If you love fresh, vibrant flavors that instantly transport you to sun-drenched Mediterranean coasts, this Classic Greek Salad Recipe is an absolute must-try. Bursting with crisp cucumbers, juicy cherry tomatoes, briny olives, and rich, creamy feta, it is a perfect harmony of textures and tastes. The simple yet classic dressing of olive oil and red wine vinegar ties everything together in a bright, tangy finish, making this salad a refreshing staple that brightens any meal.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering the right ingredients for this salad is key, and you’ll find that simplicity reigns supreme. Each component plays a vital role, offering freshness, color, and that iconic Greek flavor profile that makes this salad a perennial favorite.
- 2 cups cucumber, sliced: Provides crisp, refreshing crunch that balances the richer ingredients.
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved: Adds natural sweetness and vibrant color to the dish.
- 1/2 red onion, thinly sliced: Injects a sharp yet slightly sweet bite that enhances the overall flavor.
- 1/4 cup Kalamata olives: Brings a deep, salty depth typical to Greek cuisine.
- 1/4 cup green olives: Adds a complementary briny flavor with a touch of fruity brightness.
- 1/2 cup feta cheese, cubed: This creamy, tangy cheese is the star ingredient that gives the salad its unmistakable character.
- 1 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped: Offers herby freshness and a subtle color contrast.
- 1/4 tsp dried oregano: A classic Mediterranean herb that enhances earthiness and aroma.
- Salt and pepper, to taste: Essential to seasoning and balancing the vibrant ingredients.
- 2 tbsp olive oil: Adds silkiness and richness, carrying the flavors beautifully.
- 1 tbsp red wine vinegar: Delivers just the right amount of tang to brighten the salad.
How to Make Classic Greek Salad Recipe
Step 1: Prepare Your Fresh Ingredients
Start by slicing the cucumbers and red onion thinly to create delicate layers that mix well with the other elements. Halve the cherry tomatoes to release their juicy sweetness and cube the feta cheese into chunks that are big enough to savor in every bite but small enough to blend in perfectly.
Step 2: Combine the Vegetables and Cheese
Next, place all your fresh ingredients into a large mixing bowl—cucumbers, cherry tomatoes, red onion, Kalamata olives, green olives, and feta cheese go in together. This is where the colors and textures begin their magical interplay, making the salad visually inviting and flavorful.
Step 3: Season and Dress the Salad
Sprinkle the salad with dried oregano, freshly chopped parsley, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Then drizzle with olive oil and red wine vinegar. Toss everything gently but thoroughly so each piece is evenly coated in that zesty, fragrant dressing that ties the dish together.
Step 4: Serve It Fresh and Enjoy
The classic Greek salad recipe is best enjoyed right away to appreciate its crispness and vibrant flavors. Serve it as a refreshing side dish or a light main course, and don’t forget some warm pita bread on the side for an authentic touch!
How to Serve Classic Greek Salad Recipe
Garnishes
For an extra pop of flavor and elegance, sprinkle some freshly chopped mint or dill on top. A few whole olives or an additional crumble of feta can also add a nice visual appeal and depth to the salad’s overall presentation.
Side Dishes
This salad pairs wonderfully with grilled meats like lamb or chicken, or alongside seafood dishes. It’s also fantastic when served with warm pita bread or stuffed inside pita pockets for a refreshing, Mediterranean-inspired lunch.
Creative Ways to Present
Try layering the salad in a clear glass bowl to show off the colorful ingredients or serve it individually in small bowls garnished with a lemon wedge for an elegant party appetizer. You can even serve the feta cheese on a skewer with a cherry tomato and olive for a playful bite-sized snack inspired by the salad’s flavors.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have leftovers, keep the salad in an airtight container in the fridge for up to two days. The cucumbers and tomatoes might lose some crispness over time, so it’s best enjoyed fresh, but it still holds up well as a quick, healthy snack.
Freezing
Because of the fresh vegetables and cheese, this salad is not suitable for freezing. The texture and flavors will not survive the freeze-thaw process, so enjoy it fresh whenever possible.
Reheating
Since this is a fresh salad, reheating is not necessary or recommended. Instead, just give leftovers a quick toss before serving chilled or at room temperature for the best flavor experience.
FAQs
What makes this salad a Classic Greek Salad Recipe?
The combination of cucumbers, tomatoes, olives, red onion, and feta with a simple dressing of olive oil and red wine vinegar is what defines a Classic Greek Salad Recipe. The balance of tangy, salty, and fresh flavors is what makes it timeless.
Can I use other types of cheese instead of feta?
Feta cheese is essential for the authentic taste and texture of this salad. While you can substitute with fresh mozzarella or ricotta salata, you won’t get the same tangy and crumbly experience that makes this salad so special.
Is this salad suitable for vegans?
This salad contains feta cheese, which is a dairy product, so it’s not vegan. However, you can omit the feta or use a plant-based cheese alternative to keep the same vibrant flavors without animal products.
How can I make the salad more filling?
To turn this salad into a heartier meal, add some grilled chicken, chickpeas, or quinoa. These additions complement the Classic Greek Salad Recipe nicely without overpowering its fresh flavors.
What is the best olive oil to use for the dressing?
Using a high-quality extra virgin olive oil will enhance the flavor and aroma of the salad. Look for cold-pressed and well-reviewed olive oils to get the most authentic taste.
Final Thoughts
There is just something so delightful about the Classic Greek Salad Recipe that makes it a go-to for any season. Fresh, vibrant, and packed with flavor, it’s a dish that feels like a celebration of simple, honest ingredients. I can’t wait for you to try it and see how easily it becomes a beloved favorite in your own kitchen.
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Classic Greek Salad Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Total Time: 10 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Salad
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: Greek
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
This Classic Greek Salad is a fresh and vibrant Mediterranean dish featuring crisp cucumbers, juicy cherry tomatoes, tangy olives, and creamy feta cheese. Tossed with fragrant oregano, parsley, olive oil, and red wine vinegar, it makes a perfect light meal or side dish that’s easy to prepare in just 10 minutes.
Ingredients
Vegetables
- 2 cups cucumber, sliced
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1/2 red onion, thinly sliced
Olives & Cheese
- 1/4 cup Kalamata olives
- 1/4 cup green olives
- 1/2 cup feta cheese, cubed
Herbs & Seasonings
- 1 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
- 1/4 tsp dried oregano
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Dressing
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tbsp red wine vinegar
Instructions
- Prepare the vegetables: Slice the cucumbers and red onion thinly, halve the cherry tomatoes, and cube the feta cheese into bite-sized pieces to ensure even distribution in the salad.
- Combine salad ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, add the sliced cucumbers, cherry tomatoes, red onion, Kalamata olives, green olives, and cubed feta cheese, creating the flavorful base of the salad.
- Season and dress the salad: Sprinkle the salad mixture with dried oregano, chopped fresh parsley, salt, and pepper to enhance the taste. Then drizzle olive oil and red wine vinegar over the ingredients. Toss gently to evenly combine all flavors without breaking the feta cubes.
- Serve: Serve the salad immediately as a refreshing side dish or a light main course. Optionally, pair it with warm pita bread to complete the authentic Mediterranean experience.
Notes
- The salad is best served fresh to enjoy the crisp texture of the vegetables and the creamy feta.
- You can substitute red wine vinegar with lemon juice for a citrusy twist.
- For a vegan version, omit the feta or use a plant-based cheese alternative.
- Adding a handful of fresh mint leaves can provide an extra layer of flavor.
- If preparing in advance, keep the dressing separate and toss just before serving to prevent sogginess.
