The magic of a Greek salad lies in its simplicity and the freshness of its ingredients. Each bite offers a burst of Mediterranean flavors: the crisp, cool cucumber contrasting with the sweet, juicy cherry tomatoes; the crunch of bell peppers melding with the tangy bite of red onion. The salty, briny flavor of the Kalamata olives perfectly complements the creamy, slightly tangy feta cheese. This harmonious blend is then elevated by a simple dressing of olive oil and red wine vinegar, enriched with the earthy essence of dried oregano. The result is a refreshing and satisfying salad that is not only healthy but also incredibly delicious, embodying the essence of Greek cuisine in every mouthful. Whether enjoyed as a side dish or a light main, Greek salad is a timeless favorite that brings a touch of sunny Greece to your table.
Ingredients:
- 1 cucumber, sliced into half moons
- 1 green bell pepper, chopped
- 1 red bell pepper, chopped
- 1 pint cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1/2 red onion, thinly sliced
- 1 cup Kalamata olives, pitted
- 1 cup feta cheese, cubed or crumbled
- 1/4 cup extra-virgin olive oil
- 2 tablespoons red wine vinegar
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
- Prepare the Vegetables: Begin by washing and drying all vegetables. Slice the cucumber into thin half-moons, chop the green and red bell peppers into bite-sized pieces, halve the cherry tomatoes, and thinly slice the red onion. Place all these ingredients into a large salad bowl.
- Add the Olives and Cheese: Add the Kalamata olives and feta cheese to the bowl with the vegetables. If you prefer, you can crumble the feta cheese instead of cubing it. Both methods add a wonderful, salty flavor to the salad.
- Make the Dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together the extra-virgin olive oil, red wine vinegar, and dried oregano until well combined. Season with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste. The dressing should have a balanced, tangy flavor with a hint of herbaceousness from the oregano.
- Dress the Salad: Pour the dressing over the salad and gently toss all ingredients together until everything is well coated. Be careful not to over-mix, as you want to keep the vegetables intact and the feta in larger chunks.
- Serve and Garnish: Taste the salad and adjust seasoning if necessary. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley if using. Serve immediately to enjoy the full burst of fresh flavors.
- Optional Variations: For additional protein, you can add grilled chicken, shrimp, or chickpeas. If you enjoy a bit more texture, consider adding some croutons or a sprinkle of pine nuts. This salad is versatile and can easily be adjusted to suit your personal preferences.
