Greek Salad
As the sun blazes overhead and summer gatherings fill the air with laughter, a Greek salad often finds its special place on the table. Picture it: a vibrant mix of fresh vegetables, salty feta, and a drizzle of olive oil, all coming together to create a dish that’s not just tasty but also refreshing.
Equipment
- Bowl, Cup
Ingredients
- 3/4 large cucumber peeled, seeded, and coarsely chopped
- 3 large plum tomatoes seeded and coarsely chopped
- 1 bell pepper seeded and coarsely chopped
- 1/2 cup pitted black olives preferably brine-cured, coarsely chopped
- 1/2 small red onion chopped
- Heaping 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese
- 1/2 teaspoon chopped garlic
- 6 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
- 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon red wine vinegar
- 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano or 1 teaspoon chopped fresh oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon dried dill or 1 teaspoon chopped fresh dill
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
Instructions
Step 1: Prep Your Ingredients
- Start by washing all your vegetables thoroughly. Then, get chopping! Dice the cucumbers, tomatoes, and bell peppers into bite-sized pieces. The goal here is to have everything roughly the same size so that each forkful offers a little of everything.
Step 2: Mix the Vegetables
- In a large bowl, combine the chopped cucumbers, tomatoes, bell peppers, olives, and red onion. Give them a gentle toss to mix everything together. Allow your colorful mixture to sit while you prepare the dressing.
Step 3: Make the Dressing
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the olive oil, lemon juice, red wine vinegar, chopped garlic, oregano, dill, salt, and pepper. This dressing not only elevates the salad's flavor but also adds an aromatic quality that is hard to resist.
Step 4: Combine Everything
- Pour the dressing over the bowl of vegetables. Toss everything gently until every piece is lightly coated with the dressing. Be careful not to break the feta as you mix!
Step 5: Add the Feta
- Now, it's time for the final touch. Sprinkle the crumbled feta over the top, and give it one last gentle toss. This step adds a creamy texture and tanginess that complements the freshness of your salad beautifully.
Step 6: Chill and Serve
- Let the salad sit for at least 15 minutes before serving. This resting period allows the flavors to mingle and develop. Serve it cold or at room temperature, and watch as everyone enjoys this delightful dish.
Notes
Here are some pro tips to enhance your Greek salad-making experience:
Use Fresh Ingredients: Always opt for the freshest vegetables. The taste difference is significant.
Let It Rest: Allowing the salad to rest after mixing helps the flavors to meld beautifully.
Experiment with Additions: Feel free to add in cooked chickpeas or avocado for extra protein and creaminess.
Opt for Quality Olive Oil: The dressing makes a big impact, so choose a high-quality extra virgin olive oil.
Prepare in Advance: This salad can be made ahead of time. Just keep it covered in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before serving.
Let It Rest: Allowing the salad to rest after mixing helps the flavors to meld beautifully.
Experiment with Additions: Feel free to add in cooked chickpeas or avocado for extra protein and creaminess.
Opt for Quality Olive Oil: The dressing makes a big impact, so choose a high-quality extra virgin olive oil.
Prepare in Advance: This salad can be made ahead of time. Just keep it covered in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before serving.
Nutrition
Calories: 180kcalCarbohydrates: 8gProtein: 5gFat: 16gSodium: 350mgFiber: 2gSugar: 3g
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