A Classic Greek Salad is a refreshing, vibrant dish that perfectly captures the essence of Mediterranean cuisine. Packed with fresh vegetables, creamy feta cheese, and a tangy dressing, this salad is a staple in Greek households and is loved worldwide. It is incredibly easy to prepare and requires no cooking, making it a perfect dish for a quick meal or a delightful side to complement any Mediterranean feast. The balance of flavors, from the juicy tomatoes to the briny olives and the crisp cucumbers, creates a harmony that is both healthy and satisfying. Whether you’re looking for a light lunch, a flavorful appetizer, or a healthy side dish, this Greek salad recipe will not disappoint.
Ingredients:
- 4 large ripe tomatoes, cut into wedges
- 1 English cucumber, sliced into half-moons
- 1 small red onion, thinly sliced
- 1 green bell pepper, sliced into thin strips
- ½ cup Kalamata olives, pitted
- 200g (7oz) feta cheese, cut into cubes or crumbled
- ¼ cup extra virgin olive oil
- 1 tbsp red wine vinegar
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- Salt and black pepper to taste
Instructions:
- Prepare the Vegetables: Wash and cut the tomatoes into wedges, slice the cucumber into half-moons, thinly slice the red onion, and cut the green bell pepper into strips. Place all the chopped vegetables in a large mixing bowl.
- Add the Olives and Feta: Toss in the Kalamata olives and add the feta cheese, either in large cubes for a traditional touch or crumbled for better distribution of flavor.
- Make the Dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together the extra virgin olive oil, red wine vinegar, dried oregano, salt, and black pepper until well combined.
- Combine and Toss: Pour the dressing over the salad and gently toss everything together, ensuring the vegetables are evenly coated with the dressing.
- Serve and Enjoy: Transfer the salad to a serving dish and enjoy it fresh. For the best flavor, let it sit for 10-15 minutes before serving, allowing the ingredients to absorb the dressing.