Greek Salad Bowl

There's something magical about a perfectly crafted Greek salad—that harmonious blend of crisp vegetables, briny olives, and tangy feta cheese that transports you straight to a sun-drenched taverna overlooking the Mediterranean. This classic Greek Salad Bowl celebrates simplicity and fresh ingredients, letting each component shine while creating a symphony of flavors and textures that has stood the test of time.

Save to Pinterest

In Greece, this salad—known as 'horiatiki'—is an institution. It's a celebration of the Mediterranean diet at its finest: simple, nutritious, and bursting with flavor. What makes this version special is the careful balance of each ingredient, ensuring you get the perfect bite every time. The red wine vinaigrette ties everything together with aromatic oregano and just the right amount of garlic, creating a dressing worthy of its legendary status.

Ingredients

• 6 cups romaine lettuce, chopped
• 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
• 1 cup cucumber, sliced
• 1/2 small red onion, thinly sliced
• 3/4 cup feta cheese, crumbled
• 1/2 cup Kalamata olives, pitted and halved
• 1/4 cup extra-virgin olive oil
• 2 tbsp red wine vinegar
• 1 tsp dried oregano
• 1 clove garlic, minced
• 1/2 tsp Dijon mustard
• 1/4 tsp salt
• 1/8 tsp black pepper

Instructions

Prepare the vegetables

In a large salad bowl, combine the romaine lettuce, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, and red onion.

Add cheese and olives

Sprinkle the feta cheese and Kalamata olives over the vegetables.

Make the vinaigrette

In a small bowl or jar, whisk together the olive oil, red wine vinegar, oregano, garlic, Dijon mustard, salt, and black pepper until well emulsified.

Dress and serve

Drizzle the vinaigrette over the salad just before serving. Toss gently to combine.

Enjoy immediately

Serve immediately for the freshest flavor and texture.

Zusatztipps für die Zubereitung

The key to an exceptional Greek salad lies in the quality of ingredients. Seek out the most flavorful tomatoes you can find—they should be ripe but still firm. For authentic flavor, look for genuine Greek feta made from sheep's milk, which offers a creamier texture and tangier taste than cow's milk versions. Slice the red onion as thinly as possible to provide flavor without overwhelming the other ingredients.

Varianten und Anpassungen

While this recipe offers the classic Greek salad experience, there are several delicious variations to explore. For a heartier version, add cooked quinoa or orzo pasta. Make it dairy-free by substituting vegan feta or simply omitting the cheese altogether. Add roasted red peppers for sweetness or a sprinkle of fresh dill for an aromatic touch. For some heat, include a few slices of pepperoncini.

Serviervorschläge

This Greek salad makes an excellent side dish for grilled meats, especially lamb or chicken souvlaki. For a complete Mediterranean meal, serve alongside warm pita bread and a dollop of hummus or tzatziki. For a light lunch option, simply enjoy the salad on its own with a slice of crusty bread to soak up the delicious dressing at the bottom of the bowl. Pair with a crisp white wine like Assyrtiko for an authentic Greek dining experience.

Save to Pinterest

This Greek Salad Bowl is more than just a recipe—it's a celebration of Mediterranean culinary tradition. With each crunchy, creamy, tangy bite, you'll understand why this simple combination of ingredients has endured for generations. Whether enjoyed as a light lunch, a refreshing side dish, or the star of your dinner table, this Greek classic proves that sometimes the most straightforward recipes deliver the most memorable flavors.

Recipe Q&A

→ What types of olives are used in this salad?

Kalamata olives, which are pitted and halved, give a briny and fruity flavor typical of Greek cuisine.

→ Can I use another cheese instead of feta?

While feta provides a tangy creaminess, goat cheese or halloumi can be used as alternatives for different textures and flavors.

→ How is the Greek vinaigrette prepared?

The vinaigrette is made by whisking together extra-virgin olive oil, red wine vinegar, dried oregano, minced garlic, Dijon mustard, salt, and black pepper until well combined.

→ Is this dish suitable for gluten-free diets?

Yes, all ingredients are naturally gluten-free, making it safe for those avoiding gluten.

→ What can I add for extra flavor?

Adding sliced bell peppers or fresh dill can enhance the aromatic profile and introduce more vibrant colors.