Greek salad, also known as Horiatiki, is a vibrant and refreshing dish that embodies the heart of Mediterranean cuisine. Made with crisp cucumbers, juicy tomatoes, tangy feta cheese, and a simple yet flavorful dressing, this salad is a staple in Greek households and a must-have for summer gatherings.
This salad is more than just a dish—it’s a taste of Greece on a plate. Picture yourself sitting in a seaside taverna, with a gentle breeze carrying the scent of olive groves and the sound of waves lapping against the shore. Greek salad captures that same essence, offering a perfect balance of flavors and textures. It’s a dish that celebrates fresh, wholesome ingredients, making it an excellent choice for a light lunch, a refreshing side, or even a quick snack.
In Greece, this salad is traditionally served without lettuce—just the pure flavors of tomatoes, cucumbers, red onions, olives, and feta cheese, all drizzled with high-quality olive oil and a sprinkle of oregano. It’s the ultimate no-fuss, no-cook recipe that delivers incredible flavor with minimal effort. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or looking for a healthy meal option, this Greek salad is guaranteed to be a hit.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Fresh and Healthy – Packed with vitamins, antioxidants, and heart-healthy olive oil, this salad is both nourishing and delicious.
- Quick and Easy – No cooking required! Just chop, toss, and enjoy.
- Authentic Mediterranean Flavor – A simple yet bold combination of ingredients that transport you straight to Greece.
- Perfect for Any Occasion – Serve it as a side dish, a light meal, or pair it with grilled meats, seafood, or warm pita bread.
- Naturally Vegetarian and Gluten-Free – A wholesome dish that fits various dietary needs.
Authentic Greek Salad – A Fresh and Flavorful Mediterranean Delight
Description
Greek salad, also known as Horiatiki, is a vibrant and refreshing dish that embodies the heart of Mediterranean cuisine. Made with crisp cucumbers, juicy tomatoes, tangy feta cheese, and a simple yet flavorful dressing, this salad is a staple in Greek households and a must-have for summer gatherings.
This salad is more than just a dish—it’s a taste of Greece on a plate. Picture yourself sitting in a seaside taverna, with a gentle breeze carrying the scent of olive groves and the sound of waves lapping against the shore. Greek salad captures that same essence, offering a perfect balance of flavors and textures. It’s a dish that celebrates fresh, wholesome ingredients, making it an excellent choice for a light lunch, a refreshing side, or even a quick snack.
In Greece, this salad is traditionally served without lettuce—just the pure flavors of tomatoes, cucumbers, red onions, olives, and feta cheese, all drizzled with high-quality olive oil and a sprinkle of oregano. It’s the ultimate no-fuss, no-cook recipe that delivers incredible flavor with minimal effort. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or looking for a healthy meal option, this Greek salad is guaranteed to be a hit.
Ingredients
- 4 large ripe tomatoes, cut into wedges
- 1 cucumber, sliced into half-moons
- 1 small red onion, thinly sliced
- 1 green bell pepper, sliced into rings
- ½ cup Kalamata olives, pitted
- 6 oz feta cheese, cut into thick slices or crumbled
- ¼ cup extra virgin olive oil
- 1 tablespoon red wine vinegar
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
Instructions
Start by washing all the fresh ingredients thoroughly. Tomatoes should be ripe yet firm, as they release their juices and enhance the dressing naturally. Cut them into wedges and place them in a large mixing bowl.
Next, slice the cucumber into half-moons—if the skin is thick or waxy, you can peel it, but leaving it on adds extra crunch and nutrients. Thinly slice the red onion for a mild yet tangy bite, and cut the green bell pepper into thin rings for a slight sweetness and crispness.
Add the sliced vegetables to the bowl, followed by Kalamata olives. These olives bring a briny, slightly fruity depth that is key to an authentic Greek salad. Do not substitute them with regular black olives, as the flavor profile is entirely different.
Greek salad traditionally includes a large slab of feta cheese placed on top, rather than crumbling it. This keeps the cheese intact, allowing each person to break off pieces as they eat. However, if you prefer, you can crumble the feta for easier mixing.
In a small bowl, whisk together the extra virgin olive oil, red wine vinegar, dried oregano, salt, and black pepper. Drizzle this simple yet flavorful dressing over the salad. The key to a good Greek salad dressing is high-quality olive oil, as it brings out the best in all the ingredients.
Gently toss everything together, ensuring that the flavors meld while keeping the feta in large chunks. Let the salad sit for 5-10 minutes before serving, allowing the vegetables to soak up the dressing. Serve immediately with warm pita bread or alongside grilled meats for a full Mediterranean meal.
Notes
- If you prefer a more intense flavor, let the salad sit for 20-30 minutes before serving. The juices from the tomatoes and cucumbers will mix with the dressing, creating a natural marinade.
- Feel free to customize the salad with additional toppings like capers, fresh basil, or roasted red peppers for a twist on the classic.
- If you’re making this ahead of time, add the dressing just before serving to prevent the vegetables from becoming soggy.
Ingredients You’ll Need
- 4 large ripe tomatoes, cut into wedges
- 1 cucumber, sliced into half-moons
- 1 small red onion, thinly sliced
- 1 green bell pepper, sliced into rings
- ½ cup Kalamata olives, pitted
- 6 oz feta cheese, cut into thick slices or crumbled
- ¼ cup extra virgin olive oil
- 1 tablespoon red wine vinegar
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
How to Make Greek Salad
Step 1: Prepare the Vegetables
Start by washing all the fresh ingredients thoroughly. Tomatoes should be ripe yet firm, as they release their juices and enhance the dressing naturally. Cut them into wedges and place them in a large mixing bowl.
Next, slice the cucumber into half-moons—if the skin is thick or waxy, you can peel it, but leaving it on adds extra crunch and nutrients. Thinly slice the red onion for a mild yet tangy bite, and cut the green bell pepper into thin rings for a slight sweetness and crispness.
Step 2: Assemble the Salad
Add the sliced vegetables to the bowl, followed by Kalamata olives. These olives bring a briny, slightly fruity depth that is key to an authentic Greek salad. Do not substitute them with regular black olives, as the flavor profile is entirely different.
Step 3: Add the Feta Cheese
Greek salad traditionally includes a large slab of feta cheese placed on top, rather than crumbling it. This keeps the cheese intact, allowing each person to break off pieces as they eat. However, if you prefer, you can crumble the feta for easier mixing.
Step 4: Make the Dressing
In a small bowl, whisk together the extra virgin olive oil, red wine vinegar, dried oregano, salt, and black pepper. Drizzle this simple yet flavorful dressing over the salad. The key to a good Greek salad dressing is high-quality olive oil, as it brings out the best in all the ingredients.
Step 5: Toss and Serve
Gently toss everything together, ensuring that the flavors meld while keeping the feta in large chunks. Let the salad sit for 5-10 minutes before serving, allowing the vegetables to soak up the dressing. Serve immediately with warm pita bread or alongside grilled meats for a full Mediterranean meal.
Helpful Tips for the Best Greek Salad
- Use ripe but firm tomatoes – Overripe tomatoes can make the salad too watery.
- Choose authentic Greek feta – Feta made from sheep’s milk has a creamier texture and tangier flavor.
- Don’t skip the olives – Kalamata olives are essential for that signature Greek taste.
- Keep the dressing simple – The olive oil and oregano shine on their own, so avoid adding too many extra ingredients.
- Serve at room temperature – This allows the flavors to develop fully and enhances the salad’s natural taste.
Recipe Details
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 10 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Salad
- Method: No-cook
- Cuisine: Greek
- Diet: Vegetarian, Gluten-Free
Notes
- If you prefer a more intense flavor, let the salad sit for 20-30 minutes before serving. The juices from the tomatoes and cucumbers will mix with the dressing, creating a natural marinade.
- Feel free to customize the salad with additional toppings like capers, fresh basil, or roasted red peppers for a twist on the classic.
- If you’re making this ahead of time, add the dressing just before serving to prevent the vegetables from becoming soggy.
Nutritional Information (Per Serving)
- Calories: 210
- Protein: 6g
- Carbohydrates: 10g
- Fat: 18g
- Fiber: 2g
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make Greek salad ahead of time?
Yes! You can prep the vegetables and store them separately in an airtight container. However, don’t add the dressing or feta until just before serving to keep everything fresh and crisp.
What can I serve with Greek salad?
Greek salad pairs beautifully with grilled chicken, lamb, seafood, pita bread, hummus, or tzatziki sauce. It also works as a great topping for grain bowls or inside a wrap.
Can I use a different type of cheese?
Feta is the traditional choice, but you can substitute with goat cheese or ricotta salata if needed.
How do I make this vegan?
Simply omit the feta cheese or replace it with a dairy-free feta alternative.
Storage Instructions
- Refrigeration: Store leftover Greek salad in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. Keep in mind that the tomatoes will release liquid over time, so it’s best enjoyed fresh.
- Meal Prep Tip: If making ahead, store the dressing separately and add it just before serving to maintain the salad’s crispness.
Related Recipes
If you loved this Greek salad, you’ll also enjoy:
- Mediterranean Quinoa Salad
- Classic Chicken Salad
- Tzatziki Chicken Salad
- BBQ Chicken Salad with Creamy Avocado Dressing
Conclusion
This authentic Greek salad is a simple yet flavorful dish that brings the best of Mediterranean flavors to your table. Whether you’re making it for a quick lunch, a refreshing side, or a party dish, it’s guaranteed to impress with its fresh ingredients and bold taste.
