A vibrant and refreshing Greek salad packed with crisp cucumbers, juicy cherry tomatoes, red onions, a mix of olives, and thick cubes of creamy feta cheese. Finished with a drizzle of olive oil and a sprinkle of oregano—simple, clean, and Mediterranean at its best.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

The Classic Greek Salad Bowl offers a perfect blend of bold, fresh flavors and satisfying textures. It’s a naturally healthy, low-carb, and gluten-free dish that’s quick to assemble and versatile enough to serve as a main course, side salad, or light lunch. The combination of briny olives, sweet tomatoes, tangy red onion, and creamy feta is timeless. With no cooking required and minimal ingredients, it’s an excellent choice for warm weather meals or busy weeknights.

Ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
1 cup cucumber, sliced
1/4 red onion, thinly sliced
1/2 cup green olives
1/2 cup kalamata olives
3/4 cup feta cheese, cut into cubes
2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley (optional)

Directions

1. Arrange the cherry tomatoes, cucumber slices, red onion, green olives, and kalamata olives in a bowl.
2. Gently top with cubed feta cheese.
3. Drizzle with extra virgin olive oil and sprinkle with dried oregano, salt, and pepper.
4. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley, if using.
5. Serve immediately with warm pita bread or crusty bread on the side.

Servings and timing

This recipe serves 2 as a main dish or 4 as a side.
Preparation time: 10 minutes
Cooking time: 0 minutes
Total time: 10 minutes

Variations

• Add protein: Include grilled chicken, shrimp, or chickpeas for a more filling meal.
• Use different cheese: Substitute feta with goat cheese or halloumi for a twist.
• Add greens: Toss in arugula, spinach, or romaine lettuce for extra volume.
• Incorporate grains: Serve over quinoa or farro for a heartier salad.
• Spice it up: Add sliced pepperoncini or a pinch of chili flakes for a kick.
• Make it vegan: Omit the feta or use a dairy-free cheese alternative.

Storage/reheating

This salad is best enjoyed fresh, but you can store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. To prevent the feta from becoming too soft or the vegetables soggy, consider storing the dressing separately and combining just before serving. Reheating is not recommended, as the salad is meant to be served cold or at room temperature.

FAQs

Can I make Greek salad in advance?

Yes, but for the best texture, store the dressing and feta separately and mix just before serving.

What type of cucumber should I use?

Persian or English cucumbers work best as they are crisp and have fewer seeds.

Can I use bottled dressing?

While homemade olive oil and oregano offer the best flavor, you can use bottled Greek dressing in a pinch.

Is feta cheese necessary?

Feta is traditional, but you can substitute with goat cheese or omit it for a dairy-free option.

What’s the difference between green and kalamata olives?

Green olives are firmer and more briny, while kalamata olives are softer and have a more robust, fruity flavor.

Can I add lettuce?

Yes, though traditional Greek salad doesn’t include lettuce, adding greens makes it more of a mixed salad.

Is this salad low-carb?

Yes, it’s naturally low in carbohydrates and suitable for low-carb or keto-friendly diets.

How do I keep the onions from being too sharp?

Soak sliced red onions in cold water for 10 minutes before adding them to mellow their flavor.

What can I serve with Greek salad?

Serve it alongside grilled meats, roasted vegetables, or fresh pita and hummus.

Can I use cherry tomatoes instead of full-size?

Yes, cherry tomatoes are ideal for this salad due to their sweetness and bite-sized shape.

Conclusion

The Classic Greek Salad Bowl is a staple of Mediterranean cuisine for good reason—it’s healthy, colorful, and full of flavor. With simple ingredients and no cooking required, it’s an effortless way to enjoy fresh vegetables and bold seasoning. Whether served on its own or paired with your favorite protein, this salad brings a refreshing taste of Greece to your table any day of the week.

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