Dive into the Mediterranean with this delightful Greek salad recipe! Bursting with fresh vegetables, tangy feta cheese, and a zesty dressing, this dish is not only colorful but also packed with flavor. Perfect for any occasion, it’s a great side for grilled meats or a light meal on its own. Let’s explore how to create this refreshing salad that will transport your taste buds straight to Greece!
Ingredients
– 2 cups mixed greens (romaine, lettuce)
– 1 large cucumber, sliced
– 2 medium tomatoes, diced
– 1/2 red onion, thinly sliced
– 1/2 cup Kalamata olives
– 1 cup feta cheese, cubed
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 2 tablespoons red wine vinegar
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh oregano for garnish
Servings and Cooking Time
This recipe serves 4 people. Preparation time is about 15 minutes, with no cooking time required.
Nutritional Value
Each serving (1/4 of the salad) contains approximately:
– Calories: 180
– Protein: 5g
– Carbohydrates: 8g
– Dietary Fiber: 3g
– Fat: 15g
This nutritional value is based on one serving.
Step-by-Step Cooking Process
- Wash all the vegetables thoroughly.
- In a large bowl, add the mixed greens.
- Slice the cucumber and add it to the bowl.
- Dice the tomatoes and incorporate them into the salad.
- Thinly slice the red onion and add it on top.
- Sprinkle the Kalamata olives over the salad.
- Add the cubed feta cheese for a creamy texture.
- In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil and red wine vinegar.
- Season the dressing with salt and pepper to taste.
- Drizzle the dressing over the salad and toss gently.
- Garnish with fresh oregano before serving.
Alternative Ingredients
If you’re looking for alternatives, you can use goat cheese instead of feta for a creamier texture. Cherry tomatoes can replace regular tomatoes for a sweeter flavor, and you can switch out Kalamata olives for green olives based on your preference.
Serving and Pairings
This Greek salad pairs beautifully with grilled chicken, fish, or lamb. It can also be served alongside pita bread and hummus for a Mediterranean feast.
Storage and Reheating
Store leftover Greek salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. It’s best enjoyed fresh, but if needed, you can rehydrate it slightly with a drizzle of olive oil. Avoid freezing, as the vegetables will become mushy when thawed.
Cooking Mistakes
- Using stale or wilted greens.
- Overdressing the salad, which can make it soggy.
- Not seasoning the dressing adequately.
- Chopping vegetables too small, losing texture.
- Using low-quality olives or feta, which affects flavor.
Helpful Tips
- Chill your salad bowl beforehand for extra freshness.
- Use a variety of tomatoes for a pop of color.
- Let the salad sit for 10 minutes after dressing to enhance flavors.
- Experiment with different herbs like basil or mint.
FAQs
Can I make Greek salad ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the salad ahead of time, but it’s best to add the dressing just before serving to keep the veggies crisp.
What can I use instead of feta cheese?
You can substitute feta with goat cheese or even a dairy-free cheese option for a different flavor profile.
Is Greek salad healthy?
Absolutely! Greek salad is low in calories and packed with vitamins and minerals from fresh vegetables, making it a healthy choice.
Can I add protein to my Greek salad?
Yes, grilled chicken, shrimp, or chickpeas are excellent additions for extra protein.
What dressing is best for Greek salad?
A simple olive oil and red wine vinegar dressing works best, but you can customize it with lemon juice or herbs for added flavor.
Conclusion
This Greek salad recipe is a perfect addition to any meal, combining freshness and flavor in every bite. Enjoy it as a side dish or a light main course, and let the vibrant ingredients shine. With its simple preparation and wholesome ingredients, it’s sure to become a favorite in your kitchen!
Greek Salad Recipe
Ingredients
- 2 cups mixed greens
- 1 large cucumber sliced
- 2 medium tomatoes diced
- 1/2 red onion thinly sliced
- 1/2 cup Kalamata olives
- 1 cup feta cheese cubed
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 2 tablespoons red wine vinegar
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh oregano for garnish
Instructions
- Wash all the vegetables thoroughly.
- In a large bowl, add the mixed greens.
- Slice the cucumber and add it to the bowl.
- Dice the tomatoes and incorporate them into the salad.
- Thinly slice the red onion and add it on top.
- Sprinkle the Kalamata olives over the salad.
- Add the cubed feta cheese for a creamy texture.
- In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil and red wine vinegar.
- Season the dressing with salt and pepper to taste.
- Drizzle the dressing over the salad and toss gently.
- Garnish with fresh oregano before serving.
Nutrition
