Greek Feta Salad
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Greek Feta Salad
This Greek feta salad brings the vibrant spirit of the Mediterranean to your table with crisp vegetables, briny olives, and rich feta cheese. The simple olive oil dressing enhances each ingredient beautifully for a refreshing burst of flavor. You can enjoy this Greek feta salad in just 20 minutes, making it perfect for quick lunches or as a bright side dish at summer gatherings.
I first encountered this salad during a sun drenched afternoon on Santorini, where the balance of creamy feta and acidic tomatoes left a lasting impression. It has since become my go to for casual dinners and festive occasions alike. I love pairing it with our traditional Italian meatballs or serving it alongside cheesy garlic bliss bread for a complete meal. This Greek feta salad consistently transports me back to those breezy coastal moments.
Why You’ll Love This Mediterranean Sensation
- Fresh Ingredient Harmony: Crisp cucumber and sweet cherry tomatoes create a refreshing base.
- Quick Preparation: This salad comes together in just 20 minutes with zero cooking required.
- Versatile Pairing: It complements everything from grilled meats to bread based dishes perfectly.
- Authentic Flavor Experience: Genuine feta cheese and Kalamata olives deliver true Mediterranean taste.
What You’ll Need for Authentic Greek Feta Salad
Be sure to see the recipe card below for the full listing of ingredients, instructions, notes, and estimated nutritional information.
- English cucumber: Peeled and seeded for optimal texture and mild flavor.
- Cherry tomatoes: Halved to release their sweet juices into the salad.
- Red onion: Thinly sliced to provide sharp contrast to the creamy elements.
- Green bell pepper: Adds crisp texture and fresh vegetal notes.
- Kalamata olives: Use pitted varieties for their authentic briny character.
- Block feta cheese: Cubed or crumbled for perfect distribution throughout.
- Extra olive oil: Forms the base of our simple Mediterranean dressing.
- Red wine vinegar: Provides the necessary acidic balance to the oil.
- Dried oregano: Delivers that classic Greek salad aroma and flavor.
- Kosher salt and pepper: Season to taste for the perfect finishing touch.
Greek Feta Salad
Make this authentic Greek feta salad with fresh cucumbers, tomatoes, olives, and creamy feta cheese. Simple 20-minute recipe with olive oil dressing.
Equipment
- large mixing bowl
- small bowl
- knife
- cutting board
- measuring cups
- measuring spoons
- whisk
- jar
Ingredients
Salad Ingredients
- 1 large English cucumber peeled and seeded, cut into 1/2-inch cubes
- 2 cups cherry tomatoes halved, or 2 large Roma tomatoes, cut into 1/2-inch wedges
- 1/2 medium red onion very thinly sliced
- 1 green bell pepper cored and seeded, cut into 1/2-inch pieces
- 1/2 cup Kalamata olives pitted, whole or halved
- 4 ounces block feta cheese crumbled or cut into 1/2-inch cubes
Dressing
- 1/4 cup extra olive oil
- 2 tablespoons red wine vinegar
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt or to taste
- 1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper or to taste
Instructions
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the 1 large peeled, seeded, and 1/2-inch cubed English cucumber, 2 cups halved cherry tomatoes (or 1/2-inch wedged Roma tomatoes), 1/2 very thinly sliced red onion, 1 cored and seeded green bell pepper cut into 1/2-inch pieces, and 1/2 cup pitted Kalamata olives.
- Crumble or cut the 4 ounces of block feta cheese into 1/2-inch cubes and gently add it to the bowl with the prepared vegetables.
- In a small bowl or jar, whisk together the 1/4 cup extra olive oil, 2 tablespoons red wine vinegar, 1 teaspoon dried oregano, 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt, and 1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper until thoroughly combined and emulsified.
- Pour the prepared dressing over the vegetables and feta in the large mixing bowl, ensuring it covers all ingredients.
- Gently toss the salad using a large spoon or salad tongs to evenly distribute the dressing throughout all the ingredients. Serve immediately for optimal freshness, or allow the salad to sit for 15-20 minutes at room temperature for the flavors to meld before serving.
Notes
Serve immediately for optimal freshness, or allow the salad to sit for 15-20 minutes at room temperature for the flavors to meld before serving.
Ways to Customize Your Salad Creation
- Add Protein Boost: Include grilled chicken or chickpeas for a heartier meal option.
- Herb Freshness: Incorporate fresh mint or dill for additional aromatic complexity.
- Creamy Version: Mix in avocado slices or Greek yogurt for richer texture.
My Pro Tips for Salad Success
- Vegetable Preparation: Cut all vegetables uniformly for consistent texture in every bite.
- Feta Handling: Crumble cheese gently to maintain its creamy texture and shape.
- Dressing Emulsification: Whisk dressing vigorously until fully combined and slightly thickened.
- Resting Time: Let salad sit briefly before serving to allow flavors to meld.
Keeping Your Greek Salad Fresh
- Store: Refrigerate in airtight container for up to 2 days, though best enjoyed fresh.
- Freeze: Not recommended as vegetables will lose their crisp texture upon thawing.
- Reheat: Serve chilled or at room temperature, no reheating necessary or advised.
- Make-Ahead Tip: Prepare vegetables and dressing separately, combining just before serving.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use regular cucumbers instead of English?
Yes, you can use regular cucumbers, but I recommend peeling and seeding them first. English cucumbers have thinner skins and fewer seeds, which makes them preferable for this fresh vegetable salad.
What can I substitute for Kalamata olives?
You can use any brine cured black olives if Kalamata aren’t available. Their salty, briny character is essential to authentic Mediterranean salad flavor profiles.
How long does Greek salad last in fridge?
This salad maintains best texture for about 24 hours. The vegetables will release water over time, so I recommend enjoying it freshly made for optimal crispness.
Can I make this salad vegan?
Absolutely, simply omit the feta or use a plant based alternative. The olive oil dressing and fresh vegetables create a wonderful vegan Mediterranean salad option.
Other Favorite Mediterranean Recipes
Why This Greek Feta Salad Wins Hearts
With its perfect balance of creamy feta, crisp vegetables, and bright dressing, this Greek feta salad brings authentic Mediterranean flavors to your table effortlessly. It’s the ideal choice for busy weeknights or entertaining guests with its quick preparation and beautiful presentation. I hope this becomes a staple in your recipe rotation just as it has in mine.
