Classic Greek Salad, or Summer Salad, The Perfect BBQ or Picnic Side Dish
Introducing the Greek Salad, a traditional and healthy recipe that’s a must-try for your next family dinner or weeknight meal.
This easy recipe, often referred to as a “5 ingredient salad,” is not only a delightful vegetarian dish but also caters to those looking for low carb and keto options.
Featuring a vibrant mix of cucumber, grape tomatoes, red onion, Kalamata olives, and feta cheese, this Greek Salad is the epitome of a summer meal, perfect for a potluck, BBQ, or as a quick and easy recipe for busy schedules.
Why Greek Salad is a “Must-Try”
The Greek Salad stands out as a favorite vegetable medley, offering a blend of flavors and textures that are both refreshing and satisfying.
Here’s why it’s a great choice:
- Only 5 Ingredients: Simple yet delicious, made with minimal ingredients for maximum flavor.
- Low Carb and Keto: A healthy meal that fits perfectly into a keto meal plan.
- Budget Recipe: Economical ingredients make it a budget-friendly option.
- Minimal Prep Time: Quick and easy to prepare, making it ideal for a healthy side during busy days.
- Versatile: Serves as a fantastic vegetarian recipe, and with a few adjustments, can be a vegan side dish.
Greek Salad Ingredients
(See the recipe card below for full ingredient list with quantities & instructions)
For the Salad
- Cucumber: Fresh and crunchy, cucumbers form the refreshing base of the salad.
- Grape Tomatoes: Sweet and juicy, they add a vibrant pop of color and flavor.
- Red Onion: Thinly sliced for a sharp, yet sweet addition.
- Kalamata Olives: These Greek olives bring a unique, briny depth to the dish.
- Feta Cheese: Crumbly and tangy, feta adds a creamy texture and rich flavor.
- Seasonings: Salt and pepper to taste, enhancing the natural flavors of the ingredients.
For the Dressing:
- Red Wine Vinegar: Adds a tangy zest, crucial for the salad’s bright flavor.
- Lemon Juice: Freshly squeezed for a zesty kick.
- Dijon Mustard: Introduces a subtle sharpness.
- Garlic Cloves: Finely minced for a pungent aroma and taste.
- Dried Oregano: A staple in Greek cuisine, it adds earthy notes.
- Olive Oil: Rich and smooth, it binds the dressing together harmoniously.
Greek Salad Instructions
- Preparation: Begin by chopping the cucumber, grape tomatoes, and red onion. Crumble the feta cheese.
- Making the Dressing: Whisk together red wine vinegar, lemon juice, Dijon mustard, minced garlic cloves, dried oregano, and olive oil to create the homemade salad dressing.
- Combining the Salad: In a large bowl, mix the chopped vegetables with Kalamata olives. Toss with the dressing and season with salt and pepper.
- Serving: Garnish with crumbled feta cheese and serve as a refreshing side dish.
Perfect for Every Occasion
Whether it’s a holiday side dish, a summer meal prep, or a quick addition to your weeknight dinner, the Greek Salad is a healthy recipe that everyone will love.
Its versatility makes it suitable for both vegetarian and vegan recipes, and as a low calorie meal, it complements any diet plan, including keto.
Storage and Serving Suggestions
- Storage: Keep refrigerated in an airtight container. Best enjoyed within a day for maximum freshness.
- Serving: Ideal as a side dish for family dinners, potlucks, or as part of your healthy meals lineup.
What to serve with this Greek salad
With its explosion of flavors, these classic mediterranean salad pairs well with a variety of dishes.
Baked Paprika Chicken
Dump and Baked Meatball Casserole
Mexican Cornbread Casserole
Chicken Breast in Garlic Sauce
FAQ Section
Can this Greek Salad be prepared as a make-ahead dish for meal prep?
Yes, you can prepare this Greek Salad in advance, making it a convenient option for summer meal prep. However, for the best texture and freshness, it’s recommended to add the dressing and feta cheese just before serving.
Can Greek Salad Be Served as a Main Dish?
Yes, Greek Salad can be served as a main dish, especially when you add a protein source like grilled chicken, fish, or legumes. It’s a versatile dish that can be easily adjusted to suit your dietary needs and preferences.
Other Easy Salads to Try!
Cucumber Salad
Tomato with Mozzarella Salad
Greek Salad Recipe
Enjoy the freshness of our Greek Salad recipe, an easy and healthy choice for everyone. it's perfect for a quick, delicious meal or side dish. This salad is great for a family dinner or a picnic treat.
Ingredients
SALAD INGREDIENTS
- 1 pint grape tomatoes, halved
- 1 large cucumber, diced
- ½ red onion, thinly sliced
- ½ cup Kalamata olives, halved
- 4 ounces feta cheese, cubed
- salt and pepper, to taste
GREEK SALAD DRESSING
- ⅓ cup red wine vinegar
- 1 lemon, juiced
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- ½ teaspoon dried oregano
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
Instructions
- Preparation: Begin by chopping the cucumber, grape tomatoes, and red onion. Crumble the feta cheese.
- Making the Dressing: Whisk together red wine vinegar, lemon juice, Dijon mustard, minced garlic cloves, dried oregano, and olive oil to create the homemade salad dressing.
- Combining the Salad: In a large bowl, mix the chopped vegetables with Kalamata olives. Toss with the dressing and season with salt and pepper.
- Serving: Garnish with crumbled feta cheese and serve as a refreshing side dish.
Nutrition Information
Yield
4Serving Size
1Amount Per Serving Calories 68Total Fat 4gSaturated Fat 1gTrans Fat 0gUnsaturated Fat 3gCholesterol 0mgSodium 350mgCarbohydrates 7gFiber 2gSugar 3gProtein 1g