If you’re craving something fresh, vibrant, and bursting with Mediterranean flavors, this Greek Salad with Feta and Olives recipe is your new go-to. It’s a delightful combination of crisp vegetables, salty feta cheese, and tangy olives that come together effortlessly to create a healthy and satisfying dish. Whether as a light lunch, a side for dinner, or part of a summer picnic, this Greek Salad with Feta and Olives is guaranteed to brighten your meals and please your taste buds.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Simple Ingredients: Uses fresh, wholesome ingredients you likely have on hand or can find easily at any grocery store.
- Quick Preparation: Ready in under 15 minutes, perfect for busy days or last-minute meals.
- Healthy and Nutritious: Packed with vitamins, minerals, and healthy fats, this salad supports a balanced diet.
- Versatile Dish: Works well as a standalone meal or an accompaniment to grilled meats and seafood.
- Authentic Mediterranean Flavor: Captures the essence of Greek cuisine with fresh herbs and a classic dressing.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This Greek Salad with Feta and Olives recipe keeps things delightfully simple but powerful, focusing on fresh vegetables, creamy feta, and tangy olives for a perfect balance of flavors and textures.
- Ripe Tomatoes: Choose vine-ripened tomatoes for juicy, vibrant flavor that forms the salad’s base.
- Crisp Cucumbers: Adds refreshing crunch and lightness, keeping the salad cool.
- Red Onion: Thinly sliced for a bit of sharpness and color contrast.
- Feta Cheese: Use block feta for a creamy, salty element that ties everything together.
- Kalamata Olives: Rich and briny, these olives bring an authentic Greek twist.
- Fresh Parsley or Oregano: Herbs add fragrance and a touch of earthiness.
- Extra Virgin Olive Oil: The dressing’s heart, providing smooth richness and enhancing flavors.
- Red Wine Vinegar: For a tangy kick that balances the olive oil and cheese.
- Salt and Pepper: To taste, ensuring all ingredients shine.
Variations for Greek Salad with Feta and Olives
Feel free to make this Greek Salad with Feta and Olives your own by experimenting with a few simple changes. Whether you want to switch up ingredients or accommodate dietary preferences, it’s easy to customize.
- Add a Protein Boost: Toss in grilled chicken, shrimp, or chickpeas for a heartier meal.
- Try Different Cheeses: Substitute feta with halloumi or goat cheese for a unique twist.
- Use Other Olives: Swap Kalamata with green olives or Castelvetrano for milder or brighter notes.
- Include Extra Veggies: Add bell peppers, radishes, or avocado for more texture and nutrients.
- Make it Vegan: Replace feta with marinated tofu or vegan cheese to keep it plant-based.
How to Make Greek Salad with Feta and Olives
Step 1: Prep the Vegetables
Start by washing your tomatoes and cucumbers thoroughly. Chop the tomatoes into medium-sized chunks and slice the cucumbers into half-moons or rounds. Thinly slice the red onion for a delicate bite that won’t overpower the salad.
Step 2: Combine Fresh Ingredients
In a large bowl, toss together the chopped tomatoes, cucumbers, and red onion. Add the Kalamata olives whole or halved depending on your preference. Sprinkle generous cubes or crumbles of feta cheese on top.
Step 3: Make the Dressing
In a small bowl, whisk together extra virgin olive oil, red wine vinegar, salt, and freshly ground black pepper. Adjust the seasoning to taste; the dressing should be tangy and balanced.
Step 4: Dress and Toss
Pour the dressing over the salad ingredients and gently toss everything to coat evenly without breaking up the feta. Add freshly chopped parsley or oregano for an herbal finish.
Step 5: Serve Immediately
This salad shines best when served fresh, so enjoy it right away for the crispest texture and brightest flavors.
Pro Tips for Making Greek Salad with Feta and Olives
- Use Block Feta: Crumble feta from a block rather than pre-crumbled for better texture and flavor.
- Don’t Overdress: Add dressing gradually to avoid soggy vegetables.
- Chill Your Ingredients: Keeping vegetables cold enhances crunch and refreshment.
- Slice Onions Thinly: Reduces sharpness and creates a mild, sweet flavor.
- Use Quality Olive Oil: Extra virgin olive oil makes a huge difference in taste and richness.
How to Serve Greek Salad with Feta and Olives
Garnishes
Top your Greek Salad with a sprinkle of fresh herbs like dill or oregano to add an aromatic boost. A few capers or a drizzle of aged balsamic glaze can also add exciting layers of flavor and presentation.
Side Dishes
This salad pairs beautifully with grilled meats like lamb or chicken, roasted vegetables, or crusty bread for mopping up the delicious dressing. It’s an excellent complement to Mediterranean-inspired plates.
Creative Ways to Present
Serve the salad in a rustic wooden bowl for a farm-to-table feel or layer it neatly in a glass jar for packed lunches or picnics. Adding edible flowers can also lift the visual appeal for special occasions.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Store your Greek Salad with Feta and Olives in an airtight container in the refrigerator. To prevent sogginess, keep the dressing separate until you’re ready to eat.
Freezing
This salad is best enjoyed fresh, so freezing is not recommended as it will affect the texture of the vegetables and feta.
Reheating
Since this salad is served cold and fresh, reheating is not necessary or advised. Simply enjoy chilled for the best experience.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of cheese instead of feta?
Yes, halloumi or goat cheese can work well as alternatives, though feta’s saltiness and creaminess are traditional.
Is Greek Salad with Feta and Olives suitable for vegans?
Traditional Greek Salad includes feta, but you can make a vegan version by omitting cheese or using plant-based feta alternatives.
What olives are best to use in Greek Salad?
Kalamata olives are preferred for their rich flavor and authenticity, but green olives can also be used depending on your taste.
Can I add other vegetables to this salad?
Absolutely! Peppers, radishes, or even artichoke hearts are tasty additions that enhance the salad’s complexity.
How long will Greek Salad with Feta and Olives last in the fridge?
When stored properly, it will keep fresh for about 2 days, but it’s best enjoyed the same day for maximum crunch and flavor.
Final Thoughts
This Greek Salad with Feta and Olives is truly one of those recipes that feels like a celebration of simple, fresh ingredients. It’s easy to make, healthy, and irresistibly delicious — perfect for brightening up your meals anytime. Give it a go today and enjoy a taste of the Mediterranean that’s as wholesome as it is joyful.