Classic Greek Salad with Feta and Herb Dressing

 

Introduction

Greek salad is a vibrant and refreshing dish that brings the flavors of the Mediterranean straight to your table. Combining crisp cucumbers, juicy tomatoes, tangy red onions, and creamy feta cheese, this salad is topped with a fragrant herb dressing for a delightful crunch in every bite.

Ingredients:

• For the Salad:

  • 2 cups cherry or grape tomatoes, halved
  • 1 cucumber, diced (about 1-2 cups)
  • 1/2 red onion, thinly sliced
  • 1 yellow bell pepper, diced
  • 1/2 cup Kalamata olives (optional)
  • 1 cup feta cheese, cubed or crumbled

• For the Dressing:

  • 1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil
  • 2 tablespoons red wine vinegar (or lemon juice for a zesty twist)
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano
  • 1 clove garlic, minced
  • Salt and black pepper, to taste

• Garnish:

  • Fresh parsley or oregano leaves (optional)

Preparation Instructions:

1. Prepare the Vegetables:

   • Wash and dry all the vegetables thoroughly.
   • Halve the cherry or grape tomatoes, dice the cucumber, thinly slice the red onion, and dice the yellow bell pepper.
   • Add all vegetables to a large mixing bowl. Add the Kalamata olives if using.

2. Add the Feta Cheese:

   • Gently fold in the cubed or crumbled feta cheese, being careful not to break it up too much.

3. Make the Dressing:

   • In a small bowl, whisk together extra virgin olive oil, red wine vinegar, dried oregano, minced garlic, salt, and black pepper until well combined.
   • Taste and adjust the seasoning if necessary.

4. Assemble the Salad:

   • Pour the dressing over the vegetables and feta cheese in the mixing bowl.
   • Toss gently to coat all the ingredients with the dressing evenly.

5. Serve:

   • Transfer the Greek salad to a serving bowl.
   • Garnish with fresh parsley or oregano leaves for an added touch of flavor and color.

Tips for a Perfect Greek Salad:

• Chill Before Serving: For best results, let the salad sit in the refrigerator for 15-30 minutes before serving. This allows the flavors to meld together beautifully.
• Variations: Add diced avocado for extra creaminess or a squeeze of lemon juice for added zest.
• Customize: Adjust the amount of feta or olives based on your preference. You can even add sliced pepperoncini for a slight kick.

Conclusion:

This classic Greek salad with feta and herb dressing is a refreshing and flavorful side or light main dish. With a perfect balance of crisp vegetables, creamy cheese, and a tangy dressing, it's sure to be a crowd-pleaser at any gathering.

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