If you’re dreaming of a dish that’s vibrant, juicy, and packed with flavor, look no further than the classic Greek salad. This refreshing favorite is a delightful mix of crisp cucumbers, sweet cherry tomatoes, briny olives, and creamy feta cheese—all tossed together with a simple olive oil and vinegar dressing. It’s the kind of recipe that feels like sunshine on a plate! Fun fact: traditional Greek salads skip the lettuce altogether, focusing only on the freshest produce, straight from the garden.
Whether you’re planning a quick lunch, a picnic, or a light dinner, this salad is a total crowd-pleaser that comes together in just 15 minutes. It’s just as beloved as our popular Caprese Salad, but with a Greek twist that brings something special to the table. Ready to dive into Mediterranean goodness? Let’s get chopping!
What is Classic Greek Salad?
What exactly is a Classic Greek Salad? Let’s clear that up! It’s not just a random mix of veggies—it’s a staple of Greek cuisine known as “Horiatiki.” Think of it as the superstar of summer salads, bringing together vibrant ingredients like ripe tomatoes, cool cucumbers, and salty olives. No lettuce, no fluff—just honest, delicious simplicity.
Ever wonder why it’s called “Greek”? Well, some say it’s because only the Greeks could make raw veggies taste this good. And as the old saying goes, the way to a man’s heart is through his stomach—especially when there’s feta involved! So why not try your hand at this Mediterranean classic and see why it’s a favorite in households around the world?
Why You’ll Love This Greek Salad Recipe
There’s a lot to adore about this Classic Greek Salad, and here’s why it’ll earn a permanent spot in your recipe rotation:
- Fresh, Flavorful Ingredients: The biggest star here is the freshness—every bite gives you crunch from cucumbers, juiciness from tomatoes, and creamy, salty feta that ties everything together.
- Budget-Friendly & Homemade: Skip the overpriced deli salads and whip this up at home for a fraction of the cost. It’s proof that you don’t need a big budget to enjoy bold, satisfying flavors.
- Unbeatable Toppings: From Kalamata olives to fresh herbs, the toppings in this salad do more than garnish—they bring serious Mediterranean flair.
If you’re already a fan of our Mediterranean Quinoa Salad, you’ll fall head over heels for this Greek favorite. Ready to wow your tastebuds? Get chopping!
How to Make Classic Greek Salad
Quick Overview
This salad is the epitome of easy, healthy, and flavorful cooking. In just 15–20 minutes, you can prep everything and serve up a dish that’s as impressive as it is effortless. With no cooking required and minimal cleanup, this recipe is a lifesaver on busy days.
Ingredients
Here’s everything you’ll need to make a fresh and authentic Classic Greek Salad:
- 2 cups cucumber, sliced
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- ½ red onion, thinly sliced
- ¼ cup Kalamata olives
- ¼ cup green olives
- ½ cup feta cheese, cubed
- 1 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
- ¼ tsp dried oregano
- Salt & pepper, to taste
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tbsp red wine vinegar
Step-by-Step
- Slice & Dice
Begin by slicing the cucumbers, halving the cherry tomatoes, and thinly slicing the red onion. Keep the pieces roughly uniform for the best presentation and balance of flavors. - Mix the Base
In a large salad bowl, combine the cucumbers, tomatoes, red onion, and both types of olives. Gently toss them together to begin blending the flavors. - Add the Feta
Cube your feta cheese and gently fold it into the mixture. Avoid crumbling—it’s best to keep the feta chunky for that authentic Greek look and taste. - Season & Dress
Sprinkle the dried oregano, salt, and black pepper over the salad. Drizzle the olive oil and red wine vinegar on top. - Finishing Touch
Toss everything gently to combine. Top with chopped fresh parsley for a bright, herby finish. - Taste & Serve
Do a final taste test to adjust the seasoning if needed. Serve immediately for the freshest flavor!
What to Serve Classic Greek Salad With
This versatile salad pairs beautifully with grilled meats like chicken, lamb, or fish. It’s also fantastic alongside falafel, tzatziki, or hummus with warm pita. Hosting a mezze night? Add this salad to your platter and let the flavors do the talking. For drinks, a chilled white wine like Sauvignon Blanc or a citrusy sparkling water works perfectly.
Top Tips for Perfecting Your Salad
- Use Block Feta: Always opt for block feta in brine—its texture and taste beat pre-crumbled varieties.
- Chill Before Serving: Let your salad sit in the fridge for 10 minutes after mixing to let the flavors marinate.
- Swap Smart: No red onion? Try shallots. Out of parsley? Use fresh mint or dill for a twist.
Storing and Reheating Tips
To keep your Greek salad fresh, store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. For best texture, store the dressing separately and mix it in just before serving. Avoid freezing—fresh veggies like cucumber and tomato don’t hold up well when frozen. If you need to prep ahead, chop everything but hold off on adding salt and dressing until ready to serve.
FAQs
Q: Can I make this salad the night before?
A: Yes, but store the dressing separately and add it just before serving for the freshest result.
Q: Can I make this dairy-free?
A: Absolutely! Omit the feta or substitute with a dairy-free cheese option.
Q: Is it low-carb or keto-friendly?
A: It’s relatively low-carb and can be keto-friendly if you skip the tomatoes or reduce the quantity.
Conclusion
Classic Greek Salad is more than a quick side—it’s a burst of Mediterranean sunshine in every bite. With fresh vegetables, creamy feta, and zesty dressing, it’s easy to prepare and even easier to love. Whether you’re feeding a family or just treating yourself, this dish is sure to impress with its bold flavors and simplicity. So go ahead, channel your inner Greek chef and bring a taste of the Aegean to your plate tonight!
Classic Greek Salad
Equipment
- Salad Bowl
Ingredients
Ingredients
- 2 cups Cucumber, sliced
- 1 cup Cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1/2 cup Red onion, thinly sliced
- 1/4 cup Kalamata olives
- 1/4 cup Green olives
- 1/2 cup Feta cheese, cubed
- 1 tbsp Fresh parsley, chopped
- 1/4 tsp Dried oregano
- to taste Salt & pepper
- 2 tbsp Olive oil
- 1 tbsp Red wine vinegar
Instructions
- Slice the cucumber, halve the cherry tomatoes, and slice the red onion.
- In a large bowl, combine the cucumber, tomatoes, red onion, Kalamata olives, and green olives.
- Add the cubed feta cheese gently to preserve its shape.
- Season with salt, pepper, and dried oregano. Drizzle with olive oil and red wine vinegar.
- Add fresh parsley and toss gently to mix.
- Taste and adjust seasoning if needed. Serve immediately.