Greek salad

Fresh Greek Salad: An Explosion of Flavor and Taste

Preparation time: 15 minutes
Total time: 15 minutes
Servings: 4

Who doesn't love a fresh salad, full of colors and flavors? Today, I will present you with a delicious Greek salad recipe that is not only easy to prepare but also brings a touch of sunshine to your table. This salad is perfect for warm summer days, but can be enjoyed in any season. The combination of fresh vegetables and cheese will delight your senses, and the simple yet tasty dressing will turn every bite into a memorable experience.

History of Greek Salad

Greek salad, also known as "Horiatiki," has deep roots in Mediterranean culture. It reflects the richness and diversity of local ingredients, using fresh vegetables, feta cheese, and extra virgin olive oil. In Greek tradition, the salad is often served as an appetizer but can also be a delicious main dish, alongside a slice of fresh bread or olives.

Ingredients

- 5 ripe tomatoes (approximately 500 g)
- 2 small cucumbers
- 2 small red onions
- 50 g feta cheese
- 3-4 tablespoons of extra virgin olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 teaspoon of dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon of fresh dried basil (optional)

Preparation: Step by Step

1. Prepare the ingredients: Start by washing the vegetables well. It is important to use fresh, quality ingredients, as they are the base of the salad. The tomatoes should be ripe and juicy, and the cucumbers should be crunchy.

2. Cutting the vegetables: Cut the tomatoes into cubes of about 2 cm. The cucumbers can be sliced thinly or cubed, depending on your preference. The onion should be sliced julienne, meaning into thin strips, to blend perfectly with the other ingredients.

3. Assemble the salad: In a large bowl, add the tomatoes, cucumbers, and onion. Gently mix to avoid crushing the tomatoes.

4. Add the cheese: Cut the feta cheese into small cubes or crumble it, then add it to the bowl. Feta cheese adds a creamy and salty note that perfectly complements the salad.

5. Prepare the dressing: In a small bowl, combine the olive oil, oregano, basil, salt, and pepper. Mix well to combine the flavors. Extra virgin olive oil adds depth of flavor, while the dried herbs provide a Mediterranean aroma.

6. Finalize the salad: Pour the dressing over the salad and gently mix to evenly coat all the ingredients. The Greek salad should be served immediately to maintain the freshness of the vegetables.

7. Serving: The salad is served fresh, ideally alongside homemade bread or as a side dish to a meat grill.

Practical Tips

- Choose quality ingredients: Using ripe tomatoes and authentic feta cheese will make a big difference in the final taste of the salad.
- Vegetable varieties: You can add Kalamata olives for an extra burst of flavor or bell peppers for added texture.
- The dressing: You can experiment with the dressing by adding lemon juice or balsamic vinegar for a tangy note.
- Storage: If there is leftover salad, keep it in an airtight container in the fridge, but consume it within 24 hours to maintain freshness.

Calories and Nutritional Benefits

This Greek salad has approximately 200 calories per serving, being rich in vitamins and minerals. Tomatoes are excellent for heart health, while cucumbers are hydrating and low in calories. Feta cheese provides protein and calcium, making this salad not only tasty but also nutritious.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I use other types of cheese?
Yes, you can use goat cheese or mozzarella for a different variation.

2. Is this salad vegan?
No, as it contains feta cheese. You can omit the cheese or use a vegan substitute.

3. How can I make the salad more substantial?
Add cooked chickpeas or quinoa to turn this salad into a main dish.

4. What can I pair the Greek salad with?
Greek salad pairs perfectly with grilled dishes, fish, or chicken. It is also delicious alongside a refreshing drink, such as a dry white wine or lemonade.

Personal Story

This salad reminds me of vacations spent in nature, where outdoor meals were filled with Mediterranean delights. I remember how my grandmother prepared Greek salad every summer, and the aroma of olive oil and fresh herbs filled the entire house. I hope this recipe brings the same moments of joy and flavor to your home.

So, don't wait any longer! Put on your apron and let's prepare a delicious, vibrant Greek salad together! Enjoy your meal!