Greek Salad, also known as Horiatiki Salad, is a classic dish that celebrates fresh, simple ingredients. It’s traditionally made without lettuce, focusing on the vibrant flavors of tomatoes, cucumbers, onions, olives, and feta cheese.
Ingredients:
- Vegetables:
- Tomatoes: 3 medium, cut into wedges
- Cucumbers: 1 large, sliced into half-moons
- Red onion: 1 small, thinly sliced
- Green bell pepper: 1 medium, thinly sliced
- Other essentials:
- Kalamata olives: 1/2 cup
- Feta cheese: 200g (block form is best, not crumbled)
- Seasoning:
- Dried oregano: 1 teaspoon
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper: To taste
- Dressing:
- Extra-virgin olive oil: 1/4 cup
- Red wine vinegar: 2 tablespoons
Instructions:
- Prepare the vegetables:
- Wash and chop the tomatoes, cucumbers, and bell pepper into bite-sized pieces.
- Peel and slice the red onion thinly.
- Assemble the salad:
- In a large salad bowl or platter, arrange the tomatoes, cucumbers, bell peppers, and red onions.
- Add the Kalamata olives on top.
- Add the feta:
- Place the block of feta cheese on top of the vegetables (keeping it whole is traditional).
- Season:
- Sprinkle dried oregano generously over the salad, including the feta.
- Add a pinch of salt (remember that the feta and olives are salty) and black pepper to taste.
- Dress the salad:
- Drizzle with olive oil and red wine vinegar evenly over the salad.
- Serve:
- Serve immediately with crusty bread or as a side to grilled meats, seafood, or other Greek dishes.
Optional Additions:
- Capers for extra brininess.
- A few sprigs of fresh oregano or parsley for garnish.
This refreshing and colorful salad embodies the simplicity and bold flavors of Greek cuisine. Enjoy!