Introduction
Greek salad is a refreshing, flavorful dish that’s perfect for any occasion, whether you’re looking for a light lunch, a vibrant side, or a healthy snack. This Greek Salad with Feta, Olives, and Homemade Vinaigrette combines crunchy cucumbers, juicy grape tomatoes, briny Kalamata olives, and tangy feta cheese. Tossed in a simple, zesty homemade vinaigrette, this salad is a delicious and healthy option that can be ready in just 10 minutes.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This Greek salad is full of bright, fresh flavors and textures. The crisp vegetables, salty olives, and creamy feta provide the perfect combination of ingredients. What truly elevates this dish is the homemade vinaigrette—it’s light, tangy, and infused with Mediterranean flavors like lemon, garlic, and oregano. Plus, this salad is incredibly easy to make, with minimal prep required. Whether you’re serving it alongside grilled meats, as part of a mezze platter, or on its own, it’s always a hit!
Ingredients
Salad Ingredients:
- 1 large cucumber, diced
- 1 pint grape tomatoes, halved
- 1 green bell pepper, diced
- 1/2 red onion, thinly sliced
- 1/2 cup Kalamata olives, halved
- 4 ounces feta cheese, crumbled
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Greek Salad Dressing:
- 1/4 cup lemon juice (from about 2 lemons)
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 cup olive oil
Directions
1. Prepare the Salad
In a large mixing bowl, combine the diced cucumber, halved grape tomatoes, diced green bell pepper, thinly sliced red onion, and halved Kalamata olives. Sprinkle the crumbled feta cheese over the top. This colorful medley of vegetables and feta is the heart of your Greek salad.
2. Make the Dressing
In a small bowl, whisk together the lemon juice, Dijon mustard, minced garlic, dried oregano, salt, and black pepper. As you whisk, slowly drizzle in the olive oil until the dressing becomes fully emulsified and smooth. This tangy, garlicky dressing is what gives the salad its signature flavor.
3. Dress the Salad
Pour the dressing over the salad ingredients in the bowl. Gently toss everything together to coat the vegetables and feta with the vinaigrette. Taste and adjust seasoning with more salt and pepper if necessary.
4. Serve
Serve the Greek salad immediately, or if time allows, refrigerate it for 15-30 minutes to let the flavors meld together. This salad is best enjoyed fresh but can be stored in the refrigerator for up to a day.
Kitchen Equipment Needed
- Large mixing bowl
- Small bowl for the vinaigrette
- Whisk
- Cutting board and knife
Tips for the Perfect Greek Salad
- Fresh Ingredients: Use the freshest vegetables you can find. The cucumbers should be crisp, the tomatoes juicy, and the onions slightly sweet.
- Feta Quality Matters: Opt for high-quality feta cheese made from sheep’s or goat’s milk for the most authentic and rich flavor.
- Whisk the Dressing Thoroughly: Make sure to whisk the dressing well so that the olive oil emulsifies and blends smoothly with the lemon juice and seasonings.
Recipe Swaps and Variations
- Cheese Alternatives: If you don’t have feta, you can swap it out for goat cheese or ricotta salata.
- Olives: Kalamata olives are the classic choice for Greek salad, but feel free to experiment with other varieties like green olives or even black olives for a milder flavor.
- Add Protein: For a more filling meal, add some grilled chicken, shrimp, or even chickpeas to the salad.
How to Store Leftovers
This Greek salad is best served fresh, but you can store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a day. The vegetables may lose some of their crispness, but the flavors will continue to meld and intensify. To keep the salad crisp, consider storing the dressing separately and tossing it in just before serving.
Food and Drink Pairings
This salad pairs perfectly with a variety of dishes, including grilled meats like chicken souvlaki, lamb chops, or grilled fish. For a refreshing beverage pairing, try serving the salad with a crisp white wine such as a Sauvignon Blanc or a Greek Assyrtiko. Non-alcoholic options like sparkling water with lemon or mint also complement the bright flavors of the salad.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: Can I make this salad ahead of time?
A: Yes! You can prep the vegetables and dressing separately up to a day in advance. Toss everything together just before serving to keep the salad fresh and crunchy.
Q: Can I use bottled dressing?
A: While homemade dressing adds the best flavor, you can use a store-bought Greek vinaigrette in a pinch. However, the simple ingredients in this homemade version make it easy and much tastier!
Q: Is this salad gluten-free?
A: Yes, this Greek salad is naturally gluten-free. Just make sure any add-ons or side dishes you serve it with are gluten-free as well.
Indulge in gourmet dining at home with our Filet Mignon with Shrimp and Lobster Cream Sauce recipe.
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Greek Salad with Feta, Olives, and Homemade Vinaigrette
- Total Time: 10 minutes
Description
Ingredients
Instructions
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 4 servings