Print
clock clock iconcutlery cutlery iconflag flag iconfolder folder iconinstagram instagram iconpinterest pinterest iconfacebook facebook iconprint print iconsquares squares iconheart heart iconheart solid heart solid icon
Authentic Mediterranean Greek Salad

Authentic Mediterranean Greek Salad

The Authentic Mediterranean Greek Salad is a vibrant and refreshing dish showcasing crisp cucumbers, ripe tomatoes, briny Kalamata olives, and creamy feta cheese, all tossed in a light dressing of extra virgin olive oil, oregano, and fresh lemon juice or red wine vinegar. This healthy, colorful, and easy-to-make salad captures the essence of Mediterranean cuisine and is perfect for light lunches, side dishes, or snacks.

  • Total Time: 15 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings 1x

Ingredients

Scale

Fresh Vegetables

  • 2 medium fresh cucumbers, washed and sliced into half-moons or quarters
  • 3 ripe tomatoes (vine-ripened or cherry), chopped into bite-sized pieces
  • 1 small red onion, thinly sliced
  • 1/2 cup Kalamata olives, pitted

Cheese

  • 150g (about 5 oz) feta cheese, crumbled or cut into large chunks

Dressing & Seasonings

  • 3 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
  • 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice or red wine vinegar
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano or 1 tablespoon fresh oregano, chopped
  • Sea salt, to taste
  • Freshly ground black pepper, to taste

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Vegetables: Wash and dry the cucumbers and tomatoes thoroughly. Slice the cucumbers into half-moons or quarters, depending on your preference. Chop the tomatoes into bite-sized pieces, and thinly slice the red onion to ensure even flavor distribution.
  2. Combine Ingredients in a Bowl: In a large salad bowl, gently toss the cucumbers, tomatoes, red onions, and Kalamata olives together, ensuring the flavors are evenly mixed without bruising the delicate vegetables.
  3. Add the Cheese: Top the salad with large chunks or crumbled feta cheese. The creamy texture will contrast beautifully with the crunchy vegetables and salty olives.
  4. Dress the Salad: In a small bowl, whisk together the extra virgin olive oil, fresh lemon juice or red wine vinegar, oregano, sea salt, and freshly ground black pepper. Pour the dressing over the salad and toss gently to coat every ingredient.
  5. Serve Immediately: The salad is best enjoyed fresh to appreciate the crisp textures and bright flavors at their peak. Optionally, garnish with freshly chopped parsley or dill before serving.

Notes

  • Use Quality Ingredients: Choose the freshest vegetables and highest-quality olive oil to let every ingredient shine.
  • Don’t Overdress: Add dressing gradually to avoid overwhelming the salad and preserve crispness.
  • Chill Before Serving: Let the salad rest in the refrigerator for 15 minutes to allow flavors to meld beautifully.
  • Opt for Block Feta: Crumble feta from a block rather than using pre-crumbled for better texture and flavor.
  • Slice Onions Thinly: Thin slicing mellows the sharpness and integrates well without overpowering.
  • Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two days; keep dressing separate to avoid sogginess.
  • Freezing: Not recommended as it affects texture and flavor.
  • Reheating: Best served cold or at room temperature; reheating diminishes freshness.
  • Author: Lina
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 0 minutes
  • Category: Appetizers
  • Method: No Cook
  • Cuisine: Mediterranean, Greek
  • Diet: Gluten Free

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 cup (approximate)
  • Calories: 180 kcal
  • Sugar: 4 g
  • Sodium: 480 mg
  • Fat: 15 g
  • Saturated Fat: 5 g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 9 g
  • Trans Fat: 0 g
  • Carbohydrates: 6 g
  • Fiber: 2 g
  • Protein: 4 g
  • Cholesterol: 15 mg

Keywords: Greek salad, Mediterranean salad, healthy salad, fresh vegetable salad, feta cheese salad, easy Greek salad, vegan option