Greek salad

Greek Salad: a simple, quick, and delicious recipe

Preparation time: 15 minutes
Total time: 15 minutes
Number of servings: 4

Who doesn't love a fresh salad, full of flavors and colors? Greek salad is an iconic dish that brings together fresh garden ingredients in a delicious and healthy combination. This salad is not only a perfect accompaniment to any meal but can also be a light main course, ideal for warm days.

The history of this salad takes us back to ancient times when people enjoyed the fruits of the earth, combining fresh vegetables with cheese and olive oil, staple ingredients in the Mediterranean diet. This recipe is not only simple to prepare but also rich in vitamins, minerals, and healthy fats, making it an excellent choice for a balanced diet.

Here’s how you can prepare a perfect Greek salad, step by step, with some useful tips to enhance your culinary experience.

Ingredients

- 2 large ripe tomatoes
- 1 medium cucumber
- 1 red onion
- 100 g green or black olives (preferably pitted)
- 200 g feta cheese
- 3-4 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
- Dried oregano, to taste
- Salt, to taste
- Optional: 1 bell pepper (preferably red or yellow)

Necessary utensils

- A sharp knife
- A cutting board
- A large salad bowl
- A mixing spoon

Step-by-step instructions

1. Preparing the vegetables: Start by washing all the vegetables thoroughly under cold running water. It is important to remove any impurities or pesticides. After washing, peel the cucumber if you prefer a smoother texture. If you find that the skin adds a pleasant taste, you can leave it on.

2. Cutting the vegetables: Cut the tomatoes into large cubes, the cucumber into round slices or cubes, and the red onion into thin slices. If you choose to use the bell pepper, cut it into small cubes. Combine all these vegetables in a large salad bowl.

3. Adding olives and cheese: Add the olives, either whole or halved, and the feta cheese, which you can crumble with your hands or cut into cubes. Feta cheese adds a salty and creamy flavor that perfectly complements the vegetables.

4. Seasoning the salad: Drizzle the salad with extra virgin olive oil, which enhances not only the taste but also the nutritional benefits. Add salt and oregano to taste. Oregano is an essential ingredient in Greek salad, providing an aromatic fragrance that enriches the dish.

5. Mixing the ingredients: Use a spoon to gently mix all the ingredients, being careful not to crumble the feta cheese too much. The salad is ready!

Serving suggestions

Greek salad can be served immediately, but it tastes even better if you let it sit in the refrigerator for 15-30 minutes for the flavors to meld. You can serve it alongside fresh bread, pita, or as a side dish for grilled meat. It is also a perfect accompaniment to baked fish or roasts.

Possible variations

To add extra flavor, you can experiment with ingredients such as:

- Avocado: for a creamy texture and healthy fats.
- Pickled cucumber: for a tangy note.
- Nuts or seeds: for a crunchy texture and additional nutrients.

Calories and nutritional benefits

This salad offers approximately 200-250 calories per serving, depending on the amount of feta cheese and olive oil used. It is rich in vitamins (A, C, K), minerals (potassium, calcium), and antioxidants due to the fresh vegetables. The healthy fats from olive oil and feta contribute to a healthy heart and can help maintain optimal cholesterol levels.

Frequently asked questions

1. Can I use other types of cheese?
Yes, you can use goat cheese or mozzarella, but the taste will be different. Feta gives the salad a unique character.

2. Can Greek salad be prepared in advance?
It is recommended to prepare it a few hours in advance, but avoid adding oil and salt until serving to prevent the vegetables from becoming soggy.

3. What drinks pair well with this salad?
A Greek salad pairs wonderfully with a refreshing white wine or mint tea, which will enhance the fresh flavors of the ingredients.

Now that you have all the necessary information, all that’s left is to start cooking! Whether you serve it as an appetizer or a main dish, Greek salad will bring a touch of joy to your table. Enjoy your meal!