Greek Salad, or Horiatiki, is a staple of Greek cuisine, celebrated for its simplicity and fresh, vibrant flavors. This classic salad features a combination of juicy tomatoes, crisp cucumbers, green bell peppers, red onions, and Kalamata olives, all chopped into bite-sized pieces. The vegetables are tossed together and topped with thick slices or large chunks of creamy feta cheese, making it a hearty and satisfying dish.
The dressing is a straightforward mix of high-quality olive oil, a splash of red wine vinegar, and a sprinkle of dried oregano, which enhances the natural flavors of the ingredients without overpowering them. Sometimes, a pinch of salt and pepper is added to taste. Horiatiki is typically garnished with fresh herbs such as parsley or dill and served with crusty bread to soak up the delicious juices.
Perfect as a side dish or a light meal on its own, Greek Salad embodies the essence of Mediterranean cuisine—fresh, healthy, and bursting with flavor. It’s a refreshing choice for hot summer days and a delightful addition to any meal, offering a taste of Greece that’s both authentic and delicious.
AuthorJulia ForesekCategoryAppetizers & Starters, Greek, Salads, Vegan Specialties, VegetarianDifficultyBeginnerPrepare the Vegetables:
In a large salad bowl, combine the tomato wedges, cucumber slices, bell pepper slices, and red onion.
Add the Olives and Feta:
Add the Kalamata olives to the salad bowl. Place the feta cheese on top of the vegetables. You can either leave the feta as a single slice or cut it into large cubes, depending on your preference.
Season the Salad:
Sprinkle the dried oregano over the salad. Drizzle with the extra virgin olive oil and red wine vinegar.
Toss and Serve:
Gently toss the salad to combine all the ingredients, being careful not to break up the feta cheese too much.
Season with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste. Remember that feta cheese and olives are already salty, so you might need less salt.
Garnish with chopped fresh parsley if desired.
Serve:
Serve the Greek salad immediately, preferably with crusty bread to soak up the delicious juices.
Ingredients
Directions
Prepare the Vegetables:
In a large salad bowl, combine the tomato wedges, cucumber slices, bell pepper slices, and red onion.
Add the Olives and Feta:
Add the Kalamata olives to the salad bowl. Place the feta cheese on top of the vegetables. You can either leave the feta as a single slice or cut it into large cubes, depending on your preference.
Season the Salad:
Sprinkle the dried oregano over the salad. Drizzle with the extra virgin olive oil and red wine vinegar.
Toss and Serve:
Gently toss the salad to combine all the ingredients, being careful not to break up the feta cheese too much.
Season with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste. Remember that feta cheese and olives are already salty, so you might need less salt.
Garnish with chopped fresh parsley if desired.
Serve:
Serve the Greek salad immediately, preferably with crusty bread to soak up the delicious juices.
Serving Suggestions:
Greek salad is often served as a side dish with grilled meats or seafood or as part of a larger Mediterranean spread. It’s also excellent on its own as a light meal.
Beverage Pairing:
- White Wine: A crisp and refreshing white wine like Assyrtiko or a Sauvignon Blanc complements the fresh flavors of the salad.
- Rosé Wine: A light and dry rosé can also pair nicely with the vibrant flavors of the vegetables and feta cheese.
- Sparkling Water: For a non-alcoholic option, sparkling water with a slice of lemon or lime is refreshing and pairs well with the salad.
