Indulge in the vibrant flavors of the Mediterranean with our authentic Big Fat Greek Salad recipe. This classic dish is a symphony of fresh, wholesome ingredients, each contributing its unique charm to create a satisfying and nutritious meal. From the crisp cucumbers and juicy tomatoes to the hearty white beans and tangy Kalamata olives, every bite is a delightful exploration of Greek culinary heritage. Topped with creamy feta cheese and a drizzle of zesty lemon-oregano dressing, this salad is a feast for both the eyes and the palate.
In addition to the main recipe, we offer variations to cater to different preferences and dietary needs. For a vegan version, simply omit the feta cheese and use a plant-based dressing. If you prefer a heartier salad, add grilled chicken or shrimp for a protein boost. For a low-carb option, reduce the amount of white beans and add more non-starchy vegetables like bell peppers or zucchini. No matter which variation you choose, you'll enjoy a flavorful and satisfying meal that embodies the spirit of Greek cuisine.
TRADITIONAL GREEK SALAD RECIPE
Simple traditional Greek Salad with ripe tomatoes, cucumbers, bell peppers, onions, olives and creamy feta cheese.
Provided by Suzy Karadsheh
Categories Salad
Time 15m
Number Of Ingredients 10
Steps:
- Cut the red onion in half and thinly slice into half moons. (If you want to take the edge off, place the sliced onions in a solution of iced water and vinegar for a bit before adding to the salad. I do this in the video).
- Cut the tomatoes into wedges or large chunks (I sliced some into rounds and cut the rest in wedges).
- Cut the partially peeled cucumber in half length-wise, then slice into thick halves (at least 1/2" in thickness)
- Thinly slice the bell pepper into rings.
- Place everything in a large salad dish. Add a good handful of pitted kalamata olives.
- Season very lightly with kosher salt (just a pinch) and a bit of dried oregano.
- Pour the olive oil and red wine vinegar all over the salad. Give everything a very gentle toss to mix (do NOT over mix, this salad is not meant to be handled too much).
- Now add the the feta blocks on top and add a sprinkle more of dried oregano.
- Serve with crusty bread.
Nutrition Facts : Calories 102.9 kcal, Sodium 2.8 mg, Fat 9.5 g, SaturatedFat 1.3 g, Carbohydrate 4.7 g, Fiber 1.1 g, Protein 0.7 g, ServingSize 1 serving
MY BIG FAT GREEK SALAD
Make and share this My Big Fat Greek Salad recipe from Food.com.
Provided by The Spice Guru
Categories Salad Dressings
Time 25m
Yield 6 serving(s)
Number Of Ingredients 18
Steps:
- NOTE: MARINATE SALAD IN REFRIGERATOR FOR 30 MINUTES OR LONGER, THEN RE-SEASON WITH FINE SEA SALT AND RE-TOSS BEFORE SERVING.
- PEEL and slice red onion into 1/4" rings; PLACE onion slices in a bowl of cold water.
- REFRIGERATE bowl of water with onions until needed (the cold soak will diffuse sharpness and/or bitterness).
- PREPARE DRESSING: Finely grate 1/4 teaspoon fresh lemon zest. Knead and cut lemons into halves to juice, yielding 1 1/2 tablespoons juice. Whisk together all ingredients in a small mixing bowl. Set aside at room temperature to allow flavors to infuse. FOR A TANGIER DRESSING: Add up to 2 1/2 - 3 tablespoons extra red wine vinegar, plus sugar to balance acidity. FOR A LIGHTER DRESSING: Replace some of the olive oil with kalamata olive brine before adding sea salt, then adjust salt according to taste.
- PREP the remaining vegetables to specifications; DICE the feta cheese into 1-inch cubes.
- REMOVE onions from water and blot dry.
- COMBINE all ingredients except feta cheese in a large bowl.
- POUR the dressing over vegetables and gently toss until evenly blended.
- SPRINKLE top of salad with feta cheese (if desired you can gently fold feta with salad to moisten with dressing).
- SERVE and enjoy.
Nutrition Facts : Calories 208.8, Fat 19.1, SaturatedFat 5.1, Cholesterol 17.9, Sodium 503.9, Carbohydrate 7, Fiber 1.5, Sugar 3.3, Protein 3.8
MY BIG FAT GREEK SALAD
You can't go wrong with this Greek salad, especially if you remember the only and most important tip: toss it with the vinegar first before adding olive oil. If you don't, it will not taste as good. Which reminds me, giving the amounts here is very difficult, since this really should be made to your tastes, so please use the ingredient list as a very rough outline.
Provided by Chef John
Categories Salad Vegetable Salad Recipes
Time 1h10m
Yield 4
Number Of Ingredients 14
Steps:
- Peel off a few strips of cucumber skin using a channel knife, creating a striped pattern. Cut cucumbers in half crosswise. Cut each half into quarters before cutting into 1/4- to 1/2-inch slices. Place into a colander; toss with some kosher salt and let sit for 10 to 15 minutes.
- Meanwhile, cut cherry tomatoes in half. Rinse cucumbers; drain thoroughly for 10 to 15 minutes more.
- While cucumbers are draining, slice onion thinly. Cut bell pepper into strips. Turn knife diagonally and cut strips into diamond-shaped pieces. Slice Kalamata and green olives.
- Combine cucumbers, tomatoes, onion, bell pepper, olives, and 2 tablespoons oregano in a bowl. Season with salt, black pepper, and cayenne. Sprinkle in vinegar and toss thoroughly. Drizzle in olive oil. Add about 2/3 of the feta cheese and toss again. Cover with plastic wrap and refrigerate for 30 to 60 minutes.
- Give the salad another mix. Taste and season as desired. Scatter remaining feta cheese on top and garnish with remaining oregano.
Nutrition Facts : Calories 352.3 calories, Carbohydrate 12.9 g, Cholesterol 25.1 mg, Fat 31.8 g, Fiber 2.6 g, Protein 6.3 g, SaturatedFat 7.6 g, Sodium 1249.9 mg, Sugar 2.1 g
GREEK-STYLE WATERMELON SALAD
It's not an immediately obvious combination - watermelon, cucumber, olives and feta - but one bite will leave you convinced that this savory-sweet summer salad is something truly special. The astringent punch of the olives and feta provides a sophisticated counterpoint to the watery mellowness of the melon and cucumber. With a hunk of bread, it's a lovely light lunch; with practically any grilled meat or fish, it's an ideal summer supper.
Provided by Mark Bittman
Categories easy, quick, salads and dressings
Time 5m
Yield 4 servings
Number Of Ingredients 9
Steps:
- In a large bowl combine 3 cups cubed watermelon; 2 large ripe tomatoes, chopped; 1 medium cucumber, peeled, seeded and chopped; 1 small red onion, sliced; 1/3 cup pitted kalamata olives; 1/3 cup crumbled feta; and some chopped parsley and mint. Drizzle with olive oil and red-wine vinegar, sprinkle with salt and pepper, toss and serve.
Nutrition Facts : @context http, Calories 147, UnsaturatedFat 5 grams, Carbohydrate 17 grams, Fat 8 grams, Fiber 3 grams, Protein 4 grams, SaturatedFat 3 grams, Sodium 698 milligrams, Sugar 11 grams
BEST GREEK QUINOA SALAD
This is my absolute favorite quinoa recipe! It's so flavorful and always a big hit with my family and friends. Trust me, you'll want to eat every single bite!
Provided by Allison.Kaye
Categories Salad Grains Quinoa Salad Recipes
Time 1h40m
Yield 10
Number Of Ingredients 12
Steps:
- Bring broth and quinoa to a boil in a saucepan. Reduce heat to medium-low, cover, and simmer until quinoa is tender and water has been absorbed, 15 to 20 minutes. Transfer quinoa to a large bowl and set aside to cool, about 10 minutes.
- Mix tomatoes, parsley, kalamata olives, onion, feta cheese, olive oil, vinegar, and garlic into quinoa. Squeeze lemon juice over quinoa salad, season with salt and pepper, and toss to coat. Chill in refrigerator, 1 to 4 hours.
Nutrition Facts : Calories 227.1 calories, Carbohydrate 25.8 g, Cholesterol 12.2 mg, Fat 10.6 g, Fiber 2.9 g, Protein 7.4 g, SaturatedFat 2.7 g, Sodium 665.7 mg, Sugar 1.3 g
Tips:
- Use fresh, high-quality ingredients: The quality of your ingredients will greatly impact the taste of your salad. Use ripe, juicy tomatoes, crisp cucumbers, and flavorful feta cheese.
- Choose a good quality olive oil: Olive oil is a key ingredient in Greek salad. Use a good quality extra virgin olive oil for the best flavor.
- Don't overdress the salad: A little bit of olive oil and vinegar goes a long way. Too much dressing can overwhelm the flavors of the salad.
- Let the salad marinate: Marinating the salad for at least 30 minutes allows the flavors to meld together. This will result in a more flavorful salad.
- Serve the salad at room temperature: Greek salad is best served at room temperature. This allows the flavors to shine through.
Conclusion:
Big Fat Greek Salad is a delicious and healthy salad that is perfect for a summer meal. It is packed with fresh vegetables, beans, olives, and feta cheese. The salad is easy to make and can be customized to your liking. With its vibrant colors and bold flavors, Big Fat Greek Salad is sure to be a hit at your next gathering.
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