Name: Greek Salad on Roasted Garlic French Bread Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 30 min
Yield: 4
Cuisine: French
Ingredients: For Roasted Garlic French Bread:; 4 oz Idahoan® Roasted Garlic Flavored Mashed Potatoes; 1 lb butter; 1 French Bread loaf; For Greek Salad:; 1 cup cherry tomatoes; 1 cup cucumber; 1 medium red onion; 1 small green pepper; ¾ cup kalamata olives; 6 tbsp olive oil; 1½ tbsp lemon juice; 1 tbsp red wine vinegar; 2 garlic cloves; ¾ cup feta cheese; For Tzatziki Sauce:; 2 cups plain greek yogurt; 1 cup cucumber; 2 tbsp lemon juice; 2 garlic cloves; 2 tbsp fresh dill; salt and pepper

Combining the classic flavors of a Greek salad with the richness of roasted garlic French bread creates a delightful fusion dish. Perfect for a light lunch or a satisfying appetizer, this recipe promises a burst of Mediterranean flavors in every bite.

Photos of Greek Salad on Roasted Garlic French Bread Recipe

For those unfamiliar with some ingredients, you may need to look for kalamata olives and Idahoan roasted garlic mashed potatoes at your supermarket. Kalamata olives are often found in the international or specialty foods aisle, while Idahoan roasted garlic mashed potatoes are typically located in the instant potatoes section.

Ingredients For Greek Salad On Roasted Garlic French Bread

Idahoan roasted garlic flavored mashed potatoes: Instant mashed potatoes with a roasted garlic flavor.

Butter: Adds richness and helps create the garlic spread.

French bread: A long loaf of French bread, perfect for toasting.

Cherry tomatoes: Small, sweet tomatoes that add a burst of flavor.

Cucumber: Adds a refreshing crunch to the salad.

Red onion: Provides a sharp, tangy flavor.

Green pepper: Adds color and a mild, sweet taste.

Kalamata olives: Greek olives with a rich, fruity flavor.

Olive oil: Used to dress the salad and add Mediterranean flavor.

Lemon juice: Adds acidity and brightness to the salad and tzatziki sauce.

Red wine vinegar: Provides a tangy depth to the salad dressing.

Garlic cloves: Used in both the salad and tzatziki sauce for a robust flavor.

Feta cheese: Crumbly Greek cheese that adds a salty, tangy edge.

Plain Greek yogurt: The base for the creamy tzatziki sauce.

Fresh dill: Adds a fresh, herbal note to the tzatziki sauce.

Salt and pepper: Essential seasonings to enhance the flavors.

One reader, Crichton Justice says:

This Greek salad on roasted garlic French bread is a delightful fusion! The crunchy bread pairs perfectly with the fresh, tangy salad. The roasted garlic adds a wonderful depth of flavor. Topped with feta and served with tzatziki, it's a refreshing and satisfying dish. Highly recommend!

Crichton Justice

Techniques Required for Making Greek Salad on Roasted Garlic French Bread

How to drain onions: Place sliced onions in a bowl of ice water for about 10 minutes, then drain and pat dry with paper towels. How to toast bread under a broiler: Place the bread on a baking sheet and position it under the broiler. Watch closely and toast until the top is golden brown and the butter mixture is melted. How to make tzatziki sauce: Combine Greek yogurt, cucumber, lemon juice, garlic, and dill in a medium bowl. Stir until well combined, then season with salt and pepper to taste.

How To Make Greek Salad on Roasted Garlic French Bread

The fresh flavors of cucumbers, tomatoes, olives and feta in this Greek salad pair perfectly with the mashed potato and garlic-topped French bread.

Preparation: 15 minutes

Cooking: 15 minutes

Total: 30 minutes

Serves:

Ingredients

For Roasted Garlic French Bread:

4ozIdahoan® Roasted Garlic Flavored Mashed Potatoes,(1 package)
1lbbutter,softened
1french bread loaf

For Greek Salad:

1cupcherry tomatoes,cut in half
1cupcucumber,peeled, sliced into ¼-inch thickness, cut into quarters
1medium red onion,chopped into thin slices, *
1small green pepper,coarse chopped
¾cupkalamata olives,pitted, sliced
6tbspolive oil
1½tbsplemon juice,fresh
1tbspred wine vinegar
2garlic cloves,minced
¾cupfeta cheese,crumbled for topping

For Tzatziki Sauce:

2cupsplain Greek yogurt
1cupcucumber,diced small
2tbsplemon juice,fresh
2garlic cloves,minced
2tbspfresh dill,finely chopped
salt and pepper,to taste

Instructions

Mix the dry package of Idahoan Roasted Garlic Potatoes with the butter until blended.
Slice the French bread length wise and generously spread with the roasted garlic mixture.
Toast under the broiler until butter spread is melted and toasted on top.
Drain the onion from the ice water and pat dry with paper towels.

Tzatziki Sauce:

In a medium bowl, combine Greek yogurt, cucumber, lemon juice, garlic, and dill. Stir until well combined. Taste and season with salt and pepper.

To Assemble:

In a large bowl, combine the tomatoes, cucumber, onion, green pepper, olives, olive oil, lemon juice, vinegar, and garlic.
Top the French bread with the Greek salad, then sprinkle cheese over top.
Serve with Tzatziki sauce, and enjoy!

Recipe Notes

*Soaked 10 minutes in small bowl of ice water to reduce sharpness.

Nutrition

Calories: 1492.91kcal
Fat: 131.46g
Saturated Fat: 71.01g
Trans Fat: 3.75g
Monounsaturated Fat: 42.41g
Polyunsaturated Fat: 7.10g
Carbohydrates: 60.71g
Fiber: 4.95g
Sugar: 13.58g
Protein: 25.83g
Cholesterol: 287.99mg
Sodium: 1391.12mg
Calcium: 364.39mg
Potassium: 521.48mg
Iron: 4.83mg
Vitamin A: 853.89µg
Vitamin C: 30.94mg

Helpful Technique for Assembling Greek Salad on Garlic Bread

When preparing the tzatziki sauce, make sure to grate the cucumber and then squeeze out as much excess water as possible using a clean kitchen towel or cheesecloth. This step ensures that the sauce remains thick and creamy rather than watery.

Time-Saving Tips for Preparing This Greek Salad Recipe

Prepare ingredients in advance: Chop vegetables and make the tzatziki sauce ahead of time to streamline assembly.

Use pre-made components: Opt for store-bought roasted garlic mashed potatoes to save time on preparation.

Efficient bread toasting: Toast the french bread while you mix the salad ingredients to multitask effectively.

Batch processing: Double the recipe and store extra salad and tzatziki sauce for future meals.

Quick cleanup: Use parchment paper on your baking sheet to minimize mess and speed up cleaning.

Substitute Ingredients For Greek Salad on Roasted Garlic French Bread Recipe

Idahoan® roasted garlic flavored mashed potatoes - Substitute with homemade roasted garlic mashed potatoes: You can make your own mashed potatoes with roasted garlic for a more natural and customizable flavor.
Butter - Substitute with olive oil: Olive oil provides a healthier fat option and adds a Mediterranean touch to the dish.
French bread loaf - Substitute with whole grain baguette: Whole grain baguette offers more fiber and nutrients while maintaining a similar texture.
Cherry tomatoes - Substitute with grape tomatoes: Grape tomatoes have a similar sweetness and texture, making them an excellent alternative.
Cucumber - Substitute with zucchini: Zucchini has a similar crunch and can be used raw in salads.
Red onion - Substitute with shallots: Shallots have a milder flavor and can be a good alternative if you prefer a less pungent taste.
Green pepper - Substitute with red bell pepper: Red bell peppers are sweeter and add a vibrant color to the salad.
Kalamata olives - Substitute with black olives: Black olives have a milder flavor and can be used if kalamata olives are not available.
Olive oil - Substitute with avocado oil: Avocado oil has a similar healthy fat profile and a neutral flavor.
Lemon juice - Substitute with lime juice: Lime juice provides a similar acidity and freshness to the dish.
Red wine vinegar - Substitute with apple cider vinegar: Apple cider vinegar has a similar tangy flavor and can be used in place of red wine vinegar.
Garlic cloves - Substitute with garlic powder: Garlic powder can be used in a pinch, though fresh garlic is preferred for better flavor.
Feta cheese - Substitute with goat cheese: Goat cheese has a similar tangy and creamy texture, making it a good alternative.
Plain Greek yogurt - Substitute with plain regular yogurt: Regular yogurt can be used if Greek yogurt is not available, though it may be less thick.
Fresh dill - Substitute with dried dill: Dried dill can be used if fresh dill is not available, though you may need to use less as it is more concentrated.
Salt and pepper - Substitute with herb seasoning blend: A herb seasoning blend can add more complexity and flavor to the dish.

Presenting Greek Salad on Garlic French Bread

Serve smaller portion sizes: Cut the french bread into smaller, elegant slices to create bite-sized portions. This allows for a more refined presentation and easier consumption.
Use decoration: Garnish the plate with a few sprigs of fresh dill and a drizzle of olive oil around the edges to add a touch of sophistication and color contrast.
Layer the ingredients: Instead of mixing the Greek salad together, layer the cherry tomatoes, cucumber, red onion, green pepper, and kalamata olives artfully on top of the roasted garlic French bread. This creates a visually appealing stack that showcases each ingredient.
Use a ring mold: For the tzatziki sauce, use a ring mold to create a neat, circular dollop on the plate. This adds a professional touch and keeps the sauce contained for a cleaner presentation.
Sprinkle cheese strategically: Crumble the feta cheese over the top of the Greek salad in a deliberate, sparse manner. This ensures that the cheese is evenly distributed and adds a pop of white color.
Add microgreens: Top the dish with a small handful of microgreens for an extra layer of texture and a burst of freshness. This also adds height to the presentation.
Use a contrasting plate: Serve the dish on a dark-colored plate to make the vibrant colors of the Greek salad and tzatziki sauce stand out. This enhances the visual appeal and draws attention to the dish.
Drizzle with dressing: Finish with a light drizzle of the olive oil, lemon juice, and red wine vinegar dressing over the entire dish to add shine and a final layer of flavor.

Essential Tools for Making a Delicious Greek Salad

Mixing bowl: Use this to combine the Greek yogurt, cucumber, lemon juice, garlic, and dill for the tzatziki sauce.
Spatula: This will help you mix the Idahoan roasted garlic potatoes with the butter until blended.
Bread knife: Slice the French bread loaf lengthwise with this tool.
Broiler: Toast the French bread under this to melt the butter spread and achieve a toasted top.
Paper towels: Pat dry the onion after draining it from the ice water.
Large bowl: Combine the tomatoes, cucumber, onion, green pepper, olives, olive oil, lemon juice, vinegar, and garlic in this bowl.
Cutting board: Use this surface to chop the cherry tomatoes, cucumber, red onion, and green pepper.
Chef's knife: This knife will be essential for chopping the vegetables for the Greek salad.
Measuring cups: Measure out the ingredients like cherry tomatoes, cucumber, and Greek yogurt accurately with these.
Measuring spoons: Use these to measure out the lemon juice, red wine vinegar, and other small quantities of ingredients.
Garlic press: This will help you mince the garlic cloves for both the Greek salad and the tzatziki sauce.
Serving platter: Present the assembled Greek salad on roasted garlic French bread on this platter.
Grater: Grate the cucumber for the tzatziki sauce using this tool.

Interesting Trivia About Greek Salad on Roasted Garlic French Bread

A fun fact about this recipe is that the tzatziki sauce is a traditional Greek condiment often served with gyros or as a dip. It adds a refreshing and tangy flavor that complements the Greek salad perfectly.

Is Making Greek Salad on Roasted Garlic French Bread Cost-Effective?

This Greek salad on roasted garlic French bread is quite cost-effective. The main ingredients like cherry tomatoes, cucumber, red onion, and French bread are affordable and easily accessible. Specialty items like feta cheese and kalamata olives add a touch of luxury but are used in small quantities. The tzatziki sauce made from Greek yogurt and fresh dill is also budget-friendly. Overall Verdict: 8/10. Approximate cost for a household of 4 people: $15-$20 USD.

Is This Greek Salad Recipe Healthy?

The Greek salad on roasted garlic French bread recipe has both healthy and unhealthy aspects. On the positive side, the Greek salad itself is packed with nutritious ingredients like fresh vegetables (tomatoes, cucumber, onion, and green pepper), heart-healthy olive oil, and feta cheese, which provides calcium and protein. The tzatziki sauce, made with Greek yogurt, cucumber, and herbs, is also a healthy addition.

However, the roasted garlic French bread may be a cause for concern. The recipe calls for a significant amount of butter (1 lb) mixed with the roasted garlic mashed potatoes, which can greatly increase the saturated fat and calorie content of the dish. Consuming excessive amounts of saturated fat can contribute to heart disease and other health issues.

To make this recipe healthier, consider the following suggestions:

Reduce the amount of butter used in the roasted garlic spread or replace it with a healthier alternative like olive oil or mashed avocado
Use whole grain French bread instead of white bread to increase the fiber content
Add more vegetables to the Greek salad, such as bell peppers, to boost the nutrient density
Reduce the amount of feta cheese used or opt for a lower-fat variety
Serve the tzatziki sauce on the side, allowing individuals to control their portion size

By making these adjustments, you can enjoy the delicious flavors of this Greek salad on roasted garlic French bread while also making it a more balanced and nutritious meal.

Editor's Opinion on This Delightful Greek Salad Dish

This recipe offers a delightful fusion of flavors and textures. The roasted garlic French bread provides a savory, crispy base that complements the fresh, vibrant Greek salad. The tzatziki sauce adds a creamy, tangy element, enhancing the overall dish. The use of Idahoan roasted garlic mashed potatoes as a spread is innovative, adding depth to the bread. However, consider reducing the butter for a lighter option. The combination of fresh vegetables, feta cheese, and olives creates a refreshing contrast to the rich bread. Overall, it's a balanced and flavorful dish perfect for a light lunch or appetizer.

Enhance Your Greek Salad on Roasted Garlic French Bread Recipe with These Unique Side Dishes:

Grilled Lemon Herb Chicken Skewers: Complement your Greek Salad on Roasted Garlic French Bread with these succulent skewers. The chicken is marinated in a zesty blend of lemon juice, olive oil, and fresh herbs, then grilled to perfection. The smoky flavor and citrusy notes will elevate your meal to a whole new level.

Mediterranean Quinoa Salad: Add a burst of color and texture with this vibrant quinoa salad. It's packed with cherry tomatoes, cucumbers, red onions, and kalamata olives, all tossed in a tangy lemon vinaigrette. The nutty flavor of quinoa pairs beautifully with the Greek Salad.

Roasted Red Pepper Hummus: Dive into the creamy goodness of this hummus infused with roasted red peppers. Serve it with warm pita bread or crunchy vegetable sticks for a delightful contrast to the Greek Salad on Roasted Garlic French Bread. The smoky, sweet flavor of the red peppers adds an extra layer of deliciousness.

Stuffed Grape Leaves: These grape leaves are filled with a savory mixture of rice, pine nuts, and fresh herbs. The tender leaves and aromatic filling provide a perfect balance to the crisp and refreshing Greek Salad. A traditional Mediterranean delight that will impress your guests.

Baklava: End your meal on a sweet note with this classic Greek dessert. Layers of flaky phyllo dough, chopped nuts, and a drizzle of honey syrup create a symphony of textures and flavors. The rich, sweet taste of baklava is the perfect finale to your Greek Salad on Roasted Garlic French Bread feast.

Similar Recipes to Try If You Love Greek Salad

Mediterranean Stuffed Bell Peppers: Imagine vibrant bell peppers brimming with a delightful mix of quinoa, cherry tomatoes, cucumbers, kalamata olives, and feta cheese. Drizzle with a tangy lemon vinaigrette and bake until tender. Serve with a dollop of tzatziki sauce for a refreshing finish.

Greek Chicken Gyros: Juicy chicken breast marinated in a blend of olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, and oregano. Grill to perfection and serve in warm pita bread with tomatoes, red onions, cucumbers, and a generous spoonful of tzatziki sauce.

Spanakopita: A classic Greek pie made with layers of crispy phyllo dough filled with a savory mixture of spinach, feta cheese, onions, and dill. Bake until golden brown and serve warm or at room temperature.

Greek Orzo Salad: A refreshing pasta salad featuring orzo mixed with cucumbers, cherry tomatoes, red onions, kalamata olives, and feta cheese. Toss with a zesty lemon-oregano dressing and serve chilled.

Lamb Souvlaki: Tender lamb cubes marinated in a blend of olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, and oregano. Skewer and grill to perfection, then serve with pita bread, tomatoes, red onions, and a side of tzatziki sauce.

Appetizers and Desserts That Complement Greek Salad on Garlic Bread

Appetizers:

Stuffed Mini Bell Peppers: Stuffed Mini Bell Peppers are a delightful way to start any meal. These vibrant mini bell peppers are filled with a creamy goat cheese mixture, enhanced with fresh herbs like thyme and rosemary. The filling is then topped with a sprinkle of panko breadcrumbs for added crunch. Roasting the peppers brings out their natural sweetness, making each bite a perfect balance of flavors and textures. Serve these colorful bites warm or at room temperature for a crowd-pleasing appetizer.

Caprese Skewers: Caprese Skewers offer a fresh and elegant start to your meal. These skewers feature juicy cherry tomatoes, creamy mozzarella balls, and fragrant basil leaves. Drizzle with a rich balsamic glaze and a touch of extra virgin olive oil to elevate the flavors. The combination of the sweet tomatoes, creamy cheese, and aromatic basil creates a harmonious bite that is both refreshing and satisfying. These skewers are perfect for any occasion, from casual gatherings to sophisticated dinners.

Desserts:

Baklava Cheesecake: Baklava Cheesecake is a delightful fusion of two beloved desserts. Imagine a creamy, rich cheesecake base layered with the nutty, honey-soaked goodness of baklava. The crust is made from phyllo dough, giving it that signature flaky texture. The filling combines cream cheese, sugar, and a hint of vanilla, while the topping is a mixture of chopped nuts, cinnamon, and honey. Drizzle extra honey over the top before serving for an added touch of sweetness. This dessert is perfect for those who love the flavors of the Mediterranean but crave the decadence of a classic cheesecake.

Greek Yogurt Panna Cotta: Greek Yogurt Panna Cotta is a sophisticated yet simple dessert that combines the creamy texture of panna cotta with the tangy flavor of Greek yogurt. The base is made with gelatin, cream, and sugar, which is then mixed with Greek yogurt to create a smooth, velvety texture. Serve it with a drizzle of honey and a sprinkle of fresh berries or nuts for a refreshing and elegant finish. This dessert is not only delicious but also a lighter option, making it a perfect end to a rich meal.

Why trust this Greek Salad on Roasted Garlic French Bread Recipe:

This recipe combines the rich flavors of roasted garlic with the fresh, vibrant ingredients of a Greek salad. The French bread provides a perfect crunchy base, while the tzatziki sauce adds a creamy, tangy finish. Using Idahoan roasted garlic mashed potatoes ensures a consistent and delicious garlic spread every time. The combination of feta cheese and kalamata olives brings an authentic Mediterranean taste that will impress any guest. Trust this recipe for its balance of textures and flavors, making it a standout dish for any occasion.

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FAQ:

How do I make the roasted garlic mixture for the French bread?

Mix the dry package of Idahoan roasted garlic potatoes with the butter until blended. Then, slice the French bread lengthwise and generously spread the mixture on top. Toast it under the broiler until the butter spread is melted and toasted.

Can I use a different type of bread instead of French bread?

Sure, you can use any type of crusty bread you like. Just make sure it's sturdy enough to hold the toppings and can be toasted well.

How do I make the tzatziki sauce?

In a medium bowl, combine Greek yogurt, cucumber, lemon juice, garlic, and dill. Stir until well combined, then taste and season with salt and pepper.

Do I need to drain the onion for the Greek salad?

Yes, drain the onion from the ice water and pat it dry with paper towels before adding it to the salad. This helps to mellow out the onion's sharpness.

Can I prepare any parts of this recipe in advance?

Absolutely! You can make the tzatziki sauce and the Greek salad ahead of time. Just store them in the fridge until you're ready to assemble the dish. The roasted garlic mixture can also be prepared in advance and stored in the fridge.