Classic Greek Salad Recipe

Prep time: 15 minutes | Cook time: 0 minutes | Total time: 15 minutes | Servings: 4 side salads

Bright, crisp, and refreshing, this Classic Greek Salad is a celebration of vibrant Mediterranean flavors. Packed with juicy cherry tomatoes, crisp cucumbers, sharp red onion, briny olives, and creamy feta cheese, it is tossed in a simple herb-infused olive oil dressing.

If you are looking for a side dish that comes together in minutes yet bursts with bold, clean flavors, this Classic Greek Salad is the ultimate choice. Traditional Greek salads (known as horiatiki) skip the lettuce entirely, but this popular American-Mediterranean version incorporates crisp chopped romaine lettuce for extra body while keeping all the classic ingredients intact. Coated in a tangy extra virgin olive oil and red wine vinegar dressing, it pairs wonderfully with grilled chicken, fish, or lamb.

Ingredients

For the Salad:

• 1 head romaine lettuce, washed, dried, and chopped (optional, or use extra cucumbers)

• 2 large English cucumbers, sliced into half-moons

• 2 cups cherry tomatoes or plum tomatoes, halved

• 1/2 medium red onion, thinly sliced

• 1/2 cup Kalamata olives, pitted

• 1/2 cup green olives (such as Castelvetrano)

• 7 oz block authentic Greek feta cheese, sliced into cubes or left whole on top

For the Dressing:

• 1/3 cup extra-virgin olive oil

• 2 tablespoons red wine vinegar

• 1 teaspoon dried oregano

• 1 clove garlic, minced

• Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste

Instructions

Step 1: Prep and Chop the Fresh Vegetables

1. Wash all your fresh produce thoroughly. Chop the romaine lettuce into bite-sized pieces and place them into a large serving bowl.

2. Slice the English cucumbers into half-moons, cut the cherry tomatoes in half, and thinly slice the red onion.

3. Pro Tip: If you find raw red onions too pungent, soak the sliced onions in cold water for 10 minutes to mellow their bite before draining and adding them to the bowl.

Step 2: Whisk the Mediterranean Dressing

1. In a small glass jar or mixing bowl, combine the extra-virgin olive oil, red wine vinegar, minced garlic, dried oregano, salt, and black pepper.

2. Whisk vigorously or seal the jar tightly and shake until the ingredients are fully emulsified and the dressing is smooth.

Step 3: Combine the Salad Ingredients

1. Add the chopped cucumbers, halved cherry tomatoes, sliced red onions, Kalamata olives, and green olives into the large bowl with the romaine lettuce.

2. Pour about half of the prepared dressing over the vegetable mixture and toss gently until everything is evenly coated.

Step 4: Add the Feta and Serve

1. Place the blocks or cubes of authentic Greek feta cheese right on top of the tossed salad.

2. Drizzle the remaining dressing directly over the feta cheese.

3. Sprinkle an extra pinch of dried oregano and cracked black pepper over the top for garnish, and serve immediately.

Recipe Notes & Pro Tips

• Use Quality Olive Oil: Because this dressing has so few ingredients, using a high-quality extra-virgin olive oil makes a dramatic difference in the overall flavor.

• Feta Blocks vs. Crumbled: Buy a block of feta in brine rather than pre-crumbled cheese. It stays creamier, tastes fresher, and elevates the authentic presentation of your salad.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Can I make this salad ahead of time?

You can chop the vegetables and mix the dressing up to a day in advance, storing them in separate airtight containers in the refrigerator. However, do not toss the salad with salt and dressing until right before serving to keep the cucumbers and lettuce crisp.

Is this recipe naturally gluten-free?

Yes! This Classic Greek Salad is 100% naturally gluten-free, vegetarian, low-carb, and packed with healthy fats from the olives and olive oil.

Nutrition Facts (Per Serving)

• Calories: 245 kcal

• Protein: 6g

• Carbohydrates: 10g

• Fat: 21g

• Sodium: 480mg