A Greek Salad is a vibrant, refreshing dish that captures the essence of Mediterranean cuisine. Bursting with flavors from ripe tomatoes, crisp cucumbers, and tangy feta cheese, this salad is both satisfying and light. It's perfect for a quick lunch, a side dish at dinner, or a nutritious snack. The addition of Kalamata olives and a simple oregano-infused olive oil dressing gives this salad its authentic Greek taste. This recipe is straightforward, using fresh ingredients to create a colorful and flavorful dish that you'll want to make again and again.
Prepare the Vegetables. Start by chopping the tomatoes into bite-sized pieces. Slice the cucumber into rounds, and then slice the green bell pepper and red onion thinly. Place all the vegetables in a large salad bowl.
Add the Feta and Olives. Cube the feta cheese and add it to the salad. Toss in the Kalamata olives, ensuring they are pitted for easy eating.
Dress the Salad. Drizzle the extra virgin olive oil over the salad. Sprinkle with dried oregano, and season with salt and black pepper to taste.
Toss and Serve. Gently toss the salad to combine all the ingredients, being careful not to break up the feta cheese too much. Serve immediately for the freshest taste.
The olive oil in this recipe plays a crucial role in bringing out the flavors. Choose a high-quality, extra virgin olive oil for the best taste. For a more intense flavor, let the salad sit for about 15 minutes before serving. This allows the flavors to meld together. Feel free to add other ingredients like capers or a splash of red wine vinegar for a slight tang.