A crisp, refreshing Mediterranean salad featuring juicy tomatoes, crunchy cucumbers, bell peppers, briny olives, and creamy feta. Finished with a drizzle of olive oil and a sprinkle of oregano, this timeless favorite is bursting with fresh flavors and ideal for any meal.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This Classic Greek Salad is the epitome of fresh Mediterranean flavors. It’s light, vibrant, and full of texture, with crisp vegetables, briny olives, and creamy feta bringing it all together. The drizzle of extra virgin olive oil and the tang from red wine vinegar or lemon juice elevate the simple ingredients, making it a satisfying side or light main dish. Whether you’re enjoying it as part of a Mediterranean-inspired meal or as a healthy snack, this salad is sure to impress with its timeless simplicity and bold, refreshing flavors.
Ingredients
(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 cucumber, sliced
- 1/2 red onion, thinly sliced
- 1/2 yellow bell pepper, chopped
- 1/4 cup black olives (Kalamata preferred)
- 1/3 cup feta cheese, cut into cubes
- 1 cup crisp lettuce leaves (such as romaine or butter)
- 1 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
- 1 tsp red wine vinegar or lemon juice
- 1/2 tsp dried oregano
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
Directions
- In a large salad bowl, combine the cherry tomatoes, cucumber, red onion, bell pepper, olives, and lettuce.
- Add the feta cubes on top of the vegetables.
- Drizzle with olive oil and red wine vinegar (or lemon juice).
- Sprinkle with dried oregano, salt, and pepper.
- Toss gently to combine, and serve immediately.
Servings and timing
- Servings: 2
- Prep time: 10 minutes
- Cooking time: 0 minutes
- Total time: 10 minutes
- Calories: 160 kcal per serving
Variations
- Vegan: Omit the feta or substitute with a vegan cheese alternative or avocado for a creamy texture.
- Add protein: Add grilled chicken, chickpeas, or tuna to make this salad more filling.
- Extra veggies: Toss in some sliced radishes, olives, or cucumber ribbons for added crunch and flavor.
- Spicy twist: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a chopped fresh chili for some heat.
Storage/Reheating
This salad is best served fresh. If storing leftovers, keep the dressing and feta separate to maintain the crispness of the vegetables. The salad can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 1 day.
FAQs
Can I make this salad ahead of time?
You can prepare the vegetables ahead of time and store them in the fridge, but it’s best to add the dressing and feta just before serving to keep the salad fresh and crisp.
Is this salad gluten-free?
Yes, this Classic Greek Salad is naturally gluten-free.
Can I add other vegetables to this salad?
Yes! Feel free to add extra vegetables like tomatoes, cucumber, or even artichokes to make the salad more hearty.
Can I use another type of cheese instead of feta?
You can use other cheeses such as goat cheese or even a sharp cheddar, though it will change the flavor profile.
How long does this salad last in the fridge?
This salad will last for up to 1 day in the fridge, but it’s best enjoyed fresh.
Can I use a different type of olives?
While Kalamata olives are traditional, you can use any variety of black olives, green olives, or even a mix for a unique flavor.
Can I make this salad spicy?
Yes, you can add chili flakes, a dash of hot sauce, or fresh sliced chili to give it a spicy kick.
What can I use instead of red wine vinegar?
You can substitute red wine vinegar with white wine vinegar or lemon juice for a different acidic note.
Can I serve this salad as a main dish?
Absolutely! You can serve it as a light, healthy main dish or pair it with grilled meats for a more filling meal.
Is this salad good for meal prep?
Yes, this salad can be prepared ahead of time (except for the dressing and feta) and stored in the fridge for a couple of days. Just add the dressing before serving.
Conclusion
This Classic Greek Salad is a refreshing, healthy dish that’s perfect for warm days and easy meals. With its combination of juicy vegetables, creamy feta, and zesty dressing, it’s the ideal addition to any Mediterranean-inspired meal or as a satisfying standalone dish. Quick to prepare and full of fresh flavors, this salad is sure to become a favorite in your meal rotation.
Classic Greek Salad
A crisp, refreshing Mediterranean salad featuring juicy tomatoes, crunchy cucumbers, bell peppers, briny olives, and creamy feta. Finished with a drizzle of olive oil and a sprinkle of oregano, this timeless favorite is bursting with fresh flavors and ideal for any meal.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Total Time: 10 minutes
- Yield: 2 servings 1x
- Category: Salad
- Method: No-cook
- Cuisine: Mediterranean
- Diet: Vegetarian
Ingredients
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 cucumber, sliced
- 1/2 red onion, thinly sliced
- 1/2 yellow bell pepper, chopped
- 1/4 cup black olives (Kalamata preferred)
- 1/3 cup feta cheese, cut into cubes
- 1 cup crisp lettuce leaves (such as romaine or butter)
- 1 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
- 1 tsp red wine vinegar or lemon juice
- 1/2 tsp dried oregano
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
Instructions
- In a large salad bowl, combine cherry tomatoes, cucumber, red onion, bell pepper, olives, and lettuce.
- Add feta cubes on top.
- Drizzle with olive oil and red wine vinegar or lemon juice.
- Sprinkle with dried oregano, salt, and pepper.
- Toss gently and serve immediately.
Notes
- For a more filling meal, add grilled chicken or chickpeas.
- If you prefer a tangier flavor, use lemon juice instead of red wine vinegar.
- Feel free to adjust the amount of feta or olives to your taste.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 160 kcal
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 300mg
- Fat: 14g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 9g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 7g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 4g
- Cholesterol: 20mg