Best 5 Real Greek Salad Recipes

**A Culinary Journey to the Heart of Greece: Discover the Authentic Flavors of Traditional Greek Salad**

Embark on a delightful culinary adventure as we delve into the realm of traditional Greek salad, a dish that embodies the vibrant spirit and rich flavors of Greece. This beloved salad, known as "horiatiki salata" in Greek, is a symphony of fresh, wholesome ingredients that come together to create a symphony of taste. From the crisp crunch of cucumbers and the juicy sweetness of tomatoes to the tangy bite of red onions and the briny delight of Kalamata olives, every element of this salad contributes to an unforgettable symphony of flavors. Drizzled with a simple yet divine dressing made from extra virgin olive oil, red wine vinegar, and a blend of aromatic herbs, Greek salad transports you to the sun-kissed shores of Greece with every bite. Whether you're seeking a refreshing appetizer, a light lunch, or a vibrant side dish, this iconic salad promises to tantalize your taste buds and leave you craving more.

**Inside this comprehensive guide, you'll find an array of Greek salad recipes that cater to diverse preferences and dietary needs:**

1. **Classic Greek Salad:** Embark on a culinary journey through the heart of Greece with this timeless recipe that showcases the traditional ingredients and flavors of horiatiki salata in all its glory.

2. **Vegan Greek Salad:** Indulge in a plant-based version of the classic Greek salad that's packed with vibrant flavors and textures. This recipe swaps feta cheese for a creamy vegan alternative, ensuring that everyone can savor the delights of this beloved dish.

3. **Gluten-Free Greek Salad:** Experience the joy of Greek salad without the gluten. This recipe utilizes gluten-free ingredients, making it a delightful option for those with gluten sensitivities or celiac disease.

4. **Greek Salad with Grilled Chicken:** Transform your Greek salad into a satisfying main course with the addition of succulent grilled chicken. This protein-packed variation offers a hearty and flavorful twist on the classic dish.

5. **Greek Salad with Quinoa:** Elevate your Greek salad with the goodness of quinoa, a nutritious grain that adds a delightful nutty flavor and extra fiber. This recipe is perfect for those seeking a wholesome and satisfying meal.

6. **Greek Salad with Roasted Vegetables:** Embark on a culinary adventure with this vibrant Greek salad featuring roasted vegetables. The caramelized flavors of roasted bell peppers, zucchini, and eggplant add a smoky depth to the salad, creating a delightful interplay of textures and flavors.

7. **Greek Salad Dressing:** Master the art of crafting a delectable Greek salad dressing with this step-by-step guide. Discover the perfect balance of extra virgin olive oil, red wine vinegar, and aromatic herbs to create a dressing that enhances the flavors of your salad.

Check out the recipes below so you can choose the best recipe for yourself!

BEST GREEK SALAD

Best Greek Salad image

Here's how to make the absolute Best Greek Salad ever! All it takes is to combine everything well and let sit for 15 minutes for all the flavors to blend together!

Provided by [email protected]

Categories Appetizer Salad Side Dish

Number Of Ingredients 11

Ingredients

2 medium-sized nice and ripe tomatoes
1/2 cucumber
1/2 red onion
1/2 green bell pepper
12 olives ( preferably Kalamata or other Greek)
10-12 pieces of capers
1 block feta cheese (about 100 grams / 3.5 oz)
1 teaspoon dried Greek oregano
6 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
1 teaspoon red wine vinegar
kosher salt & freshly ground pepper

Steps:

Cut tomatoes in half. Cut each half into 6 bite-sized pieces. Add to a salad bowl.
With a vegetable peeler remove half the skin of the cucumber (you may leave as is or remove completely). Cut the cucumber in 4 long sticks lengthwise and then chop to bite-sized pieces. Add to the bowl as well.
Cut onion and pepper to thin slices and add to the bowl.
Cut the feta cheese into 1 cm (1/2 inch) squares and add to the bowl along with the capers & olives.
Drizzle with olive oil and vinegar. Season with kosher salt, freshly ground pepper, and dried oregano. Mix everything well for about 1-2 minutes (better if you do it with your hands). Ideally, let the salad sit for 15 minutes for the flavors to blend.
Transfer to 2 small bowls or serve as is along with some grilled bread.

Nutrition Facts : ServingSize 1 serving, Calories 756.76 kcal, Carbohydrate 16.84 g, Protein 18.59 g, Fat 70.25 g, SaturatedFat 23.27 g, Cholesterol 100.57 mg, Sodium 1783.9 mg, Fiber 4.35 g, Sugar 10.96 g

CLASSIC GREEK SALAD

Classic Greek Salad image

The Authentic way of making a Greek salad. It's a super simple salad that requires no mixing!

Provided by [email protected]

Categories Appetizer Salad

Time 10m

Number Of Ingredients 8

Ingredients

2 medium sized tomatoes (very ripe)
1 small cucumber
1/2 small onion
1/4 green bell pepper
100 grams Greek feta cheese
5-6 Greek kalamata olives
6-7 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
dried oregano

Steps:

Rinse well the cucumber and the tomatoes.
Cut the tomatoes in halves and than into thick slices. Add to a plate.
Slice cucumber in half. Cut in small pieces and add to the plate as well.
Thinly slice the onion and pepper and add to the plate.
Add the feta and olives on top.
Drizzle with olive oil and oregano.
Don't forget the bread for dipping. Enjoy!

Nutrition Facts : Calories 1020 kcal, Carbohydrate 25 g, Protein 14 g, Fat 102 g, SaturatedFat 21 g, Cholesterol 56 mg, Sodium 1407 mg, Fiber 6 g, Sugar 14 g, UnsaturatedFat 75 g, ServingSize 1 serving

TRADITIONAL GREEK SALAD RECIPE

Traditional Greek Salad Recipe image

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

Ingredients

1 medium red onion
4 Medium juicy tomatoes
1 English cucumber (hot house cucumber) (partially peeled making a striped pattern)
1 green bell pepper (cored)
Greek pitted Kalamata olives (a handful to your liking)
kosher salt (a pinch)
4 tbsp quality extra virgin olive oil
1-2 tbsp red wine vinegar
Blocks of Greek feta cheese (do not crumble the feta, leave it in large pieces)
1/2 tbsp dried oregano

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

TRADITIONAL GREEK SALAD

Traditional Greek Salad image

This tart and crispy salad complements a variety of entrees, from casseroles and meats to pasta and pizza. "It's one of my favorite dishes," notes Valerie Belley from St. Louis, Missouri.

Provided by Taste of Home

Categories Lunch Side Dishes

Time 20m

Yield 12 servings.

Number Of Ingredients 12

Ingredients

1 medium head iceberg lettuce, torn
2 medium cucumbers, sliced
3 small tomatoes, cut into wedges
2 cans (2-1/4 ounces each) sliced ripe olives, drained
2 green onions, chopped
2 packages (4 ounces each) crumbled feta cheese
DRESSING:
1/4 cup olive oil
3 tablespoons red wine vinegar
1 teaspoon dried oregano
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/8 teaspoon pepper

Steps:

In a large salad bowl, combine the lettuce, cucumbers, tomatoes, olives, onions and feta cheese. In a small bowl, whisk the dressing ingredients. Drizzle over salad and toss to coat.

Nutrition Facts : Calories 119 calories, Fat 9g fat (3g saturated fat), Cholesterol 10mg cholesterol, Sodium 380mg sodium, Carbohydrate 5g carbohydrate (2g sugars, Fiber 3g fiber), Protein 5g protein. Diabetic Exchanges

GREEK SALAD, THE BEST!

Greek Salad, The Best! image

This salad has remained a favorite in our house for many years. I make it often for special occasions and receive rave reviews all around; you will too when you serve this wonderful Greek salad!

Provided by Carol Amos

Categories Salad Vegetable Salad Recipes

Time 30m

Yield 8

Number Of Ingredients 15

Ingredients

1 cup olive oil
3 tablespoons red wine vinegar
3 tablespoons grated Parmesan cheese
2 tablespoons lemon juice
2 tablespoons finely chopped garlic
2 tablespoons dried oregano, or to taste
1 ½ teaspoons dried basil
1 teaspoon salt, or to taste
freshly ground black pepper to taste
2 heads romaine lettuce, chopped
2 large tomatoes, cut into wedges
1 large cucumber, cut into matchsticks
1 red onion, sliced
1 cup black olives
½ pound feta cheese, crumbled

Steps:

Blend olive oil, vinegar, Parmesan cheese, lemon juice, garlic, oregano, basil, salt, and black pepper together in a food processor until smooth.
Combine romaine lettuce, tomatoes, cucumber, red onion, black olives, and feta cheese together in large bowl. Drizzle dressing over vegetable mixture; toss to coat.

Nutrition Facts : Calories 384.7 calories, Carbohydrate 11.8 g, Cholesterol 26.7 mg, Fat 36 g, Fiber 3.9 g, Protein 7 g, SaturatedFat 8.6 g, Sodium 799.8 mg, Sugar 4.7 g

Tips:

Use fresh, ripe ingredients. This will ensure that your salad is packed with flavor.
Cut your vegetables into uniform pieces. This will help them cook evenly.
Don't overdress your salad. A little bit of dressing goes a long way.
Let your salad rest for a few minutes before serving. This will allow the flavors to meld together.

Conclusion:

A Greek salad is a refreshing and healthy dish that is perfect for any occasion. It is easy to make and can be tailored to your own taste preferences. Whether you like your salad simple or loaded with toppings, there is a Greek salad recipe out there for you. So next time you are looking for a light and flavorful meal, give Greek salad a try. You won't be disappointed!