Greek Salad Recipe (Horiatiki Salata)

  Greek Salad Recipe (Horiatiki Salata)

Greek Salad Recipe (Horiatiki Salata) 

Prep Time: 15–20 minutes
Cook Time: None
Total Time: 15–20 minutes
Servings: 4–6
Difficulty: Very Easy

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🧾 Ingredients:

Fresh Vegetables:

• 2 cups cherry or grape tomatoes, halved (or 2 large ripe tomatoes, chopped)

• 1 large cucumber (or 2 Persian cucumbers), sliced into thick half-moons

• 1 medium red onion, thinly sliced

• 1 red bell pepper, chopped into bite-size pieces

• ¾ cup black olives (preferably Kalamata, pitted)

Cheese:

• 200g (about 7 oz) Greek feta cheese, cut into cubes or crumbled

Dressing:

• ⅓ cup extra virgin olive oil

• 1 tablespoon red wine vinegar or freshly squeezed lemon juice

• 1 teaspoon dried oregano

• ½ teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)

• ¼ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper

Optional:

• Fresh oregano or parsley for garnish

• A pinch of dried thyme or sumac (optional twist)

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🔪 Preparation Steps:

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🥒 Step 1: Prepare the Vegetables

1. Wash all vegetables thoroughly under running water and pat them dry.

2. Tomatoes:

   • Use cherry or grape tomatoes for sweetness and visual appeal.

   • Cut each tomato in half. If using large tomatoes, chop them into medium chunks.

3. Cucumber:

   • Peel partially or leave the skin on for extra fiber and crunch.

   • Slice into thick rounds or half-moons.

4. Red Onion:

   • Peel and cut in half.

   • Slice into very thin strips. If the onion is too sharp, soak it in cold water for 10 minutes, then drain. This reduces the pungency.

5. Bell Pepper:

   • Remove seeds and white parts.

   • Cut into strips or bite-size cubes.

6. Olives:

   • Use whole or pitted black olives. Kalamata olives are most authentic, but any black olive works.

📝 Tip: Try to keep vegetable sizes consistent for an even bite and appealing look.

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🧀 Step 2: Prepare the Feta Cheese

1. Cut the feta cheese into 1-inch cubes for a traditional presentation, or crumble it by hand if you prefer a rustic texture.

2. Use authentic Greek feta made from sheep’s milk for best taste and creaminess.

3. Set the feta aside until ready to toss.

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🧂 Step 3: Make the Dressing

1. In a small bowl or jar, whisk together:

   • ⅓ cup extra virgin olive oil

   • 1 tablespoon red wine vinegar or lemon juice

   • 1 teaspoon dried oregano

   • Salt and black pepper to taste

2. Mix well until the dressing is slightly emulsified (oil and vinegar combined).

3. Taste and adjust the acidity or salt level if needed.

🧴 Optional: Add ½ teaspoon of Dijon mustard or 1 minced garlic clove for extra flavor.

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🥗 Step 4: Assemble the Salad

1. In a large serving bowl, combine:

   • Sliced tomatoes

   • Cucumbers

   • Bell peppers

   • Red onion

   • Black olives

2. Gently toss the vegetables to mix evenly.

3. Add the feta cheese cubes on top (or gently fold in if crumbled).

4. Drizzle the dressing over the entire salad evenly.

5. Optionally, sprinkle a little more oregano or fresh parsley on top.

🌿 Optional garnish: a few fresh oregano leaves or a pinch of dried thyme.

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🍽️ Step 5: Serve the Salad

• Serve immediately for the freshest flavor and texture.

• Pair with crusty bread, grilled meats, roasted vegetables, or pita.

• Excellent as a starter, a side dish, or even a light meal on its own.

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🥄 Pro Tips:

• Do not chill too long: Greek salad is best enjoyed fresh. If preparing in advance, mix the dressing just before serving.

• Avoid watery salad: Salt the cucumbers and tomatoes only right before serving to prevent water release.

• Balance is key: Too much vinegar or feta can overpower. Keep it balanced and fresh.

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🔁 Variations & Customizations:

1. Additions:

   • Avocado for creaminess

   • Capers for tang

   • Sliced radish for a peppery crunch

   • Chopped romaine lettuce if you want a bulkier salad (though not traditional)

2. Vegan Version:

   • Omit feta or use vegan feta-style cheese.

   • Add chickpeas or white beans for protein.

3. Protein Boost:

   • Add grilled chicken, tuna, or shrimp to turn this into a full meal.

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📦 Storage Instructions:

• If you need to store leftovers:

  • Place in an airtight container.

  • Store for up to 24 hours in the fridge.

  • Do not freeze.

• Keep the dressing separate if prepping in advance.

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🧠 Fun Facts about Greek Salad:

• "Horiatiki" means "village-style" in Greek. The salad reflects simple, rustic ingredients commonly found in traditional Greek kitchens.

• Greek salad typically does not include lettuce – that's a Western adaptation.

• Feta cheese is often served as a solid block in Greece, rather than crumbled.

• Olive oil used in Greek cuisine is usually extra virgin, cold-pressed, and of very high quality.

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❤️ Why You’ll Love This Greek Salad:

• 🌱 Fresh & Healthy – Full of raw veggies and heart-healthy olive oil.

• 🧀 Creamy & Savory – Feta cheese brings saltiness and richness.

• 🍅 Colorful & Crisp – A feast for the eyes and the palate.

• 🕒 Quick to Make – No cooking required, ready in under 20 minutes.

• 🧂 Naturally Gluten-Free & Low Carb