3 mins read
My Favorite Greek Salad Recipe with Feta and Olives
As a lover of fresh, vibrant flavors, I can’t help but rave about my go-to Greek salad recipe featuring creamy feta cheese and briny olives. Let me guide you through this delightful culinary journey!
Ingredients
To create this delicious salad, you’ll need:
- Crisp Greens: Start with a base of fresh, crispy lettuce. Romaine or mixed greens work wonderfully.
- Cucumbers: Slice them thinly for a refreshing crunch.
- Tomatoes: Opt for juicy, ripe tomatoes, cut into bite-sized pieces.
- Red Onion: Finely slice red onion for a hint of sharpness.
- Kalamata Olives: These briny olives add a burst of flavor. Don’t forget to pit them!
- Feta Cheese: Crumble some creamy feta cheese over the top for richness.
- Extra Virgin Olive Oil: A drizzle of high-quality olive oil ties everything together.
- Red Wine Vinegar: For a tangy kick, use red wine vinegar.
- Dried Oregano: Sprinkle some dried oregano for that classic Greek flavor.
- Salt and Pepper: Season to taste with salt and freshly ground black pepper.
Instructions
- Prepare the Greens: Wash and dry the lettuce, tearing it into bite-sized pieces. Place it in a large salad bowl.
- Add the Veggies: Slice the cucumbers and tomatoes, and thinly slice the red onion. Add them to the bowl with the lettuce.
- Incorporate the Olives and Feta: Pit the Kalamata olives if necessary and scatter them over the salad. Crumble the feta cheese on top.
- Make the Dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, red wine vinegar, dried oregano, salt, and pepper until well combined.
- Dress the Salad: Drizzle the dressing over the salad ingredients. Toss gently to coat everything evenly.
- Serve and Enjoy: Transfer the salad to individual plates or a serving platter. It’s ready to enjoy!
Tips for Perfection
- Freshness is Key: Use the freshest ingredients possible for the best flavor and texture.
- Customize to Your Taste: Feel free to add extras like bell peppers, pepperoncini, or even some grilled chicken for extra protein.
- Let it Rest: Allow the salad to sit for a few minutes after tossing to let the flavors meld together.
- Serve Chilled: This salad is best served cold, so keep it refrigerated until you’re ready to enjoy it.
Health Benefits
This Greek salad isn’t just delicious—it’s also packed with nutritional goodness:
- Vitamins and Minerals: The assortment of vegetables provides a range of vitamins and minerals essential for overall health.
- Healthy Fats: Olives and olive oil contribute heart-healthy monounsaturated fats to the dish.
- Protein: Feta cheese offers a protein boost, making this salad a satisfying meal option.
Conclusion
With its refreshing combination of crisp vegetables, tangy olives, and creamy feta cheese, this Greek salad is a true culinary delight. Whether you serve it as a side dish or enjoy it as a light meal on its own, it’s sure to impress your taste buds and leave you craving more. Give it a try—you won’t be disappointed!