This authentic Greek salad recipe (also known as Horiatiki) is the ultimate fresh and vibrant Mediterranean salad. Loaded with ripe tomatoes, crisp cucumbers, sweet red onions, green peppers, briny Kalamata olives, and a generous block of creamy feta cheese, it’s tossed in a simple olive oil and oregano dressing.
This classic Greek salad recipe is the best Greek salad recipe for summer dinners, BBQs, or as a light lunch. It’s naturally gluten-free, vegetarian, and ready in just 15 minutes — no cooking required!
As a home cook with 10+ years recreating Mediterranean favorites, this easy Greek salad recipe was personally tested 3–4 times to perfect the veggie ratios and tangy dressing. It’s the real deal — just like you’d find in a Greek taverna.
Prep and Cook Information
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Prep Time | 15 minutes |
| Cook Time | 0 minutes |
| Total Time | 15 minutes |
| Servings | 4–6 as a side |
| Calories per Serving | Approximately 180–220 kcal |
| Difficulty | Very Easy |
Ingredients for the Best Greek Salad Recipe
- 4–5 large ripe tomatoes (or 2 cups cherry tomatoes), cut into wedges
- 1 large English cucumber, sliced into half-moons
- 1 small red onion, thinly sliced
- 1 green bell pepper, sliced
- ½ cup Kalamata olives, pitted
- 1 large block (about 7–8 oz) Greek feta cheese (do not crumble in advance)
- ¼ cup extra virgin olive oil
- 2 tbsp red wine vinegar
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- ½ tsp sea salt (or to taste)
- Freshly cracked black pepper
Optional Add-ins:
- 1 tsp capers
- Fresh oregano leaves for garnish
Step-by-Step Instructions (Easy Greek Salad Recipe)
- Prep the vegetables: Wash and cut tomatoes into wedges or large chunks. Slice cucumber into half-moons and red onion thinly. Slice green pepper into rings or strips.
- Assemble the base: In a large serving bowl, gently combine the tomatoes, cucumber, red onion, and green pepper.
- Add olives: Scatter the Kalamata olives over the vegetables.
- Make the dressing: In a small bowl or directly over the salad, whisk together olive oil, red wine vinegar, oregano, salt, and black pepper.
- Dress the salad: Drizzle the dressing over the vegetables and toss very gently to combine.
- Add the feta: Place the whole block of feta cheese on top of the salad (traditional style — do not crumble it beforehand).
- Final touch: Sprinkle a little extra oregano and a drizzle of olive oil over the feta. Serve immediately.
- Serve: Enjoy as a side dish with grilled meats, pita bread, or as a light main course.
Popular Variations
- Chopped Greek Salad: Dice everything smaller for easier eating.
- Greek Salad with Chicken: Add grilled chicken strips for a protein-packed meal.
- No-Onion Version: Omit red onion if you prefer milder flavor.
- Vegan Greek Salad: Skip the feta or use vegan feta alternative.
Cooking Tips for the Best Authentic Greek Salad Recipe
- Use the ripest, juiciest tomatoes you can find — they make all the difference.
- Traditional Horiatiki never uses lettuce — it’s all about chunky vegetables.
- Always use a whole block of feta on top instead of crumbled feta for the classic presentation.
- Let the salad sit for 5 minutes after dressing so the flavors meld.
Storage Tips
- Best eaten fresh the same day.
- Refrigerate leftovers in an airtight container up to 1 day (the vegetables will soften slightly).
- Do not freeze.
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Conclusion
This authentic Greek salad recipe brings the bright, fresh flavors of the Mediterranean straight to your table. With juicy tomatoes, crisp cucumbers, tangy feta, and that signature oregano-kissed olive oil dressing, it’s the perfect easy, healthy side dish or light meal. Once you try the real Horiatiki style, you’ll never go back to ordinary salads!
FAQs
What is the difference between Greek salad and regular salad?
Authentic Greek salad (Horiatiki) has no lettuce — it features chunky tomatoes, cucumbers, onions, peppers, olives, and a block of feta.
Can I make Greek salad ahead of time?
Yes, prep the vegetables up to 4 hours ahead and add dressing and feta right before serving.
What kind of feta is best for Greek salad recipe?
Use real Greek feta made from sheep’s milk — it’s creamier and tangier than cow’s milk versions.
Is Greek salad healthy?
Extremely! It’s packed with fresh vegetables, healthy fats from olive oil, and protein from feta.
Can I add lettuce to this Greek salad recipe?
You can for a more American-style version, but traditional Horiatiki does not include it.
What oil is best for authentic Greek salad?
Extra virgin olive oil — preferably Greek for the most authentic flavor.
How long does homemade Greek salad last?
Best the same day; leftovers keep in the fridge up to 24 hours.
Is this Greek salad recipe gluten-free?
Yes — naturally gluten-free and vegetarian.
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