Greek Salad with Feta & Olives

A Greek Salad with Feta & Olives is the perfect dish for any occasion, whether it’s a family dinner, a summer barbecue, or a refreshing side for your favorite entrée. This vibrant Mediterranean salad features crisp cucumbers, juicy tomatoes, and creamy feta cheese, all tossed in a delightful herb vinaigrette. It’s not only easy to prepare but also packed with flavor, making it a must-try recipe that everyone will love.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick Preparation: With just 10 minutes of prep time, you can whip up this delicious salad without any cooking required.
• Fresh Ingredients: The combination of fresh vegetables and high-quality feta adds a burst of flavor that elevates this simple dish.
• Versatile Serving Options: Enjoy it as a light meal or serve it as a side dish alongside grilled meats or fish.
• Healthy Choice: Packed with vitamins and nutrients, this salad is a great addition to any balanced diet.
• Customizable Flavor: Feel free to add other favorite ingredients like bell peppers or avocado to suit your taste.

Tools and Preparation

To make the most out of your Greek Salad with Feta & Olives recipe, having the right tools will ensure an efficient preparation process. Here’s what you’ll need:

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Cutting board
• Sharp knife
• Mixing bowl
• Whisk

Importance of Each Tool

• Cutting board: Provides a stable surface for chopping vegetables safely.
• Sharp knife: Ensures clean cuts for even-sized pieces, enhancing presentation and texture.
• Mixing bowl: Offers ample space to combine all ingredients without spilling.
• Whisk: Helps create a smooth and well-blended dressing for the salad.

Ingredients

For the Salad

• 1 cup cucumber, sliced into half-moons
• 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved (or chopped large tomatoes)
• Red onion, thinly sliced
• 1 cup Kalamata olives
• 1 cup feta cheese, cubed

For the Dressing

• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 1 tsp apple vinegar vinegar
• 1 tsp dried oregano
• Salt & freshly cracked black pepper, to taste

How to Make Greek Salad with Feta & Olives

Step 1: Prepare the Vegetables

Start by slicing the cucumber into half-moons. Halve the cherry tomatoes or chop larger tomatoes into bite-sized pieces. Thinly slice the red onion.

Step 2: Assemble the Salad

In a large mixing bowl, combine the prepared cucumber, tomatoes, red onion, Kalamata olives, and cubed feta cheese. Toss gently to mix.

Step 3: Make the Dressing

In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, apple vinegar vinegar, dried oregano, salt, and freshly cracked black pepper until combined.

Step 4: Toss & Serve

Pour the dressing over the salad mixture. Toss everything gently until well-coated. Serve fresh for an enjoyable meal!

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cooking Time: 0 minutes
Total Time: 10 minutes
Kcal: ~250 kcal
Servings: 2

How to Serve Greek Salad with Feta & Olives

Greek Salad with Feta & Olives is a versatile dish that can enhance any meal. It’s perfect as a refreshing starter, a light lunch, or as a side for grilled meats.

As a Starter

• This salad can be served in small bowls as an appetizer, allowing guests to enjoy its vibrant flavors before the main course.

With Grilled Chicken or Fish

• Pair this Greek salad with grilled chicken or fish for a complete Mediterranean meal. The freshness of the salad complements the smoky flavors from grilling.

On a Buffet Table

• Include Greek Salad with Feta & Olives at your next gathering. Its colorful presentation and delicious taste will entice guests to dig in.

As a Light Lunch

• Enjoy a generous portion on its own for lunch. It’s filling yet light, making it perfect for warm days.

In a Wrap

• Use Greek salad as a filling for wraps. Combine it with grilled turkey or chicken for an easy and tasty lunch option.

How to Perfect Greek Salad with Feta & Olives

To make the best Greek salad, attention to detail is key. Here are some tips to elevate your dish:

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh cucumbers and tomatoes enhance the flavor and texture of your salad significantly.

• Choose Quality Feta: Opt for authentic feta cheese for the best creamy texture and rich flavor.

• Slice Evenly: Ensure all vegetables are cut uniformly for consistent texture in every bite.

• Chill Before Serving: Letting the salad sit in the fridge for about 30 minutes allows flavors to meld beautifully.

• Adjust Seasoning: Taste your dressing before adding it to the salad. Adjust salt and pepper according to your preference.

Best Side Dishes for Greek Salad with Feta & Olives

When serving Greek Salad with Feta & Olives, consider these delightful side dishes that pair wonderfully:

1. Grilled Lemon Herb Chicken: Tender chicken marinated in lemon juice and herbs complements the fresh flavors of the salad.

2. Roasted Vegetables: A mix of seasonal vegetables roasted until caramelized adds depth and sweetness alongside the salad.

3. Quinoa Pilaf: Lightly seasoned quinoa pilaf brings protein and fiber while enhancing the Mediterranean theme.

4. Stuffed Bell Peppers: Bell peppers filled with rice, vegetables, and spices pair nicely with the crispness of the salad.

5. Pita Bread with Hummus: Serve warm pita bread alongside hummus for dipping; this brings additional texture and flavor contrasts.

6. Tzatziki Sauce: This cool yogurt dip made with cucumbers and garlic is refreshing and enhances any grilled meat served alongside.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

A few common mistakes can affect the quality of your Greek Salad with Feta & Olives. Here are some tips to ensure your salad is perfect.

• Ignoring Freshness: Using stale or overripe vegetables can ruin the salad’s taste. Always select fresh produce for the best flavor and texture.

• Overdressing: Adding too much dressing can make the salad soggy. Start with a small amount, and you can always add more to suit your taste.

• Skipping Seasoning: Forgetting to season your salad with salt and pepper can lead to bland flavors. A pinch of salt enhances the taste of all ingredients.

• Cutting Vegetables Wrong: Incorrectly cutting vegetables can affect their texture and presentation. Always slice cucumbers into half-moons and tomatoes evenly for a uniform look.

• Not Letting It Rest: Serving immediately after mixing may not allow flavors to meld. Letting it sit for a few minutes can enhance the overall taste.

• Neglecting Garnishes: Skipping out on garnishes like fresh herbs or extra olives can make the dish less visually appealing. A little garnish elevates both appearance and flavor.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftovers in an airtight container.
• Consume within 2-3 days for optimal freshness.

Freezing Greek Salad with Feta & Olives

• Freezing is not recommended as it can change the texture of fresh vegetables.
• If necessary, freeze only the dressing separately and add it fresh later.

Reheating Greek Salad with Feta & Olives

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and warm for about 10 minutes without overheating.
• Microwave: Heat in short bursts on low power, stirring occasionally, until just warm.
• Stovetop: Gently heat over low in a pan, stirring frequently to prevent cooking.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making Greek Salad with Feta & Olives that may help you further.

Can I customize my Greek Salad with Feta & Olives?

Absolutely! Feel free to add other vegetables like bell peppers or radishes for extra crunch and flavor.

What type of olives should I use in Greek Salad with Feta & Olives?

Kalamata olives are traditional, but you can also use green olives or any variety you prefer for different tastes.

How do I make my own dressing for Greek Salad with Feta & Olives?

Simply whisk together olive oil, vinegar, oregano, salt, and pepper. Adjust measurements based on your preference!

Can I prepare Greek Salad with Feta & Olives ahead of time?

Yes! You can chop vegetables in advance but wait until serving time to dress the salad for maximum freshness.

Final Thoughts

This Greek Salad with Feta & Olives is not only refreshing but also versatile. You can enjoy it as a side dish or a light main course. Feel free to customize it by adding your favorite ingredients or adjusting the dressing to match your taste preferences. Give it a try today!