Easy Greek Salad Recipe

Introduction

Fresh, vibrant, and bursting with classic Mediterranean flavors, this easy Greek salad is perfect for a quick lunch or a colorful side dish. It combines crisp vegetables, tangy feta, and a simple homemade dressing that brings everything together beautifully.

Ingredients

• ¼ cup red wine vinegar
• 1 tsp dried oregano leaves
• 2 garlic cloves (minced or grated)
• ¾ tsp fine sea salt
• ½ tsp freshly ground black pepper
• ½ cup extra-virgin olive oil
• 2 cups cherry tomatoes (halved) or 1 pound garden tomatoes (chopped)
• 1 English cucumber or 4 garden cucumbers (sliced into ½ inch-thick half-moons)
• 1 bell pepper (any color, stemmed and seeded)
• 6 oz feta cheese (diced from a block or crumbled, about 1 cup)
• ½ cup pitted kalamata olives (halved or roughly chopped)
• ¼ cup thinly sliced red onion

Instructions

1. Step 1: Make the dressing by combining red wine vinegar, dried oregano, minced garlic, salt, and black pepper in a medium bowl or resealable jar. Whisk or shake well while slowly adding extra-virgin olive oil until fully emulsified. Set aside.
2. Step 2: In a large serving bowl, combine the prepared cherry tomatoes, cucumber slices, bell pepper, feta cheese, kalamata olives, and red onion.
3. Step 3: Just before serving, drizzle the dressing over the salad and toss gently to coat all ingredients evenly. Enjoy within 2-3 hours for best freshness and flavor.

Tips & Variations

• For extra crunch, add some sliced radishes or crisp lettuce leaves.
• Use fresh oregano instead of dried for a brighter taste.
• Swap kalamata olives with green olives for a different flavor profile.
• To make it vegan, omit the feta cheese or replace it with a plant-based cheese alternative.

Storage

Store the salad and dressing separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Once dressed, the salad is best enjoyed within 2-3 hours as the vegetables release moisture and soften. To reheat or refresh, give a gentle stir and add a splash of fresh olive oil.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I prepare this salad ahead of time?

Yes, you can chop the vegetables and prepare the dressing a few hours in advance, but it’s best to combine and dress the salad shortly before serving to keep it crisp.

What can I serve with this Greek salad?

This salad pairs wonderfully with grilled meats, pita bread, or as part of a Mediterranean mezze platter for a light and healthy meal.