Greek Salad with Kalamata Olives

Greek Salad with Kalamata Olives is a classic Mediterranean dish that brings together crisp vegetables, tangy olives, and a light dressing to create a refreshing and wholesome meal or side dish. This salad is a celebration of fresh, vibrant ingredients and traditional Greek flavors, ideal for warm-weather dining or as an accompaniment to grilled meats and seafood.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Greek Salad with Kalamata Olives is incredibly easy to prepare and does not require any cooking. It highlights simple, wholesome ingredients that are not only healthy but also flavorful. The salty bite of kalamata olives, the freshness of vegetables, and the light vinaigrette make it a satisfying and versatile dish. Whether you are serving it at a dinner party or enjoying it as a light lunch, it is sure to impress.

ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

• Kalamata olives, pitted and halved

• Cucumber, sliced

• Cherry tomatoes or vine tomatoes, chopped

• Red onion, thinly sliced

• Green bell pepper, sliced

• Feta cheese, cubed or crumbled

• Dried oregano

• Extra virgin olive oil

• Red wine vinegar or lemon juice

• Salt and freshly ground black pepper

directions

1. In a large salad bowl, combine the sliced cucumber, chopped tomatoes, red onion, and green bell pepper.

2. Add the kalamata olives and feta cheese over the vegetables.

3. Sprinkle the dried oregano evenly over the salad.

4. In a small bowl, whisk together the extra virgin olive oil and red wine vinegar or lemon juice. Season with salt and pepper.

5. Pour the dressing over the salad and gently toss to combine.

6. Serve immediately or chill briefly before serving.

Servings and timing

This recipe yields approximately 4 servings.
Preparation time: 15 minutes
No cooking required.

Variations

• Add protein: Incorporate grilled chicken, shrimp, or chickpeas for a heartier dish.

• Try different cheese: Substitute feta with goat cheese or a dairy-free alternative.

• Use different olives: Replace kalamata olives with black or green olives if preferred.

• Add lettuce: For a more voluminous salad, mix in romaine or baby spinach.

• Spice it up: Include pepperoncini or a touch of crushed red pepper flakes for extra heat.

storage/reheating

Store leftover salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. For best results, store the dressing separately and toss before serving. This salad is not suitable for freezing, and reheating is not necessary, as it is best served cold or at room temperature.

FAQs

What are kalamata olives and why are they used in Greek salad?

Kalamata olives are dark purple olives with a rich, fruity flavor, commonly used in Greek cuisine. Their bold taste complements the fresh vegetables and creamy feta in Greek salad.

Can I make this salad ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the vegetables and dressing in advance, but it is best to assemble the salad just before serving to maintain freshness and texture.

Is Greek salad with kalamata olives healthy?

Yes, it is generally considered a healthy dish due to its fresh vegetables, healthy fats from olive oil, and the moderate protein content in feta cheese.

Can I use regular black olives instead of kalamata olives?

Yes, although the flavor will differ. Kalamata olives offer a more authentic and robust taste compared to regular black olives.

What kind of feta cheese is best for this salad?

Block feta cheese made from sheep’s milk is traditional and preferred for its creaminess and tang. Crumbled feta can also be used for convenience.

How can I make this recipe vegan?

Omit the feta cheese or use a vegan cheese substitute to make the salad fully plant-based.

Should I peel the cucumber?

Peeling is optional. If using an English cucumber, the skin is thin and edible. For other varieties, you may choose to peel them if the skin is thick or bitter.

What dressing is typically used for Greek salad?

A simple vinaigrette made with olive oil, red wine vinegar or lemon juice, oregano, salt, and pepper is traditionally used.

How long can Greek salad sit out at room temperature?

It is best to serve Greek salad within 1 to 2 hours at room temperature, especially if it contains cheese.

Can I add herbs other than oregano?

Yes, fresh herbs like parsley, dill, or mint can enhance the flavor and provide a unique twist.

Conclusion

Greek Salad with Kalamata Olives is a timeless, easy-to-make dish that captures the essence of Mediterranean cuisine. With fresh vegetables, briny olives, and a simple dressing, it offers both flavor and nutrition. Whether served as a starter, a side, or a light main dish, it is a delicious option for any occasion

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