🥗 Classic Greek Salad
A traditional Greek salad is the perfect balance of crisp vegetables, briny olives, creamy feta, and a drizzle of fruity olive oil. It’s light yet satisfying, with no lettuce—just bold, fresh flavors.
📝 Ingredients:
- 🥒 1 cucumber, sliced (half-moons or rounds)
- 🍅 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 🧅 ½ red onion, thinly sliced
- 🫒 ½ cup mixed olives (green and black, Kalamata preferred)
- 🧀 1 block of feta cheese (about 100–150g), ideally in brine
- 🌿 2 tbsp fresh parsley or oregano, chopped
- 🫒 2–3 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
- 🧂 Salt and freshly cracked black pepper, to taste
- 🌿 Optional: ½ tsp dried oregano or sumac for added flavor
👩🍳 Instructions:
- Prep the Veggies:
Slice the cucumber and halve the tomatoes. Thinly slice the red onion into rings or strips. - Assemble the Salad:
In a large bowl, layer the cucumber, tomatoes, and red onion. Scatter olives on top. - Add the Feta:
Place the block of feta cheese on top (don’t crumble—it’s traditionally served whole). - Dress It Up:
Drizzle generously with extra virgin olive oil. Sprinkle with salt, pepper, chopped parsley, and optional oregano or sumac. - Serve Fresh:
Serve immediately or chill briefly. Mix just before serving if desired.
🧾 Notes:
- Authentic Greek salads do not contain lettuce or any leafy greens.
- Use feta in brine for the best flavor and texture—it’s creamy and salty.
- Red wine vinegar or lemon juice can be added for a sharper dressing.
💡 Tips:
- Soak red onions in cold water for 5–10 mins to reduce sharpness.
- Add a few capers or sliced bell peppers for variation.
- Serve alongside warm pita, grilled meats, or as part of a mezze platter.
🍽️ Servings:
Serves 2–3 as a main dish or 4–5 as a side
🔢 Nutritional Info (Per Serving – Approx.):
- Calories: ~220 kcal
- Protein: ~6g
- Fat: ~18g (mostly healthy fats)
- Carbs: ~8g
- Fiber: ~3g
- Sodium: Moderate to high (due to feta and olives)
✅ Health Benefits:
- High in antioxidants from tomatoes, olive oil, and herbs
- Heart-healthy fats from olives and olive oil
- Low-carb and gluten-free
- Excellent source of calcium from feta cheese
- Helps with hydration and digestion due to high water content in cucumbers and tomatoes
❓ Q&A
Q: Can I make this ahead?
A: Yes, but add feta and dressing just before serving to keep it fresh.
Q: Is this salad keto-friendly?
A: Yes! It’s low in carbs and high in fat.
Q: Can I use crumbled feta?
A: You can, but a block of feta adds authenticity and a richer texture.
Q: Can I use regular olives?
A: Yes, but Kalamata and Greek green olives offer the best flavor.