I try to buy most of my meat from the local butcher shop. Their store is located on a huge family farm and they provide high quality grass-fed beef, pork and chicken. Last week, I went to the store to buy beef shank to make soup. It has been raining most of the week, so I thought of making soup with onions, potatoes and lots of cabbage. They also sell marinated beef and chicken. Among these marinated meats, they had souvlaki chicken breasts. My family and I are huge fans of Greek food, so I decided to buy the chicken with the intention of recreating my favorite food to order at a Greek restaurant. To recreate the souvlaki dinner, I decided to make this simple Greek salad to go with the chicken souvlaki.

I like this Greek salad recipe for its simple fresh ingredients. It consists of all my favorites: cucumbers, red onions, bell peppers, cherry tomatoes and feta cheese. Also, the dressing is very simple. It is made with olive oil, lemon juice, oregano, salt and pepper. My family and I enjoyed this Greek salad with the chicken souvlaki and homemade mint cucumber raita sauce. Enjoy.

Frequently Asked Questions

What can I use instead of feta cheese?

If you’re not a fan of feta, try using goat cheese or even a dairy-free cheese alternative. Just keep in mind that the flavor will change a bit, but it can still be delicious.

How do I store leftover Greek salad?

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge. It should stay fresh for about 2-3 days, but the veggies may get a bit soggy over time.

Can I make this salad ahead of time?

You can prep all the veggies and the dressing separately a day in advance. Just combine them right before serving to keep everything crisp and fresh.

What can I serve with Greek salad?

Greek salad pairs perfectly with grilled meats like chicken souvlaki or lamb. It’s also great as a side dish for any Mediterranean-inspired meal.

What are common mistakes when making Greek salad?

One common mistake is chopping the veggies too small, which can make them mushy. Also, adding the dressing too early can lead to a soggy salad, so wait until just before serving.

Greek Salad

Liza Agbanlog

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Prep Time 10

Cook Time 1

Total Time 10

Course Salad

Servings servings

Ingredients

1/2 medium English cucumber diced
1 small red onion diced
1 green bell pepper diced
1 cup halved cherry or grape tomatoes
½ cup crumbled feta cheese

Dressing:

6 tbsp olive oil
2 tbsp lemon juice
1 tsp dried oregano
Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste

Instructions

In a salad bowl, combine together cucumber, red onion, bell pepper and tomatoes. Set aside.
In a medium bowl, whisk together olive oil, lemon juice and oregano. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Pour dressing over the tomato mixture, toss well and sprinkle with feta cheese.
Serve with your favorite meat or fish.

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Choosing the Right Ingredients

Selecting the freshest ingredients is key to a great Greek salad. Look for firm cucumbers with a vibrant green color and smooth skin. For tomatoes, go for cherry or grape varieties; they should be plump and juicy. When it comes to onions, red onions add a nice sweetness, but if you prefer a milder flavor, try using green onions or even shallots. Feta cheese should be crumbly and creamy, so consider buying it from a deli or specialty store for the best quality. If you have access to local farmers’ markets, that can be a goldmine for fresh produce. The fresher your ingredients, the more vibrant and delicious your salad will be. Avoid pre-packaged salads, as these often contain preservatives and may lack the freshness you want.

Variations to Try

Greek salad is wonderfully versatile, so don’t hesitate to mix things up. For a heartier version, consider adding grilled chicken, shrimp, or even chickpeas for some protein. If you want more crunch, toss in some radishes or carrots. For a Mediterranean twist, add olives or artichoke hearts. Want to spice things up? A sprinkle of crushed red pepper flakes can add a nice kick. For a touch of sweetness, try adding diced avocado or a handful of arugula. Remember, the beauty of a Greek salad lies in its flexibility, so feel free to use what you have on hand. Just keep the core ingredients intact for that classic flavor, and let your creativity shine.