Traditional Greek salad consists of veggies like juicy tomatoes, crisp cucumber, bell pepper, and red onions tossed in an herby vinaigrette with feta cheese and olives. The pieces are left large and no other ingredients are added; traditional Greek salad does not contain lettuce. Of course, if you’ve ever seen it on a restaurant menu (haven’t we all?), you know there are many types of Greek salads and the definition is subject to interpretation.
I’ve seen all manners of Mediterranean-inspired additions like greens, artichokes, crushed-up pita chips, and even pimento peppers.Protein like chicken and chickpeas are other popular additions (just like in Mediterranean Chickpea Salad).
How to Make Greek Salad
Today’s easy Greek salad recipe is my favorite version. The ingredients are mostly traditional, with two deviations:
Romaine. I like my Greek salad ingredients with lettuce, there I said it. Call it “Mediterranean Greek salad” instead if you must.Capers. While optional, their brininess gives the salad an additional dimension of depth.
The Ingredients
Romaine. While not traditional, I love adding some romaine lettuce to my salad. It helps make it a little more satisfying, adds crunch, and gives the dressing something to cling to. Plus, romaine is packed with vitamins, fiber, and calcium. Red Onion. Adds a bite to the salad. Soak it in water first to take away a little of the harshness.Cucumber. Refreshing, crunchy, and hydrating.Tomatoes. Cherry or grape tomatoes add little bursts of sweetness that are essential to this Greek salad. Green Bell Pepper. Another fresh, crunchy element. Bell peppers are also a great source of vitamin C and iron. Kalamata Olives. A huge flavor component in Greek salad. Kalamata olives are deliciously salty and richly flavored. Capers. Another non-traditional addition that I love. Capers are salty, tangy, and have a slight lemon flavor. Feta. Large chunks of feta is the creamy addition that takes this salad to the next level and makes it a pleasure to eat.
Greek Salad Dressing. Classic Mediterranean ingredients like olive oil, red wine vinegar (or fresh lemon juice if you prefer), and garlic star in this simple, light dressing. It complements the salad ingredients without overpowering them.
The Directions
Storage Tips
To Store. Refrigerate leftover salad in an airtight container for up to 2 days.
Recommended Tools to Make this Recipe
Liquid Measuring Cup. You can measure and mix ingredients in this tool. Salad Spinner. Perfect for washing the romaine. Sharp Chef’s Knife. The tool you need to chop all the salad ingredients.
Greek salad, whether as a main or side dish, you are speaking my language!
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