How to Make Classic Greek Salad: A Refreshing Mediterranean Delight


How to Make Classic Greek Salad: A Refreshing Mediterranean Delight

The Classic Greek Salad, also known as Horiatiki, is a traditional dish that captures the essence of the Mediterranean—simple, fresh, and full of flavor. Made with crisp vegetables, briny olives, creamy feta cheese, and a drizzle of olive oil, this salad is both healthy and delicious. Perfect as a side dish or a light meal, here's how you can make an authentic Greek salad at home.

Ingredients:

  • 2 medium ripe tomatoes, cut into wedges
  • 1 cucumber, peeled and sliced into half-moons
  • 1 small red onion, thinly sliced
  • 1 green bell pepper, thinly sliced (optional)
  • A handful of Kalamata olives (pitted or whole)
  • 100–150 grams of feta cheese (in a block, not crumbled)
  • 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano
  • Salt to taste
  • 1 teaspoon red wine vinegar or lemon juice (optional)

Instructions:

Step 1: Prepare the Vegetables

  1. Wash all vegetables thoroughly.
  2. Cut the tomatoes into wedges. If they are large, you can halve the wedges.
  3. Peel the cucumber (optional) and cut into thick slices or half-moons.
  4. Thinly slice the red onion and green bell pepper.

Step 2: Assemble the Salad

  1. In a large mixing bowl or serving platter, add the chopped tomatoes, cucumber, onion, and green pepper.
  2. Scatter the Kalamata olives over the vegetables.
  3. Place a thick slice or block of feta cheese on top of the salad.

Step 3: Season and Dress

  1. Drizzle the extra virgin olive oil generously over the salad and cheese.
  2. Sprinkle dried oregano evenly over the top.
  3. Add a pinch of salt if needed (feta and olives are already salty).
  4. For a slight tang, add a dash of red wine vinegar or a squeeze of fresh lemon juice (optional).

Serving Suggestions:

  • Serve chilled or at room temperature.
  • Enjoy it with warm crusty bread or alongside grilled meat or fish.
  • Pairs beautifully with other Mediterranean dishes like tzatziki, hummus, or pita.

Tips:

  • Use quality ingredients: Since this salad is raw and simple, the freshness and quality of the ingredients matter most.
  • Don’t crumble the feta: Traditional Greek salad uses a block of feta on top.
  • No lettuce: Classic Greek salad does not include lettuce or leafy greens.

Conclusion:

The Classic Greek Salad is a celebration of fresh, simple ingredients brought together in perfect harmony. It’s light yet satisfying, ideal for hot days or when you want a quick, nutritious meal. With just a few steps and no cooking involved, this iconic salad is as easy to make as it is to enjoy. Give it a try, and bring a taste of the Mediterranean to your table!

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