How to Make a Classic Greek Salad

How to Make a Classic Greek Salad


The vibrant image of this classic Greek salad showcases its fresh and wholesome ingredients, making it an irresistible dish perfect for any meal. Here, we’ll guide you through the key ingredients and preparation method to recreate this healthy and flavorful salad at home.

Ingredients

To prepare a traditional Greek salad, you’ll need the following:

  • Fresh Vegetables:

    • 2 cups of cherry or grape tomatoes, halved
    • 1 large cucumber, diced into bite-sized pieces
    • 1 red onion, thinly sliced
  • Other Essentials:

    • 1 cup of Kalamata olives (pitted or whole based on preference)
    • 1 cup of crumbled feta cheese
    • A handful of fresh parsley, finely chopped
  • Dressing:

    • 3 tablespoons of extra-virgin olive oil
    • 1 tablespoon of red wine vinegar or lemon juice
    • 1 teaspoon of dried oregano
    • Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste

Preparation Steps

  1. Prep the Vegetables: Start by washing all the vegetables thoroughly. Cut the cherry tomatoes in half, dice the cucumber into small chunks, and thinly slice the red onion.

  2. Combine the Ingredients: In a large salad bowl, mix together the tomatoes, cucumber, and red onion. Add the Kalamata olives to the bowl for their briny and savory flavor.

  3. Add the Feta: Crumble the feta cheese over the salad. This creamy and tangy addition ties the flavors together beautifully.

  4. Prepare the Dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, red wine vinegar (or lemon juice), dried oregano, salt, and black pepper. Adjust the seasoning based on your taste.

  5. Toss the Salad: Drizzle the dressing over the salad and gently toss everything to ensure the vegetables and feta are well coated with the dressing.

  6. Garnish and Serve: Sprinkle the freshly chopped parsley over the top for a burst of color and fresh flavor. Serve immediately for the best taste and texture.

Tips for the Perfect Greek Salad

  • Use high-quality olive oil and fresh feta cheese to enhance the overall flavor.
  • If you prefer a more robust onion flavor, soak the sliced onions in cold water for 10 minutes to reduce their sharpness.
  • Serve the salad alongside warm pita bread or grilled meats for a complete Mediterranean-inspired meal.