Authentic Mediterranean Greek Salad

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Crisp cucumbers, juicy tomatoes, briny Kalamata olives, and creamy feta cheese come together in a burst of fresh Mediterranean flavor in this Authentic Greek Salad. It’s a simple, rustic dish that captures the spirit of the Aegean coast—light, nourishing, and bursting with herbs and tangy vinaigrette.

Perfect as a quick lunch, a flavorful side dish, or a refreshing starter, this salad is a celebration of high-quality ingredients brought together in perfect harmony. The crunch of vegetables, the saltiness of olives and feta, and the aromatic touch of oregano make every bite vibrant and satisfying.

Why You’ll Love This Authentic Mediterranean Greek Salad

• It requires no cooking and comes together in under 15 minutes.
• Packed with bold, fresh flavors that pop in every bite.
• Naturally vegetarian, gluten-free, and full of wholesome ingredients.
• Makes a perfect pairing for grilled meats, seafood, or crusty bread.

Preparation Phase & Tools to Use

Essential Tools and Equipment:

• Sharp Knife: For clean, precise slicing of cucumbers, onions, and tomatoes.
• Cutting Board: A stable surface to safely chop the vegetables.
• Large Mixing Bowl: To easily toss all the ingredients together.
• Salad Servers or Tongs: For gently mixing and serving without breaking the feta.
• Measuring Spoons: To ensure accurate seasoning and oil-to-vinegar ratios.

Each tool plays an important role in maintaining the integrity and texture of the ingredients. A sharp knife ensures clean cuts that don’t bruise the veggies, and a proper mixing bowl allows the dressing to coat everything evenly without crushing delicate components.

Preparation Tips

Use the freshest ingredients you can find—ripe cherry tomatoes, crisp cucumbers, and quality Kalamata olives make all the difference. Choose authentic Greek feta, preferably in brine, for the creamiest texture and best flavor. To keep the salad from getting soggy, add salt only when ready to serve, and toss everything gently to preserve the shape of the vegetables and feta cubes. For the dressing, whisk together the olive oil and vinegar separately before drizzling to ensure even distribution. A little dried oregano goes a long way, so don’t overdo it—let the ingredients shine through.

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Ingredients for this Authentic Mediterranean Greek Salad

• 1 large cucumber, sliced into half-moons
• 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved (use a mix of red and yellow if available)
• 1/2 red onion, thinly sliced
• 1 cup Kalamata olives, pitted
• 6 oz Greek feta cheese, cut into small cubes
• 2 tbsp extra virgin olive oil (high quality)
• 1 tbsp red wine vinegar
• 1 tsp dried oregano (preferably Greek oregano)
• Salt and freshly cracked black pepper to taste
• Optional: 1/2 green bell pepper, sliced
• Optional garnish: Fresh parsley or oregano leaves

Step 1: Prepare the Vegetables

Wash and dry all the vegetables thoroughly. Slice the cucumber into thick half-moons for crunch, halve the cherry tomatoes, and thinly slice the red onion. If using green bell pepper, slice it into thin strips.

Step 2: Assemble the Base

Place the chopped cucumbers, cherry tomatoes, red onion, and bell pepper (if using) into a large mixing bowl. Add the Kalamata olives for a briny bite.

Step 3: Add the Feta Cheese

Gently cube the feta cheese and scatter it across the salad. Avoid crumbling to keep the salad visually appealing and true to traditional presentation.

Step 4: Make the Dressing

In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, red wine vinegar, oregano, a pinch of salt, and black pepper. Taste and adjust acidity or seasoning if needed. This dressing will tie all the flavors together.

Step 5: Combine and Toss

Drizzle the dressing evenly over the salad. Using salad servers or clean hands, gently toss the ingredients until everything is lightly coated. Be careful not to break the feta.

Step 6: Garnish and Serve

Transfer the salad to a serving bowl or platter. Optionally, sprinkle with fresh chopped parsley or a few oregano leaves for color and aroma. Serve immediately with warm pita bread or alongside grilled meat or fish.

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Notes

This Greek salad is meant to be rustic and ingredient-driven, so don’t overthink the chopping—imperfect shapes add charm. Feta in brine is preferred for its richness and authenticity, while the olive oil should be fruity and robust. Make this salad right before serving to preserve freshness, but if prepping ahead, keep the dressing separate until the last minute. This dish is perfect for summer gatherings, meal prep, or pairing with grilled mains.

Watch Out for These Mistakes While Cooking

• Over-salting: Remember feta and olives already contribute salt, so taste before adding more.
• Using pre-crumbled feta: It tends to be dry and less flavorful. Always go for block feta in brine.
• Overmixing: Gentle tossing preserves the integrity of the ingredients and keeps the salad looking beautiful.
• Skipping the vinegar: Red wine vinegar is key to balancing the richness of olive oil and feta.
• Using low-quality olive oil: This salad relies on the olive oil as a flavor base—make it count.

Storage Instructions

If you have leftovers, store the Greek salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. To keep it fresh, avoid adding salt until serving time and store the dressing separately if possible. Note that the cucumbers may release water over time, so a quick drain or gentle stir before serving again is helpful.

Estimated Nutrition

Serving size: 1 cup (approx.)

• Calories: 220
• Protein: 6g
• Fat: 18g
• Saturated Fat: 6g
• Unsaturated Fat: 11g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Cholesterol: 25mg
• Carbohydrates: 9g
• Fiber: 2g
• Sugar: 4g
• Sodium: 520mg

Frequently Asked Questions

What type of feta is best for Greek salad?

Always choose block-style feta stored in brine. It’s creamier, tangier, and closer to what you’d find in Greece.

Can I make this salad ahead of time?

Yes, but keep the dressing and salt separate until you’re ready to serve to maintain crispness.

Is it okay to use black olives instead of Kalamata?

While you can substitute, Kalamata olives provide the most authentic flavor. Black olives are milder and less briny.

Can I add lettuce to this salad?

Traditional Greek salad doesn’t include lettuce. However, for a modern twist or added volume, feel free to add romaine.

How do I make it vegan?

Simply omit the feta or use a plant-based feta alternative. All other ingredients are naturally vegan.

What other veggies can I add?

Bell peppers are commonly added. You can also experiment with radishes, avocados, or even artichoke hearts.

Can I serve this as a main dish?

Yes! Add grilled chicken, chickpeas, or quinoa to make it a more substantial meal.

Is Greek salad healthy?

Absolutely. It’s rich in fiber, healthy fats, antioxidants, and is low in processed ingredients.

Conclusion

Authentic Mediterranean Greek Salad is a timeless classic that delivers bold flavors with minimal effort. It celebrates simplicity and lets the ingredients shine, making it a perfect choice for quick meals, potlucks, or summer gatherings. Whether you serve it solo or as a side, it’s guaranteed to refresh and satisfy.

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