Imagine a salad that transports you straight to the sun-kissed shores of Greece, even in the middle of winter! This Classic Greek Winter Salad is not just a dish—it's a culinary journey that combines crisp vegetables, tangy feta, and a zesty dressing that will make your palate dance with joy. Whether you're looking to add a burst of Mediterranean freshness to your meal or impress your dinner guests with a simple yet sophisticated side, this recipe is your ultimate winter flavor escape!
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: -
Total Time: 15 mins
Cuisine: Greek
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 1 cup of chopped cucumbers
- 1 cup of cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1/2 cup of red onion, thinly sliced
- 1 cup of Kalamata olives
- 1 cup of feta cheese, crumbled
- 2 tablespoons of olive oil
- 1 tablespoon of red wine vinegar
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Begin by preparing all your ingredients. Wash the cucumbers and cherry tomatoes thoroughly under cold running water. Pat them dry with a clean kitchen towel.
- Chop the cucumbers into bite-sized pieces. If you prefer, you can peel them first, but leaving the skin on adds a nice crunch and color to the salad.
- Cut the cherry tomatoes in half. This will help release their juices and enhance the overall flavor of the salad.
- Next, take the red onion and slice it thinly. If you find the flavor of raw onion too strong, you can soak the slices in cold water for about 5 minutes to mellow the taste before adding them to the salad.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the chopped cucumbers, halved cherry tomatoes, thinly sliced red onion, Kalamata olives, and crumbled feta cheese. Gently toss the ingredients together to mix them evenly.
- In a small bowl or jar, whisk together the olive oil and red wine vinegar. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Adjust the seasoning according to your preference.
- Drizzle the dressing over the salad mixture and toss gently to ensure that all the ingredients are coated with the dressing.
- Let the salad sit for a few minutes to allow the flavors to meld together. This can be done while you set the table or prepare any additional dishes.
- Before serving, give the salad a final toss and taste to check for seasoning. Adjust if necessary.
- Serve the Classic Greek Winter Salad chilled or at room temperature. Enjoy it as a refreshing side dish or a light main course!
Tips
- Choose Fresh Ingredients: The key to an outstanding Greek salad is using the freshest vegetables possible. Look for firm cucumbers, ripe cherry tomatoes, and high-quality feta cheese.
- Olive Oil Matters: Use extra virgin olive oil for the most authentic and rich flavor. Greek olive oil is ideal if you can find it.
- Onion Prep Trick: To reduce the sharp bite of raw red onions, soak the sliced onions in cold water for 5-10 minutes before adding them to the salad.
- Let It Marinate: Allow the salad to sit for 10-15 minutes before serving. This helps the flavors meld and intensify.
- Serve at the Right Temperature: While this salad is delicious chilled, allowing it to come to room temperature can help the flavors fully develop.
- Optional Additions: For extra protein, consider adding grilled chicken or chickpeas. A sprinkle of dried oregano can also enhance the Mediterranean profile.
- Make Ahead: This salad can be prepared in advance and stored in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours, making it perfect for meal prep or entertaining.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 250kcal
Carbohydrates: 8g
Protein: 10g
Fat: 22g
Saturated Fat: 8g
Cholesterol: 35mg
