Name: Quick and Easy Greek Salad Recipe
Prep time: 20 min
Total time: 20 min
Yield: 5
Cuisine: European
Ingredients: For Greek Salad Dressing:; 6 tbsp olive oil; 1½ tbsp Fresh Lemon Juice; 1 tbsp red wine vinegar; 1½ tsp garlic; 1½ tbsp Fresh Parsley; 1 tsp oregano; ¾ tsp honey; salt; For Salad:; 10 oz Roma tomatoes; 1 medium English cucumber; ½ small red onion; 1 small green or yellow bell pepper; ¾ cup kalamata olives; 4 oz feta cheese; 1 medium avocado

Looking for a fresh, vibrant side dish that's loaded with flavor yet quick and easy to prep? Look no further than this Greek Salad recipe. Bursting with a medley of colorful vegetables, tangy kalamata olives, and creamy feta cheese, all tossed in a homemade dressing that's simply irresistible. This salad is perfect for any meal, any season.

Photos of Quick and Easy Greek Salad Recipe

The main ingredients for this recipe are commonly found in many households. However, kalamata olives, which are a type of Greek black olive, may not be readily available in your pantry. They are often found in the international or olive section at the supermarket. These olives have a unique flavor that is a key element to this salad. If you don't have fresh parsley or oregano, you can substitute dried herbs, but fresh will give you the best flavor.

Ingredients for Quick and Easy Greek Salad

Olive oil: This healthy fat is used to create a smooth and flavorful dressing.

Lemon juice: Adds a tangy freshness to the dressing.

Red wine vinegar: Gives the dressing a bit of bite and balances the oil.

Garlic: Essential for any dressing, it adds a robust flavor.

Parsley: A fresh herb that adds a pop of greenery and flavor.

Oregano: Another herb that complements the Greek flavor profile.

Honey: Adds just a touch of sweetness to balance the acidity in the dressing.

Roma tomatoes: These tomatoes are juicy and flavorful, perfect for a salad.

Cucumber: Adds a refreshing crunch to the salad.

Red onion: Brings a mild, sweet, and slightly spicy flavor.

Bell pepper: Adds a sweet crunch and beautiful color to the salad.

Kalamata olives: These Greek olives bring a unique, tangy, and salty flavor.

Feta cheese: This Greek cheese adds creaminess and a salty tang.

Avocado: Brings a creamy texture and healthy fats to the salad.

One reader, Agustin Barnhill says:

This quick and easy Greek salad recipe is a game-changer! The dressing is so flavorful, and the combination of fresh veggies and feta cheese is simply divine. It's become my go-to dish for potlucks and family gatherings. So simple, yet so delicious!

Agustin Barnhill

Key Techniques for Making Greek Salad

How to make Greek salad dressing: Whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, red wine vinegar, garlic, parsley, oregano, honey, and salt in a small mixing bowl. Refrigerate until ready to use.

How to prepare the salad: Combine tomatoes, cucumber, onion, bell pepper, olives, avocado, and feta in a salad bowl.

How to dress the salad: Drizzle the prepared Greek salad dressing over the salad ingredients and gently toss to coat evenly. Add the dressing just before serving for the best results.

How To Make Quick and Easy Greek Salad

To make this super easy Greek salad, tomatoes, cucumbers, avocadoes, feta, & olives are tossed with a dressing of lemon, honey, and various herbs.

Preparation: 20 minutes

Cooking:

Total: 20 minutes

Serves:

Ingredients

For Greek Salad Dressing:

6tbspolive oil
1½tbspfresh lemon juice
1tbspred wine vinegar
1½tspgarlic,(1 large clove), minced
1½tbspfresh parsley,finely minced
1tsporegano,dried
¾tsphoney
Salt,to taste

For Salad:

10ozRoma tomatoes,diced
1mediumenglish cucumber,optionally peeled and sliced into half moons
½smallred onion,thinly sliced or diced, rinsed and drained
1smallgreen or yellow bell pepper,seeds and ribs removed, chopped
¾cupkalamata olives,or black olives, drained and sliced
4ozfeta cheese,(about 1 cup), crumbled
1mediumavocado,(not too soft), diced

Instructions

Add all of the dressing ingredients to a small mixing bowl and whisk well to blend, season with salt to taste and store in refrigerator until ready to use.
Add tomatoes, cucumber, onion, bell pepper, olives, avocado and feta to a salad bowl.
Drizzle dressing over top and gently toss to evenly coat. Add dressing within a few minutes of serving for best results.

Nutrition

Calories: 327.82kcal
Fat: 29.36g
Saturated Fat: 6.82g
Monounsaturated Fat: 18.42g
Polyunsaturated Fat: 2.82g
Carbohydrates: 14.26g
Fiber: 4.87g
Sugar: 4.79g
Protein: 5.58g
Cholesterol: 20.18mg
Sodium: 602.14mg
Calcium: 160.54mg
Potassium: 523.51mg
Iron: 1.78mg
Vitamin A: 70.10µg
Vitamin C: 85.67mg

Pro Tip for Elevating Your Greek Salad

When preparing your Greek salad, it's important to cut your vegetables into bite-sized pieces. This not only makes the salad easier to eat, but it also allows the flavors of the dressing to better permeate the vegetables. Additionally, when making the dressing, whisk the ingredients together until they emulsify, or blend together, to create a smooth and flavorful dressing. Lastly, remember to add the dressing just before serving to prevent the salad from becoming soggy.

Time-Saving Tips for Quick and Easy Greek Salad

Plan ahead: Prep your ingredients and dressing in advance to streamline the salad-making process.

Use pre-cut veggies: Save time by purchasing pre-cut vegetables, such as pre-diced onions or pre-sliced bell peppers, to cut down on prep work.

Multi-task: While the dressing chills in the fridge, chop the vegetables to make the most of your time in the kitchen.

Invest in a good knife: A sharp, quality knife can make chopping and slicing vegetables quicker and more efficient.

Organize your workspace: Keep your kitchen tidy and organized to minimize time spent searching for utensils and ingredients.

Substitute Ingredients For Quick and Easy Greek Salad Recipe

olive oil - Substitute with avocado oil: Avocado oil has a similar mild flavor and high smoke point, making it a suitable alternative for olive oil in the dressing.
red wine vinegar - Substitute with balsamic vinegar: Balsamic vinegar can add a slightly sweeter and more complex flavor to the dressing, complementing the other ingredients in the salad.
english cucumber - Substitute with regular cucumber: Regular cucumbers can be used as a substitute for English cucumbers, providing a similar crisp texture and mild flavor to the salad.
kalamata olives - Substitute with black olives: Black olives can be used as a substitute for kalamata olives, offering a milder flavor and similar texture in the salad.
feta cheese - Substitute with goat cheese: Goat cheese can be used as a substitute for feta, providing a tangy and creamy flavor to the salad.
avocado - Substitute with cucumber: Cucumber can add a refreshing crunch and mild flavor to the salad, replacing the creaminess of avocado.

Presentation Tips for a Stunning Greek Salad

Elevate the ingredients: Use only the freshest and highest quality produce and cheese to ensure the flavors shine through.
Create a stunning visual: Arrange the vibrant tomatoes, crisp cucumbers, and bold olives in an artful display, showcasing the beauty of each ingredient.
Perfect the dressing drizzle: Carefully drizzle the homemade dressing over the salad, ensuring each leaf and vegetable is lightly coated for a burst of flavor in every bite.
Emphasize the feta: Crumble the feta cheese over the top, allowing its creamy texture and tangy flavor to stand out against the colorful backdrop of the salad.
Highlight the avocado: Slice the avocado and strategically place it on the salad, adding a creamy and luxurious element to the dish.
Garnish with fresh herbs: Sprinkle freshly chopped parsley and oregano over the salad for a pop of color and a hint of aromatic freshness.

Essential Kitchen Tools for Making Greek Salad

Whisk: A utensil used for whipping and mixing ingredients, typically consisting of a handle with loops or wires.
Cutting board: A durable board on which to place material for cutting.
Knife: A tool with a sharp blade used for cutting or slicing food.
Salad bowl: A large bowl used for mixing and serving salads.
Measuring cups and spoons: Utensils used to measure exact amounts of ingredients for recipes.
Vegetable peeler: A tool used to remove the outer skin or peel of vegetables.
Salad spinner: A kitchen tool used to wash and remove excess water from salad greens.
Cheese grater: A kitchen tool designed to grate cheese into fine pieces.
Lemon squeezer: A tool used to extract juice from lemons or other citrus fruits.
Avocado slicer: A tool designed to cut, pit, and slice avocados with ease.

Interesting Trivia About Greek Salad

Greek salad is a popular dish in Greece and is often served as an appetizer. It is traditionally made with fresh and healthy ingredients such as tomatoes, cucumbers, olives, and feta cheese. The salad is typically dressed with olive oil, lemon juice, and herbs, making it a refreshing and flavorful dish. The combination of fresh vegetables and tangy feta cheese makes it a delicious and nutritious option for a quick and easy meal.

Budget-Friendly Greek Salad for Home Cooking

The Greek salad recipe is highly cost-effective for a household. The key ingredients like olive oil, tomatoes, cucumbers, and feta cheese are reasonably priced and widely available. The use of fresh and simple ingredients makes it an affordable option for a family. The approximate cost for a household of 4 people would be around $15-$20. The overall verdict for this recipe is 9/10, considering its affordability, nutritional value, and delicious taste.

Is This Greek Salad Recipe Healthy?

The Greek salad recipe is generally a healthy choice, thanks to its abundance of fresh vegetables and heart-healthy olive oil. The tomatoes, cucumber, onion, and bell pepper provide a variety of vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants. The kalamata olives and feta cheese add a source of healthy fats, while the avocado contributes monounsaturated fats and fiber. The dressing, made with olive oil, lemon juice, and herbs, is a nutritious alternative to processed, store-bought dressings.

However, there are a few aspects of the recipe that could be adjusted to make it even healthier:

Reduce the amount of feta cheese to lower the overall saturated fat content
Use a reduced-fat feta cheese option
Increase the proportion of vegetables to cheese and olives
Add a lean protein source, such as grilled chicken or chickpeas, to make the salad more balanced and filling
Use a whole grain, such as quinoa or bulgur, to add fiber and complex carbohydrates
Experiment with different herbs and spices in the dressing to reduce the need for added salt

By making these simple adjustments, you can enhance the nutritional value of this already healthy Greek salad recipe, making it an even more well-rounded and satisfying meal option.

Editor's Opinion on This Greek Salad Recipe

This quick and easy Greek salad recipe is a delightful combination of fresh and vibrant flavors. The dressing, with its blend of olive oil, lemon juice, and herbs, adds a zesty and aromatic touch to the crisp vegetables and creamy feta. The addition of avocado brings a creamy texture, while the kalamata olives provide a briny and savory element. Overall, this salad is a perfect balance of flavors and textures, making it a refreshing and satisfying dish for any occasion.

Enhance Your Quick and Easy Greek Salad Recipe with These Unique Side Dishes:

Grilled Lemon Garlic Shrimp: Marinate the shrimp in a mixture of lemon juice, garlic, and olive oil before grilling to perfection.

Mediterranean Quinoa Salad: Combine quinoa with diced cucumbers, tomatoes, and olives, then toss with a lemon vinaigrette for a refreshing side dish.

Honey Balsamic Roasted Vegetables: Toss a variety of colorful vegetables in a sweet and tangy honey balsamic glaze before roasting until caramelized and tender.

Similar Recipes to Try If You Love Greek Salad

Mediterranean Stuffed Peppers: Use a mixture of ground lamb, rice, tomatoes, and spices to stuff bell peppers, then bake until tender and delicious.

Citrus Grilled Chicken Salad: Marinate chicken in a zesty citrus marinade, then grill and serve over a bed of mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and avocado for a refreshing and satisfying salad.

Fruit Salsa with Cinnamon Chips: Combine diced fruits like strawberries, kiwi, and mango with a splash of lime juice to create a vibrant and flavorful salsa, perfect for dipping with homemade cinnamon tortilla chips.

Appetizers and Desserts to Complement Greek Salad

Appetizers:

Stuffed Mushrooms: Savory mushrooms stuffed with a flavorful mixture of cream cheese, garlic, and herbs, then baked to perfection. These bite-sized delights are sure to impress your guests at any gathering.

Bruschetta: Crispy baguette slices topped with a vibrant mixture of ripe tomatoes, fresh basil, garlic, and balsamic glaze. This classic Italian appetizer is a refreshing and delicious way to start any meal.

Desserts:

Chocolate Mousse: Indulge in a rich and creamy chocolate mousse, topped with a dollop of whipped cream and a sprinkle of cocoa powder. The perfect way to satisfy your sweet tooth!

Strawberry Cheesecake: Delight in a velvety smooth strawberry cheesecake, with a buttery graham cracker crust and a luscious strawberry topping. A classic dessert that never fails to impress.

Why trust this Quick and Easy Greek Salad Recipe:

This recipe guarantees a taste of authentic Greek cuisine, using traditional ingredients like fresh lemon juice, olive oil, and feta cheese. The combination of tomatoes, cucumbers, and kalamata olives ensures a burst of Mediterranean flavors. The meticulous attention to detail in the dressing and the use of fresh ingredients underscore the recipe's reliability. Trust in the harmonious blend of flavors and the simplicity of preparation, making it a go-to choice for a quick and satisfying Greek salad.

Have a question or comment about this Quick and Easy Greek Salad Recipe? Head over to the Recipe Sharing section of our forum to join the discussion!

FAQ:

What type of olives should I use for the Greek salad?

You should use kalamata olives for the Greek salad. They have a rich, fruity flavor and are a staple in Greek cuisine.

Can I make the Greek salad dressing ahead of time?

Yes, you can make the dressing ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator. Just give it a good shake or whisk before using it on the salad.

Can I omit the feta cheese to make the salad vegan?

Absolutely! If you want to make the salad vegan, you can omit the feta cheese or use a vegan alternative. The salad will still be delicious and full of flavor.

Can I use dried herbs instead of fresh ones for the dressing?

While fresh herbs are preferred for the dressing, you can use dried herbs if that's what you have on hand. Just remember to adjust the quantities, as dried herbs are more potent than fresh ones.

How long can I store the leftover Greek salad?

The leftover Greek salad can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. However, it's best enjoyed fresh, so try to consume it within a day for the best flavor and texture.