Introduction
The Greek Salad (Horiatiki Salad) is a refreshing, colorful, and healthy dish that captures the essence of Mediterranean cuisine. Originating from Greece, it is known for its simple yet vibrant ingredients — crisp cucumbers, juicy tomatoes, sweet red onions, tangy feta cheese, briny Kalamata olives, and a drizzle of olive oil with a touch of oregano. Unlike many other salads, this one doesn’t rely on heavy dressings; instead, the natural flavors of the vegetables shine, enhanced only by high-quality olive oil, lemon juice, and herbs.
This salad is the ultimate example of how simple ingredients can come together to create something extraordinary. It’s light yet satisfying, full of texture and flavor, and perfect for warm-weather dining, though equally enjoyable year-round.
Why I Love This Recipe
I love this recipe because it is fresh, flavorful, and nourishing without being complicated. The combination of crisp cucumbers, juicy tomatoes, salty feta, and briny Kalamata olives creates a balance of flavors that is both refreshing and satisfying. Every bite feels bright and uplifting, making it a dish that never gets old.
Another reason I adore it is its versatility. It works beautifully as a side dish to grilled meats, seafood, or vegetarian mains, but it’s also filling enough to serve as a light meal on its own with some crusty bread. It’s also quick to prepare, which makes it a reliable go-to recipe for busy days or when you want to impress guests with minimal effort.
Why It’s a Must-Try Dish
This salad is a must-try because:
- It’s a classic Mediterranean dish celebrated worldwide for its flavor and health benefits.
- It requires no cooking, making it quick and easy.
- It’s nutrient-rich, packed with vitamins, minerals, and healthy fats.
- The combination of feta and olives gives it a distinct Greek character that’s hard to resist.
- It’s beautifully colorful, making it perfect for entertaining or family meals.
Recipe Information
- Preparation Time: 15 minutes
- Cooking Time: 0 minutes
- Total Time: 15 minutes
- Servings: 4 servings
- Course: Salad / Side Dish
- Cuisine: Greek / Mediterranean
- Calories: ~250 per serving
Ingredients
For the Salad
- 4 medium ripe tomatoes, cut into wedges
- 1 large cucumber, sliced into half-moons
- 1 medium red onion, thinly sliced
- 1 green bell pepper, thinly sliced into rings
- 1 cup Kalamata olives (pitted or whole)
- 200 g (7 oz) block of feta cheese (not crumbled, traditionally served as a slab)
For the Dressing
- ¼ cup extra-virgin olive oil
- 2 tbsp red wine vinegar or freshly squeezed lemon juice
- 1 tsp dried oregano (or fresh, finely chopped)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
Cooking Directions
Step-by-Step Preparation
Step 1: Prepare Vegetables
- Wash and dry all vegetables.
- Slice tomatoes into wedges.
- Peel cucumber (optional), then cut into half-moon slices.
- Thinly slice red onion.
- Cut green bell pepper into rings.
Step 2: Assemble the Salad
- Place tomatoes, cucumber, onion, and bell pepper in a large serving bowl or platter.
- Scatter Kalamata olives evenly over the top.
- Place the block of feta cheese on top of the vegetables.
Step 3: Make the Dressing
- In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, red wine vinegar (or lemon juice), oregano, salt, and pepper.
- Drizzle the dressing over the salad.
Step 4: Final Touch
- Sprinkle a little extra oregano over the feta.
- Serve immediately.
How to Serve
- Serve as a side dish alongside grilled meats, chicken souvlaki, or fish.
- Enjoy as a main meal with a slice of warm pita or crusty bread.
- Pair with hummus, tzatziki, or roasted vegetables for a complete Mediterranean spread.
Recipe Tips
- Use high-quality extra-virgin olive oil for authentic flavor.
- Keep the feta as a slab instead of crumbling — it’s the traditional Greek way.
- Use ripe, juicy tomatoes for the best flavor.
- Chill the vegetables slightly before serving for extra freshness.
- Don’t overdress; Greek salad should be lightly coated, not drenched.
Variations
- With Lettuce – Though not traditional, some versions include romaine for added crunch.
- With Capers – Add capers for an extra briny punch.
- Protein Boost – Top with grilled chicken, shrimp, or chickpeas for a complete meal.
- Vegan Version – Replace feta with vegan cheese or marinated tofu.
- Rustic Style – Keep vegetables in larger chunks for a farmhouse feel.
Freezing and Storage
- Freezing: Not suitable (fresh vegetables and feta don’t freeze well).
- Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 1 day. Best eaten fresh, as vegetables release water and feta softens over time.
Special Equipment Needed
- Large serving bowl or platter
- Sharp knife and cutting board
- Whisk (for dressing)
- Small bowl for mixing dressing
Conclusion
The Greek Salad with Feta Cheese and Kalamata Olives is a timeless Mediterranean dish that’s as healthy as it is delicious. With fresh vegetables, creamy feta, briny olives, and a simple olive oil dressing, it embodies the philosophy of Greek cuisine — fresh, simple, and flavorful. Perfect as a side or a light main, it’s a dish you’ll come back to again and again. Once you try this authentic recipe, you’ll see why it has become a staple around the world.
Greek Salad with Feta Cheese and Kalamata Olives
Description
The Greek Salad (Horiatiki Salad) is a refreshing, colorful, and healthy dish that captures the essence of Mediterranean cuisine. Originating from Greece, it is known for its simple yet vibrant ingredients — crisp cucumbers, juicy tomatoes, sweet red onions, tangy feta cheese, briny Kalamata olives, and a drizzle of olive oil with a touch of oregano.
Ingredients
For the Salad
For the Dressing
Instructions
-
Step 1: Prepare Vegetables: Wash and dry all vegetables. Slice tomatoes into wedges. Peel cucumber (optional), then cut into half-moon slices. Thinly slice red onion. Cut green bell pepper into rings.
-
Step 2: Assemble the Salad: Place tomatoes, cucumber, onion, and bell pepper in a large serving bowl or platter. Scatter Kalamata olives evenly over the top. Place the block of feta cheese on top of the vegetables.
-
Step 3: Make the Dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, red wine vinegar (or lemon juice), oregano, salt, and pepper. Drizzle the dressing over the salad.
-
Step 4: Final Touch: Sprinkle a little extra oregano over the feta. Serve immediately.
