Greek Salad with Feta

Introduction

The Greek Salad with Feta, also known as Horiatiki Salad, is a refreshing Mediterranean dish that embodies the flavors of Greece in one vibrant bowl. Made with juicy tomatoes, crisp cucumbers, red onions, green peppers, Kalamata olives, and topped with creamy feta cheese, this salad bursts with color and flavor. Dressed simply with extra virgin olive oil, lemon juice, and oregano, it proves that fresh ingredients speak for themselves.

It’s not just a salad—it’s a wholesome, zesty, and satisfying meal that’s light yet filling. Perfect as a side or even a main course, it’s an iconic dish that celebrates simplicity and health.

Why I Love This Recipe

I love this recipe because it’s fresh, tangy, and effortless to make. Every bite is a combination of crunchy vegetables, salty feta, and briny olives, balanced with the earthiness of olive oil. It requires no cooking, just chopping and assembling, which makes it one of the quickest healthy meals you can prepare.

It’s also a recipe I love for gatherings because it always looks beautiful on the table and pairs with so many dishes—grilled meats, seafood, bread, or even on its own.

Why It’s a Must-Try Dish

• Quick & Easy: Ready in just 15 minutes.
• Healthy & Nutritious: Packed with vitamins, fiber, and healthy fats.
• Authentic Mediterranean Flavor: Simple, rustic, and traditional.
• Versatile: Can be enjoyed as a side dish, appetizer, or main salad.
• Crowd-Pleaser: Loved by almost everyone, even those who aren’t “salad fans.”

Recipe Information

• Preparation Time: 15 minutes
• Cooking Time: None
• Total Time: 15 minutes
• Servings: 4
• Calories per Serving: ~220 kcal

Cuisine & Course

• Cuisine: Greek / Mediterranean
• Course: Salad / Appetizer / Side

Ingredients

For the Salad:

• 3 medium ripe tomatoes, chopped into wedges
• 1 large cucumber, sliced (peeled if desired)
• 1 green bell pepper, thinly sliced
• ½ medium red onion, thinly sliced
• ½ cup Kalamata olives (pitted)
• 150 g (about 5 oz) feta cheese, cut into blocks or crumbled

For the Dressing:

• 3 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
• 1 tbsp fresh lemon juice (or red wine vinegar for authentic flavor)
• 1 tsp dried oregano
• Salt & black pepper, to taste

Simple Cooking Directions

1. Chop the vegetables and arrange in a large bowl.
2. Add olives and top with feta.
3. Whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, oregano, salt, and pepper.
4. Drizzle dressing over salad.
5. Toss lightly and serve.

Step-by-Step Preparation Method

Step 1: Prepare Vegetables

• Wash and chop tomatoes into wedges.
• Slice cucumber into rounds or half-moons.
• Thinly slice red onion and bell pepper.

Step 2: Assemble the Salad

• Place vegetables in a large salad bowl.
• Add Kalamata olives.
• Top with a block (or crumble) of feta cheese.

Step 3: Make the Dressing

• In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, lemon juice (or vinegar), oregano, salt, and pepper.

Step 4: Dress and Serve

• Drizzle dressing evenly over the salad.
• Toss gently, or leave feta on top as tradition dictates.
• Serve immediately.

How to Serve

• Traditionally served in a shallow bowl or platter with feta on top.
• Pairs perfectly with grilled meats, seafood, souvlaki, or pita bread.
• Can be served as a starter, side, or light main dish.

Additional Recipe Tips

• Use ripe, in-season tomatoes for the best flavor.
• Always use good quality feta (preferably Greek, made with sheep’s milk).
• Chill ingredients slightly before making for an extra refreshing salad.
• Do not overmix—Greek salad is meant to stay chunky.

Variations

• Add Capers: For extra briny flavor.
• Greek Salad with Lettuce: A common modern variation (though not traditional).
• Protein Boost: Add grilled chicken, shrimp, or chickpeas.
• Herb Upgrade: Fresh parsley or mint can be added for brightness.

Freezing & Storage

• Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days.
• Feta & Dressing: Store separately if preparing ahead.
• Freezing: Not recommended, as fresh vegetables lose texture after thawing.

Special Equipment Needed

• Sharp knife & cutting board
• Large salad bowl
• Small whisk or fork (for dressing)

Conclusion

The Greek Salad with Feta is the epitome of fresh, healthy, and flavorful eating. With its crisp vegetables, briny olives, creamy feta, and simple olive oil dressing, it captures the essence of the Mediterranean diet. It’s quick to prepare, visually stunning, and irresistibly delicious. Whether you enjoy it as a refreshing side or a light main meal, this Greek classic is one recipe you’ll come back to again and again.