If you’re seeking a light option for warm summer days, this fresh simple Greek salad, also known as Horiatiki in Greek, with feta cheese, olives, and various vegetables is precisely the recipe you’re after!
The best part? You can have this delectable dish prepared in less than fifteen minutes. Simply chop up the ingredients, give them a toss with the dressing, and voilà! Your very own summer salad is ready to be relished.
What truly sets this salad apart is its remarkable versatility. It’s a marvelous option for breakfast, a satisfying choice for lunch, and a flavorful delight for dinner—truly fitting for any time of day.
How to prepare a fresh Greek salad?
Just like with other salads, you’ll only need a handful of ingredients.
Naturally, fresh vegetables are a must:
- Cucumber: An essential element of this Horiatiki salad, the cucumber takes its place as a refreshing and crunchy foundation. The delightful aspect is that there’s no need to peel it; a good rinse under running water suffices. Its verdant hue and crisp texture meld seamlessly with the other ingredients, contributing a clean and invigorating note to every bite.
- Tomatoes: Now, let’s talk about tomatoes – the heart and soul of this vibrant dish. The choice between the traditional and the charming cherry tomatoes lends a spectrum of possibilities. The classic tomatoes bring a succulent juiciness and a subtle sweetness that harmonizes with the other components. On the other hand, the cherry tomatoes, especially when in various colors, not only add visual allure but also a burst of playful flavors that elevate the entire ensemble.
- Bell Pepper: Enter the green bell pepper, a verdant gem that adds a hint of tangy zest to the mix. Its vibrant color and crispy texture coalesce with the other ingredients, imbuing the salad with a delightful balance of flavors and textures.
- Olives: For an authentic fresh Greek salad, kalamata olives are a must. They truly are exquisite. If you haven’t had the pleasure yet, be sure to give them a try!
Which cheese is best for a Horiatiki salad?
And don’t miss out on the wonderful feta cheese – it’s like a magic touch that gives the salad its special taste. Go for the Greek feta, if you can. It’s the real deal that brings in that authentic flavor.
Greek feta cheese is something truly special. Its crumbly texture and tangy taste make the salad come alive. The creamy goodness of this cheese works like a charm in all kinds of dishes.
Choosing the right feta can really make your salad shine. Greek feta, with its unique way of being made, stands out from the rest. Its flavor is one-of-a-kind, a delicious journey you’ll want to take.
Not only does Greek feta fit perfectly in the fresh simple Greek salad, but it’s also a match made in heaven for loads of other summer salads. The mix of the salty feta with fresh veggies is just delightful. Whether it’s juicy tomatoes and crisp cucumbers, or a mix of greens with a tangy dressing, Greek feta makes it better.
So, next time you’re fixing up a salad, think about adding some Greek feta cheese. Let your taste buds travel to the Mediterranean, and enjoy the simple, amazing flavors it brings.
Easy homemade Greek salad dressing
The dressing is as simple as can be – just oil and vinegar do the trick. However, here’s the secret: use good extra virgin olive oil. It makes all the difference.
Now, let’s talk about the vinegar. A classic Greek Horiatiki salad goes for red wine vinegar; that’s the traditional touch. Yet, you’ve got options, such as balsamic vinegar, which some folks actually prefer. It’s all about finding what suits your taste.
When you put it all together, a sort of magic happens. The oil and vinegar blend seamlessly, creating a harmonious combination that’s both familiar and exciting. It’s like the gentle whisper of olive trees and the tangy essence of vineyards, all encapsulated in a single drizzle.
So, as you craft your salad, always remember, simplicity can truly be a masterpiece. Allow the oil and vinegar to serve as your trusted guides, taking you on a delightful journey through flavors that are simultaneously comforting and novel.
When all your veggies are ready, it’s time for the magic – mixing olive oil with red wine vinegar. Simply drizzle this flavorful combo over the chopped veggies and give them a gentle toss.
Looking for a little twist? Sometimes, I like to elevate the experience by adding a teaspoon of honey to the mix. It’s not the usual move, but it brings a delightful sweet kick. This touch of sweetness enhances the tanginess of the tomatoes and the creaminess of the cheese, creating a harmonious blend.
Now, let’s delve into the realm of enjoyment. You have options – go for the classic route and pair this fresh salad with a just-out-of-the-oven baguette or some fresh pita bread. Alternatively, keep it straightforward and relish it on its own. It’s time to dig in and savor every delightful bite!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) About Greek Salad
- Can I prepare a simple Greek Salad in advance? Yes, you can. However, it’s best to assemble the salad shortly before serving to maintain the crispness of the vegetables and the flavors at their peak. If you need to prep in advance, keep the dressing separate and add it just before enjoying.
- Is Horiatiki Salad considered a healthy option? Absolutely. Greek Salad is a healthy choice as it’s packed with nutrient-rich vegetables and heart-healthy olive oil. The inclusion of feta cheese provides a good source of calcium and protein. Just be mindful of portion sizes and the amount of dressing used.
- Is Greek Salad suitable for vegetarians? Yes, Greek Salad is naturally vegetarian and can be enjoyed by individuals following a vegetarian diet. It’s a great way to incorporate a variety of vegetables and flavors into your meals.
- Can I make a vegan version of a fresh Greek Salad? Certainly. To make a vegan Greek Salad, you can omit the feta cheese or replace it with a dairy-free alternative. Fortunately, the market offers a variety of vegan feta cheeses that adeptly mimic the taste and texture of their traditional counterparts.
- What occasions are ideal for serving Greek Salad? Simple Greek Salad is perfect for various occasions, such as summer gatherings, picnics, barbecues, and as a light lunch or dinner option. Its vibrant colors and fresh flavors make it an appealing choice year-round.
Fresh Simple Greek Salad
- Total Time: 10 min
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
This fresh simple Greek salad (Horiatiki), packed with olives, feta cheese, and fresh, tasty vegetables, is a must-have recipe for those delightful summer days.
Ingredients
- 200 g feta cheese
- 1 red onion
- 300 g of tomatoes (cherry or Roma)
- 1 cucumber
- 1 green bell pepper
- 150 g of Kalamata olives
Dressing:
- 4 tablespoons of extra virgin olive oil
- 1 to 2 tablespoons red wine vinegar
- 1 tablespoon of dried oregano
- Salt and black pepper to taste
Instructions
- To start, rinse the bell pepper, cucumber, and tomatoes. Chop the bell pepper, tomatoes, and cucumber into bite-sized pieces, and thinly slice the onion.
- Afterward, gather them in a bowl along with the olives. Proceed by drizzling the mixture with extra virgin olive oil and wine vinegar.
- Season the mixture with a touch of salt, some freshly ground black pepper, and a sprinkle of oregano.
- Following that, give the mixture a gentle mix, and then add the diced feta cheese.
- Lastly, before serving, finish it off with a light drizzle of olive oil.
Notes
Let’s not forget the fresh herbs – oregano, mint, and parsley – the very soul of Greek cuisine. Liberally sprinkle these fragrant herbs onto your salad to infuse it with an explosion of aroma and taste that captures the true spirit of Greece.
To truly elevate your Horiatiki salad, remember to pay attention to the finer details. Opt for the aromatic addition of freshly ground black pepper. This simple touch can make a significant difference in enhancing the overall flavor profile of your salad.
- Prep Time: 10 min
- Category: Salad
- Cuisine: Greek
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 4 servings , Amount per serving:
- Calories: 310
- Sugar: 7.9g
- Sodium: 598
- Fat: 25.5g
- Saturated Fat: 9.7g
- Carbohydrates: 13.6g
- Fiber: 2.8g
- Protein: 9.1g
- Cholesterol: 44mg
