What ingredients are in a traditional Greek salad?

A traditional Greek salad typically includes tomatoes, cucumbers, red onions, Kalamata olives, feta cheese, and a simple olive oil-based vinaigrette. Some versions may include romaine lettuce, although authentic versions often skip the greens.

Can I make Greek salad ahead of time?

Yes. You can prep all ingredients in advance and store them separately. Add the dressing and feta just before serving to maintain freshness and prevent sogginess.

Is Greek salad healthy?

Greek salad is very healthy. It's low in carbs, high in fiber, packed with antioxidants, and offers healthy fats from olives and olive oil. Feta adds calcium and protein as well.

What kind of olives should I use in Greek salad?

Kalamata olives are the traditional choice for Greek salad. They are dark purple, briny, and offer a distinct flavor that complements the salad's other ingredients.

Can I use bottled dressing for Greek salad?

Yes, but a homemade vinaigrette made with olive oil, vinegar, oregano, and garlic will offer fresher flavor and fewer preservatives. It only takes a minute to mix up!

Greek Salad With Feta And Olives Recipe

Looking for a light, fresh, and flavorful salad that never gets old? This Greek Salad with Feta and Olives is a Mediterranean classic that bursts with bright vegetables, creamy feta, and briny Kalamata olives—all brought together with a simple homemade vinaigrette.

It’s perfect as a side for grilled meats, a main course on hot summer days, or part of a fresh and healthy meal prep routine. No lettuce is required (but we include it here for volume and crunch), and the ingredients are budget-friendly and easy to find!

Table of Contents

🥗 Ingredients

4 cups chopped romaine or mixed greens (optional base)
1 cup grape tomatoes, halved
1 cup sliced cucumber
1/3 cup red onion, thinly sliced
1/2 cup Kalamata olives (pitted)
3/4 cup crumbled feta cheese

For the Homemade Greek Vinaigrette:

1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil
2 tablespoons red wine vinegar
1 teaspoon dried oregano
1/2 teaspoon Dijon mustard
1 garlic clove, finely minced
Salt & black pepper to taste

🥣 Instructions

In a small bowl or mason jar, whisk together all dressing ingredients until well combined. Taste and adjust salt or vinegar as needed.
In a large salad bowl, add chopped lettuce (if using), tomatoes, cucumbers, red onions, and olives.
Sprinkle crumbled feta cheese over the top.
Drizzle the dressing over the salad and toss gently to combine. Serve immediately.

💡 Tips for the Perfect Greek Salad

Use block feta in brine for the creamiest, most authentic texture and flavor.
Soak red onions in cold water for 5–10 minutes to mellow their sharpness.
Add fresh herbs like dill or parsley for an extra pop of flavor.

🍴 Make It a Meal

This Greek Salad can easily be upgraded to a full meal:

Add grilled chicken or shrimp for extra protein.
Serve with warm pita bread or naan and a side of hummus.
Top with quinoa or orzo to turn it into a grain bowl.

🛒 Budget Tip

Buy feta in bulk or choose store-brand for cost savings. Look for Kalamata olives in jars or at the olive bar (if on sale). Cucumber and tomatoes are cheapest in season—grab local when possible!

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A Greek Classic That’s Always in Season

There’s a reason the Greek Salad has stood the test of time—it’s crisp, refreshing, colorful, and effortlessly healthy. Whether served as a light lunch or a robust side dish at dinner, it offers the perfect balance of fresh vegetables, creamy cheese, and zesty vinaigrette. It’s a dish that shines with simple, quality ingredients—no fancy gadgets or expensive imports required.

Unlike many salads that rely heavily on dressings or croutons for flavor, Greek salad gets its wow factor from bold ingredients like briny Kalamata olives, vine-ripened tomatoes, and crumbly feta. These core Mediterranean components provide powerful flavor without sacrificing nutritional value.

And the best part? It comes together in 10 minutes flat. Minimal prep, maximum reward.

🥒 Ingredient Deep Dive

Cucumbers: Offer hydrating crunch and are a staple in Greek cuisine. English cucumbers are ideal for fewer seeds and a tender bite.

Tomatoes: Cherry or grape tomatoes are sweet and juicy, but Roma tomatoes work well too—especially when in season.

Red onion: A key ingredient for flavor contrast. Soaking slices in cold water for 5–10 minutes reduces their sharp bite.

Kalamata olives: These dark purple olives bring a salty, tangy punch to every bite. Look for pitted options for convenience.

Feta cheese: Buy it in a block (preferably in brine) and crumble it yourself for the best taste and texture.

Dressing: A simple Greek vinaigrette of olive oil, red wine vinegar, Dijon mustard, garlic, and oregano makes this salad shine.

🧠 Nutritional Benefits

This salad is more than a pretty plate—it’s packed with health perks:

Antioxidants from tomatoes and olives
Healthy fats from olive oil and feta
Fiber from cucumbers and greens
Calcium from feta cheese
Low in carbs, making it keto- and diabetic-friendly

Add grilled chicken or tofu and you’ve got a full macro-balanced meal.

🔁 Variations to Try

Greek salad is endlessly customizable. Try these ideas to mix it up:

Add grains like quinoa, bulgur, or orzo to make a Greek grain bowl
Top with protein like grilled lamb, gyro meat, or chickpeas
Include extras like capers, roasted red peppers, or artichoke hearts
Swap greens: Use arugula or baby spinach for a peppery bite

🛒 Smart Savings Tip

Feta and olives might seem like splurge items, but they go a long way. One small container of olives or a block of feta can stretch across 3–4 salads. Look for multi-pack cucumbers, budget-friendly greens, and bulk feta at warehouse stores or international markets for the best deals.

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Greek Salad with Feta and Olives Recipe