Serve and enjoy: I serve the salad immediately, either as a side dish or a light main course. Pairing it with warm pita bread makes the meal feel even more authentic.

Servings and Timing

Servings: 4

Prep Time: 10 minutes

Cooking Time: None

Total Time: 10 minutes

Variations

Protein Boost: Add grilled chicken, shrimp, or chickpeas for a heartier meal.

Herb Swap: Use fresh dill or mint instead of parsley for a different flavor.

No Feta?: Replace feta with goat cheese or omit it for a dairy-free version.

Different Olives: Try using black olives or skip them entirely if preferred.

Add Crunch: Toss in some sliced bell peppers or radishes for added texture.

Storage/Reheating

Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.

Reheating: This salad is best enjoyed cold and doesn’t require reheating. If stored, drain any excess liquid before serving.

Related Recipes:

Zucchini Egg Muffins

FAQs

Can I make this salad ahead of time?

Yes, but I recommend adding the feta cheese and dressing just before serving to keep it fresh and prevent the vegetables from becoming soggy.

What can I serve with this Greek salad?

This salad pairs well with grilled meats, seafood, pita bread, or even a simple bowl of soup for a complete meal.

Can I use bottled dressing instead of making my own?

Absolutely. While I prefer the simplicity of olive oil and red wine vinegar, a store-bought Greek dressing works well too.

How do I prevent the onions from overpowering the salad?

Soaking the sliced red onions in cold water for 10 minutes before adding them to the salad can help mellow their flavor.

Can I make this salad vegan?

Yes, simply omit the feta cheese or use a plant-based feta alternative.

Conclusion

This classic Greek salad is a simple yet flavorful dish that brings the vibrant tastes of the Mediterranean to your table. Whether served as a side dish or a light main, it’s quick to prepare, healthy, and endlessly versatile. Give it a try, and it might just become a staple in your kitchen.