Greek Salad, also known as Horiatiki, is a classic Mediterranean dish that features fresh vegetables, feta cheese, and olives. This vibrant and refreshing salad is perfect for a light lunch or as a side dish with your favorite grilled meats.
Ingredients
- 4 large tomatoes, chopped
- 1 cucumber, sliced
- 1 red onion, thinly sliced
- 1 green bell pepper, sliced
- 1/2 cup Kalamata olives
- 200g feta cheese, cubed
- 1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil
- 1 tablespoon red wine vinegar
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions of Greek Salad
1. Preparing the Vegetables
- In a large bowl, combine the chopped tomatoes, sliced cucumber, thinly sliced red onion, and sliced green bell pepper. Toss the vegetables together to mix them evenly.
2. Adding the Olives and Cheese
- Add the Kalamata olives to the bowl of mixed vegetables. Gently fold in the cubed feta cheese, ensuring that the cheese is well-distributed throughout the salad.
3. Dressing the Salad
- In a small bowl, whisk together the extra virgin olive oil, red wine vinegar, dried oregano, salt, and pepper. Pour the dressing over the salad and toss everything together until all the ingredients are well-coated.
4. Final Touches
- Let the salad sit for a few minutes to allow the flavors to meld. Serve the Greek Salad immediately, garnished with an extra sprinkle of oregano if desired.
Tips for Variations
- Add Protein: Include grilled chicken or shrimp for a heartier version of the salad.
- Herbs: Fresh herbs like basil or mint can be added for extra flavor.
- Vegetables: Incorporate additional vegetables such as radishes or cherry tomatoes for more variety.
- Dressing: Use lemon juice instead of red wine vinegar for a citrusy twist.
- Cheese: Try substituting feta with goat cheese for a different flavor profile.
Macros
- Calories: 220
- Protein: 6g
- Carbohydrates: 10g
- Fat: 18g
- Fiber: 3g
Frequently Asked Questions for Horiatiki
1. Can I make Greek Salad ahead of time?
- Yes, you can prepare the vegetables and dressing separately ahead of time. Combine them just before serving to keep the salad fresh and crisp.
2. What can I substitute for feta cheese?
- Goat cheese or ricotta salata are good substitutes for feta cheese.
3. How long does Greek Salad last in the fridge?
- Greek Salad can last up to 2 days in the fridge. However, it is best enjoyed fresh.
4. Is Greek Salad gluten-free?
- Yes, Greek Salad is naturally gluten-free, making it a great option for those with gluten sensitivities.
Guide for Making Authentic Greek Salad (Horiatiki)
Greek Salad, also known as Horiatiki, is a classic Mediterranean dish that features fresh vegetables, feta cheese, and olives.
Ingredients
- 4 large tomatoes chopped
- 1 cucumber sliced
- 1 red onion thinly sliced
- 1 green bell pepper sliced
- ½ cup Kalamata olives
- 200 g feta cheese cubed
- ¼ cup extra virgin olive oil
- 1 tablespoon red wine vinegar
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- In a large bowl, combine the chopped tomatoes, sliced cucumber, thinly sliced red onion, and sliced green bell pepper. Toss the vegetables together to mix them evenly.
- Add the Kalamata olives to the bowl of mixed vegetables. Gently fold in the cubed feta cheese, ensuring that the cheese is well-distributed throughout the salad.
- In a small bowl, whisk together the extra virgin olive oil, red wine vinegar, dried oregano, salt, and pepper. Pour the dressing over the salad and toss everything together until all the ingredients are well-coated.
- Let the salad sit for a few minutes to allow the flavors to meld. Serve the Greek Salad immediately, garnished with an extra sprinkle of oregano if desired.