Sometimes the best meals are the simplest. This Fresh Greek Salad Recipe (Horiatiki) is a vibrant, nutrient-packed dish that brings the flavors of the Mediterranean straight to your table. Unlike Americanized versions that are heavy on lettuce, a traditional Greek salad is a robust mix of chunky vegetables and block feta cheese, dressed simply with high-quality olive oil and oregano.
It is crisp, refreshing, and incredibly healthy, making it a perfect dinner idea for warm evenings or as a side to a heavier main course. With no cooking required, you can have a gourmet-tasting, heart-healthy meal ready in under 15 minutes.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Authentic Flavor
This recipe skips the fillers and focuses on the good stuff: ripe tomatoes, crunchy cucumbers, and creamy, salty feta. It’s a texture lover’s dream.
Nutrient Dense
Packed with vitamins, fiber, and healthy fats from the olives and oil, this salad leaves you feeling energized, not weighed down. If you want to turn this into a feast, serve it alongside these Smashburger Quesadillas for a fun fusion dinner night.
Ingredients
- 4 large tomatoes, cut into wedges
- 1 large English cucumber, sliced
- 1 small red onion, sliced
- 1 medium green bell pepper, sliced
- 1/2 cup Kalamata olives
- 1 block feta cheese (7oz)
- 1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil
- 1 tsp dried oregano
Instructions
- Chop all vegetables and place in a large bowl.
- Add olives and toss gently.
- Top with the block of feta cheese.
- Drizzle with olive oil and sprinkle with oregano.
- Serve immediately.
Ingredient Highlights & Substitutions
Essential Ingredients
Ripe Tomatoes (Campari or vine-ripened are best). English Cucumber (for crunch without bitterness). Red Onion. Green Bell Pepper. Kalamata Olives. Block Feta Cheese (sheep’s milk is traditional). Extra Virgin Olive Oil. Dried Oregano.
Smart Substitutions
If raw onion is too sharp, soak the slices in ice water for 10 minutes before adding. You can crumble the feta if you prefer, but the slab is authentic. Fresh dill is a nice addition if you have it.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Prep Phase
Wash all vegetables. Cut tomatoes into wedges. Slice cucumber into rounds or half-moons. Slice onion and green pepper into rings or strips. Drain olives.
Assembly Phase
In a large bowl, combine the tomatoes, cucumber, pepper, onion, and olives. Toss gently. Place the large slab of feta cheese right on top. Drizzle everything generously with olive oil and a splash of red wine vinegar. Sprinkle dried oregano over the cheese and veggies. Season with a pinch of sea salt. Serve immediately with crusty bread to soak up the juices.
Pro Tips for Perfect Results
Technique Secrets
Serve at room temperature. Cold tomatoes lose their flavor. Let the salad sit for 10 minutes before serving so the juices mingle.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Using low-fat dressing. The olive oil is the dressing and provides the necessary richness to balance the acidity of the tomatoes.
Serving Ideas & Pairings
Presentation & Plating
Use a shallow white bowl to make the colors pop.
Pairing Suggestions
Grilled chicken, lamb chops, or fish.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q1? Is it vegan?
It is if you use plant-based feta.
Q2? Can I add lettuce?
You can, but it becomes a standard garden salad, not a Horiatiki.
Q3? How long does it keep?
Best eaten fresh, but leftovers can be stored for 24 hours (veggies will soften).
| Nutrient | Amount per Serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | 280 kcal |
| Total Fat | 22g |
| Saturated Fat | 8g |
| Cholesterol | 40mg |
| Sodium | 650mg |
| Carbohydrates | 12g |
| Dietary Fiber | 3g |
| Protein | 8g |
Conclusion
This Fresh Greek Salad Recipe is the epitome of healthy eating. It proves that with fresh ingredients, you don’t need complicated cooking techniques to create a delicious dinner.
