Traditional Greek Salad with Homemade Dressing
Ingredients
- 3 medium ripe tomatoes, cut into wedges
- 1 cucumber, sliced into thick half-moons
- 1 green bell pepper, sliced
- 1 red onion, thinly sliced
- 1 cup Kalamata olives, pitted
- 200g (7 oz) block of feta cheese, cut into cubes or one large slice
- Extra virgin olive oil for dressing
- 1 tablespoon red wine vinegar
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
Step 1: In a small bowl, whisk together the extra virgin olive oil, red wine vinegar, oregano, salt, and pepper to create the dressing.
Step 2: In a large bowl, combine tomatoes, cucumber, green bell pepper, and red onion.
Step 3: Add the Kalamata olives to the bowl.
Step 4: Drizzle the homemade dressing over the salad and gently toss to coat all the ingredients.
Step 5: Add the feta cheese on top. If using a block, place in the center, or scatter cubes evenly over the salad.
Step 6: Serve immediately or let it sit for a few minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
Equipment and Tools
- Large salad bowl
- Small mixing bowl
- Whisk
- Knife
- Cutting board
Preparation
Before starting, ensure that all produce is washed and dried. Have your cutting board and knife ready for chopping vegetables and feta cheese. The dressing ingredients should also be prepared to combine easily.
Cooking Process
There is no cooking process involved in making a traditional Greek salad as it is a dish served raw and cold. Simply prepare the ingredients as described, combine them, and toss with the dressing. The key to a great Greek Salad is to use the freshest ingredients and high-quality olive oil for the best flavor.
Tips and Tricks
Use authentic Greek feta cheese for a more traditional flavor.
The longer the salad sits with the dressing on it, the more flavorful it will be, as the ingredients will have time to marinate.
For an extra punch of flavor, add a sprinkle of fresh herbs like parsley or mint.
Nutritional Information
- Calories: Approximately 200 per serving
- Fat: 15g
- Carbohydrates: 10g
- Protein: 6g
Introduction:
Experience the fresh and vibrant flavors of Greece with this Traditional Greek Salad with Homemade Dressing. Perfect for a nutritious lunch or as a side for your Mediterranean dinner, this salad combines the classic ingredients of juicy tomatoes, crisp cucumbers, tangy olives, sharp onions, and creamy feta cheese, all brought together with a rich, flavorful dressing.
Ingredients:
3 medium ripe tomatoes, cut into wedges
1 cucumber, sliced into thick half-moons
Etc.
Equipment:
Large salad bowl
Small mixing bowl
Etc.
Instructions:
Step 1: Dressing
Whisk together olive oil, red wine vinegar, oregano, salt, and pepper.
Step 2: Assembling the Salad
Combine vegetables in a large bowl and add olives.
Step 3: Adding Feta Cheese
Top with feta cheese before serving.
Tips and Variations:
Include capers for an additional briny flavor.
Substitute lemon juice for the vinegar for a citrusy twist.
Consider adding a clove of minced garlic to the dressing for a punch of flavor.
Serving Suggestions:
Serve this salad with grilled meats or seafood, or enjoy it on its own with crusty bread to soak up the flavorful dressing.
Flavor Profile:
This Traditional Greek Salad offers a symphony of flavors: the sweetness of ripe tomatoes, the crunch and coolness of cucumber, the savory depth of Kalamata olives, the pungent punch of red onion, and the salty creaminess of feta, all tied together by the rich and robust homemade dressing.
Conclusion:
This Traditional Greek Salad with Homemade Dressing is more than just a dish; it’s a celebration of simple, high-quality ingredients and the joy of Mediterranean eating. With every bite, you are transported to a sun-drenched terrace overlooking the Aegean Sea. Share it with friends and family and savor the essence of Greek cuisine. Kali orexi! (Bon appétit in Greek)
