Greek Salad with Feta & Olives

A Greek Salad with Feta & Olives is the perfect dish for any occasion, whether you’re hosting a summer barbecue or enjoying a quiet dinner at home. This refreshing Mediterranean salad is not only quick to prepare but also bursting with flavor and vibrant colors. The combination of crisp cucumbers, juicy tomatoes, and creamy feta makes it a standout choice that everyone will love.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick Prep Time: With only 10 minutes needed, this salad is perfect for last-minute meals.
• Fresh Ingredients: Enjoy the wholesome goodness of fresh produce that brings life to your plate.
• Versatile Dish: Serve it as a side or enjoy it as a light main course; it fits any menu.
• Healthy Choice: Packed with vitamins and healthy fats, it’s good for both body and soul.
• Flavorful Dressing: A simple herb vinaigrette elevates the taste without overwhelming the ingredients.

Tools and Preparation

To make your Greek Salad with Feta & Olives, having the right tools will make the process smooth and enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Mixing bowl
• Cutting board
• Chef’s knife
• Whisk

Importance of Each Tool

• Mixing bowl: Keeps all ingredients contained while allowing for easy tossing.
• Chef’s knife: Ensures precise cuts for even-sized vegetables, enhancing presentation.

Ingredients

For the Salad

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

For the Dressing

• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 1 tsp apple vinegar
• 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 washing all your vegetables. Slice the cucumber into half-moons, halve the cherry tomatoes or chop larger tomatoes into bite-sized pieces, and thinly slice the red onion.

Step 2: Assemble the Salad

In a large mixing bowl, combine the sliced cucumber, halved tomatoes, red onion, Kalamata olives, and cubed feta cheese. Gently mix them together to avoid breaking up the feta too much.

Step 3: Make the Dressing

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

Step 4: Toss & Serve

Pour your dressing over the salad mixture. Toss gently to ensure all ingredients are coated in the dressing. Serve fresh immediately for the best flavor!

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

Enjoy this delightful Greek Salad with Feta & Olives as part of your next meal!

How to Serve Greek Salad with Feta & Olives

Serving Greek Salad with Feta & Olives is a delightful experience that enhances any meal. This refreshing salad pairs well with various dishes and can also be served as a standalone appetizer.

As a Starter

• Start your meal off right by serving this salad as a light appetizer. Its fresh flavors awaken the palate and set the tone for the main course.

With Grilled Chicken

• Pairing Greek salad with grilled chicken adds protein while complementing the Mediterranean flavors. The juicy chicken enhances the overall taste and texture of the dish.

On a Buffet Table

• Include Greek salad in your buffet spread for gatherings. Its vibrant colors attract attention, making it an appealing choice for guests looking for something fresh.

As a Light Lunch

• Enjoy Greek salad on its own for a light lunch. It’s quick, easy to prepare, and provides a satisfying meal without feeling heavy.

With Pita Bread

• Serve Greek salad alongside warm pita bread for dipping. The bread soaks up the delicious dressing and complements the crunchy vegetables.

How to Perfect Greek Salad with Feta & Olives

Creating the perfect Greek salad involves simple techniques to enhance flavor and freshness. Here are some tips:

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Always opt for fresh cucumbers, tomatoes, and herbs to elevate the overall taste of your salad.
• Cube Feta Properly: Cut feta into bite-sized pieces to ensure every forkful includes cheese, enhancing creaminess throughout.
• Chill Before Serving: Refrigerate your salad for about 30 minutes before serving to allow flavors to meld together beautifully.
• Adjust Seasoning: Taste your dressing before adding it to the salad. Adjust salt and pepper according to your preference for optimal flavor.
• Experiment with Add-Ins: Consider adding bell peppers or avocado for extra flavor and nutrition while keeping it aligned with Mediterranean cuisine.
• Serve Immediately: For best texture, serve your Greek salad right after tossing it with the dressing to maintain crispness.

Best Side Dishes for Greek Salad with Feta & Olives

Greek Salad with Feta & Olives pairs well with many side dishes that enhance its Mediterranean flair. Here are some great options:

1. Grilled Chicken Skewers: Marinated chicken grilled to perfection adds protein and complements the fresh flavors of your salad.
2. Stuffed Grape Leaves: These tangy and savory treats offer a unique taste that pairs wonderfully with the lightness of Greek salad.
3. Mediterranean Quinoa: A nutritious side dish that brings additional texture and complements the flavors of olives and feta cheese.
4. Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal roasted veggies add warmth and depth, making them an excellent accompaniment to your meal.
5. Hummus Platter: A creamy hummus platter served with assorted vegetables or pita chips offers a delightful contrast in textures.
6. Fried Zucchini Rounds: Crispy fried zucchini adds crunch while balancing out the freshness of your Greek salad.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making a Greek Salad with Feta & Olives, it’s easy to make some common errors. Here are a few tips to help you get it right.

• Overdressing the Salad: Adding too much dressing can overwhelm the fresh ingredients. Start with a small amount and add more if needed.
• Using Low-Quality Ingredients: Fresh, high-quality vegetables and olives are key. Invest in good produce for the best flavor.
• Skipping the Oregano: Oregano adds authentic Mediterranean flavor. Don’t skip it; it makes a big difference in taste.
• Not Chilling Ingredients: Warm veggies can wilt your salad. Chill your ingredients before assembling for a refreshing crunch.
• Cutting Vegetables Incorrectly: Uniform sizes ensure even distribution of flavors and textures. Cut all veggies consistently for the best look and taste.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container for up to 2 days.
• Keep dressing separate until ready to serve.

Freezing Greek Salad with Feta & Olives

• Freezing is not recommended as cucumbers and tomatoes lose texture when thawed.
• If necessary, store components separately rather than assembled.

Reheating Greek Salad with Feta & Olives

• Oven: Not recommended, as salads are best served fresh.
• Microwave: Avoid reheating; serve cold for optimal taste.
• Stovetop: Not applicable; this dish is meant to be enjoyed cold.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about preparing Greek Salad with Feta & Olives.

Can I substitute feta cheese?

You can use plant-based feta alternatives to keep the salad vegan-friendly while maintaining a similar flavor profile.

How can I customize my Greek Salad with Feta & Olives?

Feel free to add other vegetables like bell peppers, radishes, or even chickpeas for extra protein and crunch.

What should I serve with Greek Salad with Feta & Olives?

This salad pairs well with grilled chicken or fish for a complete meal but is also great on its own as a light lunch.

Is Greek Salad healthy?

Yes! Packed with fresh vegetables, healthy fats from olive oil, and protein from feta cheese, it’s both nutritious and satisfying.

Final Thoughts

The Greek Salad with Feta & Olives is refreshing, versatile, and perfect for any occasion. With its vibrant colors and flavors, you can easily customize it by adding your favorite ingredients. Give this recipe a try—you won’t be disappointed!

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Greek Salad with Feta & Olives

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• Author: Amelia
• Total Time: 10 minutes
• Yield: Serves 2

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Description

Experience the vibrant flavors of the Mediterranean with this Greek Salad with Feta & Olives. This refreshing dish combines crisp cucumbers, juicy tomatoes, tangy Kalamata olives, and creamy feta cheese, all tossed in a delightful herb vinaigrette. Perfect as a light lunch or a colorful side dish for any gathering, it takes just 10 minutes to prepare, making it an ideal choice for busy weeknights or summer barbecues. The combination of fresh ingredients not only tantalizes your taste buds but also offers a healthy dose of vitamins and healthy fats.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 1 cup cucumber, sliced
• 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
• 1 red onion, thinly sliced
• 1 cup Kalamata olives
• 1 cup feta cheese, cubed
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 1 tsp apple vinegar
• 1 tsp dried oregano
• Salt & freshly cracked black pepper, to taste

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Instructions

1. Wash and slice the cucumber into half-moons, halve the cherry tomatoes, and thinly slice the red onion.
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine cucumber, tomatoes, onion, olives, and feta cheese. Gently mix to avoid breaking up the feta.
3. In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, apple vinegar, oregano, salt, and pepper.
4. Pour dressing over the salad mixture and toss gently to coat all ingredients. Serve immediately for best flavor.

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 0 minutes
• Category: Salad
• Method: Mixing
• Cuisine: Mediterranean

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1/2 of the recipe (250g)
• Calories: 250
• Sugar: 4g
• Sodium: 620mg
• Fat: 20g
• Saturated Fat: 6g
• Unsaturated Fat: 14g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 18g
• Fiber: 4g
• Protein: 5g
• Cholesterol: 15mg