Experience the essence of Mediterranean cuisine with this refreshing Greek salad recipe. Bursting with vibrant flavors, this dish combines juicy tomatoes, crisp cucumbers, and creamy feta cheese, all drizzled with olive oil and a sprinkle of oregano. Perfect as a side dish or a light meal, this salad is not only delicious but also packed with nutrients. Whether enjoyed on its own or paired with grilled meats, this Greek salad will transport your taste buds straight to Greece.
Ingredients
– 2 large ripe tomatoes, diced
– 1 cucumber, sliced
– 1 red onion, thinly sliced
– 1 cup Kalamata olives
– 200g feta cheese, crumbled
– 3 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 tablespoon red wine vinegar
– 1 teaspoon dried oregano
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley for garnish
Servings and Cooking Time
This Greek salad recipe serves 4 people. Preparation time is approximately 15 minutes, and there is no cooking time required.
Nutritional Value
Each serving (1/4 of the salad) contains approximately:
– Calories: 250
– Protein: 6g
– Carbohydrates: 10g
– Fat: 22g
– Fiber: 3g
This nutritional value is based on one serving for one person.
Step-by-Step Cooking Process
1. Gather all the ingredients and wash the vegetables thoroughly.
2. Dice the tomatoes into bite-sized pieces.
3. Slice the cucumber into thin rounds.
4. Thinly slice the red onion.
5. In a large bowl, combine the diced tomatoes, cucumber slices, and red onion.
6. Add the Kalamata olives to the bowl.
7. Crumble the feta cheese on top of the vegetable mixture.
8. In a separate small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, red wine vinegar, oregano, salt, and pepper.
9. Pour the dressing over the salad and gently toss to combine.
10. Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.
Alternative Ingredients
Feel free to substitute the feta cheese with goat cheese for a tangier flavor. You can also use cherry tomatoes instead of regular tomatoes for a sweeter bite. If you’re looking for a lower-carb option, consider replacing the olives with artichoke hearts.
Serving and Pairings
This Greek salad pairs beautifully with grilled chicken, lamb, or fish. It also complements pita bread and hummus for a complete Mediterranean meal. Enjoy it as a side dish at barbecues or picnics.
Storage and Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. This salad is best enjoyed fresh, but if you need to reheat it, do so gently in a pan, avoiding the feta. Freezing is not recommended, as the vegetables will lose their texture.
Cooking Mistakes
- Using overripe tomatoes can make the salad mushy.
- Not letting the salad sit for a few minutes after dressing can prevent flavors from melding.
- Using too much dressing can overpower the fresh ingredients.
- Forgetting to season with salt and pepper can lead to blandness.
- Not chopping ingredients uniformly can affect presentation.
Helpful Tips
- Use fresh, high-quality olive oil for the best flavor.
- Experiment with different herbs like basil or mint for variety.
- Chill your salad bowl in the fridge before assembling for a refreshing touch.
- Make it vegan by omitting the feta and adding avocado for creaminess.
FAQs
What vegetables are essential for a Greek salad?
The essential vegetables for a Greek salad are tomatoes, cucumbers, and red onions. These provide a fresh and crunchy base for the dish. You can also include bell peppers for added color and flavor.
Can I make Greek salad ahead of time?
While you can prep the ingredients in advance, it’s best to dress the salad just before serving to keep the vegetables crisp. If you plan to make it ahead, store the dressing separately.
Is Greek salad healthy?
Yes, Greek salad is a healthy option! It’s low in calories, high in fiber, and packed with vitamins. The olive oil and feta provide healthy fats, making it a nutritious choice.
What can I add to Greek salad for extra protein?
To boost the protein content, consider adding grilled chicken, chickpeas, or even tuna. These additions will complement the flavors while enhancing the dish’s nutritional value.
Can I use different types of olives?
Absolutely! While Kalamata olives are traditional, you can use green olives or any variety you prefer. Just keep in mind that different olives will impart different flavors to the salad.
Conclusion
This Greek salad recipe is a delightful addition to any meal, bringing a burst of Mediterranean flavors to your table. With its fresh ingredients and simple preparation, it’s a dish that everyone will love. Enjoy the vibrant taste and health benefits of this classic recipe today!
Greek Salad Recipe
Ingredients
- 2 large ripe tomatoes diced
- 1 cucumber sliced
- 1 red onion thinly sliced
- 1 cup Kalamata olives
- 200 g feta cheese crumbled
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon red wine vinegar
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley for garnish
Instructions
- Gather all the ingredients and wash the vegetables thoroughly.
- Dice the tomatoes into bite-sized pieces.
- Slice the cucumber into thin rounds.
- Thinly slice the red onion.
- In a large bowl, combine the diced tomatoes, cucumber slices, and red onion.
- Add the Kalamata olives to the bowl.
- Crumble the feta cheese on top of the vegetable mixture.
- In a separate small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, red wine vinegar, oregano, salt, and pepper.
- Pour the dressing over the salad and gently toss to combine.
- Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.
