Classic Greek Salad Recipe

Greek Salad, known as “Horiatiki” in Greece, is a fresh and simple dish that captures the flavors of the Mediterranean. This salad brings together crisp cucumbers, juicy tomatoes, tangy feta cheese, and savory Kalamata olives, all dressed with a drizzle of olive oil and a sprinkle of oregano. The ingredients come together beautifully to create a vibrant, satisfying dish that is perfect for any occasion. This guide will walk you through the steps to make an authentic Greek Salad, ideal as a light meal or a side dish.

Ingredients

• Cucumbers: 1 large cucumber, sliced
• Tomatoes: 4 ripe tomatoes, cut into wedges
• Red onion: ½ large red onion, thinly sliced
• Green bell pepper: 1 medium, sliced into rings
• Kalamata olives: ½ cup, pitted
• Feta cheese: 200 grams (approximately 7 oz), cut into large chunks
• Extra virgin olive oil: 4 tablespoons
• Dried oregano: 1 teaspoon
• Salt: to taste

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Vegetables

1. Wash and dry the cucumber, tomatoes, and bell pepper.
2. Slice the cucumber into rounds, cut the tomatoes into wedges, and slice the red onion into thin rings.
3. Cut the green bell pepper into rings, removing the seeds.

Step 2: Assemble the Salad

1. In a large salad bowl, combine the cucumber slices, tomato wedges, red onion rings, and green bell pepper rings.
2. Add the Kalamata olives and arrange the feta cheese chunks on top.

Step 3: Dress the Salad

1. Drizzle the olive oil evenly over the salad.
2. Sprinkle the dried oregano on top, and season with a pinch of salt.
3. Toss gently, if desired, or serve with the ingredients layered, as is traditional in Greece.

Serving Suggestions

Greek Salad can be served as a light meal on its own or as a side dish. For a more filling meal, pair it with grilled meats, fresh pita bread, or a side of tzatziki. The simplicity and vibrant flavors make it an excellent choice for picnics, barbecues, and casual gatherings.

Tips for an Authentic Greek Salad

Choosing the Best Ingredients

• Tomatoes: Ripe, flavorful tomatoes are key to an authentic Greek Salad. Vine-ripened tomatoes are preferred for their sweetness and robust flavor.
• Cucumbers: Choose firm cucumbers for maximum crunch. English cucumbers work well because they have fewer seeds, but regular cucumbers are also great.
• Feta Cheese: Opt for Greek feta made from sheep’s milk for a creamy texture and slightly tangy flavor. Avoid pre-crumbled feta as it lacks the authentic texture of block feta.

Variations on the Greek Salad

1. Herb Addition: Fresh herbs like basil, mint, or parsley add a refreshing note to the salad. Chop and sprinkle them on top just before serving.
2. Lemon Zest: For an extra burst of citrus flavor, add a sprinkle of lemon zest over the salad.
3. Capers: In some regions of Greece, capers are added to Greek Salad for a tangy flavor. A few capers can enhance the overall taste without overpowering the other ingredients.

Preparing in Advance

While Greek Salad is best served fresh, you can prepare the components ahead of time:

• Vegetables: Slice and store the cucumber, tomatoes, and bell peppers in separate airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to a day.
• Dressing: Greek Salad traditionally relies on simple olive oil as the dressing, so no advance preparation is needed. However, you can mix the olive oil with oregano beforehand for a more infused flavor.

Enhancing the Flavor of Your Greek Salad

For an extra touch of authenticity, here are a few ways to deepen the flavors:

• Marinate the Feta: Toss the feta cheese in a little olive oil and sprinkle with oregano, then let it sit for 10-15 minutes. This allows the feta to absorb the flavors and adds more depth to each bite.
• Use Greek Olive Oil: High-quality extra virgin olive oil from Greece has a distinctive flavor profile, enhancing the salad’s Mediterranean essence.

How to Serve Greek Salad

For a traditional presentation, serve Greek Salad in a large, shallow bowl. The salad is typically not tossed; instead, it’s served layered so each ingredient shines on its own. This allows diners to scoop up their preferred combination of ingredients.

Pairing Greek Salad with Other Dishes

• Pita Bread: Fresh, warm pita is perfect for scooping up the salad and soaking up the olive oil dressing.
• Hummus: Serve with a side of hummus for a complete Mediterranean experience.
• Grilled Vegetables: Roasted or grilled vegetables such as zucchini and eggplant make an excellent side dish alongside Greek Salad.

Adding a Crunchy Twist

For extra texture, add a handful of lightly toasted sunflower seeds or pumpkin seeds. This simple addition enhances the salad’s crunch and adds a unique nutty flavor that complements the fresh vegetables and creamy feta perfectly.

Final Thoughts

Greek Salad is a wonderfully simple, yet flavorful dish that showcases the best of Mediterranean cuisine. It’s a celebration of fresh ingredients, perfect for enjoying year-round. Whether you’re serving it as a side or making it the centerpiece of your meal, this Classic Greek Salad is sure to bring vibrant flavors to your table. Embrace the tradition of Greek cooking and experiment with different variations to make it your own! Enjoy the process and delight in each bite of this timeless dish.