Greek Salad Recipe: A Refreshing Mediterranean Delight
If you’re craving a light and flavorful dish that captures the essence of Mediterranean cuisine, this Greek salad is a perfect choice. Packed with fresh vegetables, creamy feta cheese, and briny olives, this salad is both refreshing and satisfying. Whether you’re serving it as a side or enjoying it as a standalone dish, it’s sure to delight your taste buds. Let’s dive into how to make this classic Greek salad, step by step.
Ingredients for Greek Salad (Serves 2)
| Ingredient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Feta cheese | 200g |
| Iceberg lettuce | 150g |
| Greek black olives | 8 |
| Red onion | 1 |
| Cucumbers | 2 |
| Ripe tomatoes | 2 |
| Dried oregano | To taste |
| Extra virgin olive oil | 4 tbsp |
Nutritional Information (Per Serving)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 250 kcal |
| Protein | 8g |
| Fat (Total) | 22g |
| Saturated Fat | 5g |
| Carbohydrates | 10g |
| Fiber | 3g |
| Sugars | 5g |
| Sodium | 800mg |
Instructions for Preparing Greek Salad
-
Prepare the Lettuce
Begin by washing the iceberg lettuce thoroughly to remove any dirt or impurities. Once clean, dry the leaves using a kitchen towel or salad spinner. Cut the lettuce into bite-sized pieces and place them in a large salad bowl. -
-
Prepare the Cucumbers
Take the cucumbers and wash them well under cold water. Using a vegetable peeler, peel off the skin if preferred (though leaving the skin on will add a bit of texture and nutrients). Slice the cucumbers into thin rounds, approximately half a centimeter thick. Add the cucumber slices to the bowl with the lettuce. -
Slice the Red Onion
Peel and rinse the red onion, then cut it into thin slices. You can adjust the thickness according to your preference—some people enjoy the crunch of thicker onion slices, while others prefer them thinner for a milder flavor. Add the sliced onion to the salad bowl. -
Prepare the Tomatoes
Wash the tomatoes thoroughly, remove the stems, and cut them into quarters. If you prefer a smaller bite, you can chop them into smaller pieces. Add the tomato quarters to the salad bowl along with the lettuce, cucumbers, and onions. -
Add the Olives
For the authentic Greek flavor, add about 8 black Greek olives to the salad. These olives bring a deliciously salty and briny taste that complements the fresh vegetables. -
Cube the Feta
Cut the feta cheese into bite-sized cubes. The feta adds a creamy, tangy element to the salad, making it the star ingredient. Place the cubed feta on top of the salad. -
Season the Salad
Sprinkle the salad with dried oregano, a key herb that enhances the flavor of the Greek salad. Use as much as you like, but a light sprinkle is usually enough to capture the essence of the dish. -
Dress the Salad
Drizzle 4 tablespoons of extra virgin olive oil over the salad. The quality of the olive oil plays a significant role in the final taste, so opt for a good, flavorful olive oil. If you enjoy a slightly tangy flavor, you can add a splash of vinegar or lemon juice to the mix. -
Toss and Serve
Gently toss the ingredients together to combine them, ensuring that the olive oil and seasoning coat the vegetables evenly. Serve immediately for the freshest flavor or chill for a few minutes before serving.
Tips for the Perfect Greek Salad
- Customize Your Salad: Feel free to add other ingredients like capers, bell peppers, or even a few anchovies for extra Mediterranean flair.
- Make Ahead: If you’re preparing this salad ahead of time, keep the dressing separate and add it just before serving to prevent the vegetables from becoming soggy.
- Quality Matters: Choose ripe, fresh tomatoes and high-quality feta cheese for the best results. The better the ingredients, the more flavorful your salad will be.
Enjoy Your Greek Salad
Now that your Greek salad is ready, you’re all set to enjoy a delicious and healthy meal. This dish is perfect for a light lunch, a refreshing side dish for grilled meats, or a vibrant appetizer for a Mediterranean-themed dinner. The combination of fresh ingredients, tangy feta, and zesty olive oil will transport your taste buds straight to Greece. Enjoy!
