Why Make This Recipe
Easy Greek Salad is a fresh, colorful, and healthy option for any meal. It brings together classic Mediterranean flavors and makes use of simple ingredients that are often found in many kitchens. This salad is not only quick to prepare but also packed with nutrients, making it a perfect side dish or a light meal on its own. Plus, it’s a great way to use up ripe vegetables from the garden or the market.
How to Make Easy Greek Salad
Ingredients
- 2 cups Ripe Tomatoes, diced (Use in-season tomatoes for the best flavor.)
- 1 large Cucumber, peeled and chopped (Provides a refreshing crunch.)
- 1 small Red Onion, thinly sliced (Use sparingly to avoid overpowering the salad.)
- 1 large Bell Pepper, diced (Yellow or orange adds sweetness and color.)
- 1 cup Feta Cheese, crumbled (Key ingredient in Greek cuisine.)
- 1/4 cup Olive Oil (High-quality extra-virgin for best flavor.)
- 2 tablespoons Lemon Juice (Freshly squeezed for brightness.)
- 1 teaspoon Dried Oregano (Brings an aromatic flavor typical of Greek cuisine.)
- to taste Salt (Season to taste.)
- to taste Black Pepper (Season to taste.)
- 1 handful Black Olives, pitted (Kalamata olives add a briny richness.)
Directions
- Wash all vegetables under cool running water.
- Dice the tomatoes into bite-sized pieces.
- Peel and slice the cucumber into thin half-moons.
- Thinly slice the red onion. Soak in cold water if too strong.
- Dice the bell pepper into small pieces.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine tomatoes, cucumbers, red onion, and bell peppers. Toss gently.
- Add crumbled feta cheese and Kalamata olives to the bowl.
- In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, and oregano.
- Drizzle the dressing over the salad and toss gently.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Let the salad sit for 10-15 minutes before serving.
- Serve in individual bowls or on a platter, garnished with extra olives or feta if desired.
How to Serve Easy Greek Salad
Easy Greek Salad can be served as a side dish with grilled meats, fish, or as part of a Mediterranean-themed meal. It is also delicious on its own as a light lunch or snack. Consider serving it with warm pita bread or as a filling for wraps.
How to Store Easy Greek Salad
If you have leftovers, store the salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It is best consumed within 2-3 days. If possible, keep the dressing separate until you’re ready to serve to maintain the freshness of the vegetables.
Tips to Make Easy Greek Salad
- For the best flavor, use ripe, in-season vegetables.
- To lessen the strong flavor of red onion, soak it in cold water for a few minutes before adding it to the salad.
- Feel free to adjust the amount of feta cheese and olives based on your taste preference.
Variation
You can add other ingredients like avocado, chickpeas, or even cooked quinoa for a more filling salad. For a different flavor profile, try adding fresh herbs like parsley or mint.
FAQs
1. Can I make the salad ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the ingredients in advance, but it’s best to mix everything together just before serving to keep the vegetables fresh and crunchy.
2. What can I substitute for feta cheese?
If you don’t have feta, you can try goat cheese or even a non-dairy cheese for a vegan option.
3. Can I add protein to the salad?
Absolutely! Grilled chicken, shrimp, or chickpeas can turn this salad into a complete meal.
Easy Greek Salad
- Total Time: 15 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
A fresh, colorful, and healthy salad that combines classic Mediterranean flavors with ripe vegetables and feta cheese.
Ingredients
- 2 cups Ripe Tomatoes, diced
- 1 large Cucumber, peeled and chopped
- 1 small Red Onion, thinly sliced
- 1 large Bell Pepper, diced
- 1 cup Feta Cheese, crumbled
- 1/4 cup Olive Oil
- 2 tablespoons Lemon Juice
- 1 teaspoon Dried Oregano
- to taste Salt
- to taste Black Pepper
- 1 handful Black Olives, pitted
Instructions
- Wash all vegetables under cool running water.
- Dice the tomatoes into bite-sized pieces.
- Peel and slice the cucumber into thin half-moons.
- Thinly slice the red onion. Soak in cold water if too strong.
- Dice the bell pepper into small pieces.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine tomatoes, cucumbers, red onion, and bell peppers. Toss gently.
- Add crumbled feta cheese and Kalamata olives to the bowl.
- In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, and oregano.
- Drizzle the dressing over the salad and toss gently.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Let the salad sit for 10-15 minutes before serving.
- Serve in individual bowls or on a platter, garnished with extra olives or feta if desired.
Notes
For best flavor, use ripe, in-season vegetables. Keep dressing separate until ready to serve for maximum freshness.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: No Cooking Required
- Cuisine: Mediterranean