Traditional Greek Village Salad

Traditional Greek Village Salad

Traditional Greek Village Salad, also known as Horiatiki, is a fresh and vibrant dish that perfectly captures the essence of simple Mediterranean flavors. This salad is made with wholesome ingredients, showcasing the quality of fresh vegetables and the richness of feta cheese. It’s a staple in Greek cuisine and is both delicious and nutritious.

Why Make This Recipe

This recipe is perfect for anyone who loves fresh, colorful salads. It’s easy to prepare and requires minimal cooking, making it a great choice for busy days or hot summer afternoons. Not only is it healthy, but it also brings a taste of Greece right to your table. The combination of juicy tomatoes, crunchy cucumbers, and creamy feta creates a delightful experience for your taste buds, making every bite a pleasure.

How to Make Traditional Greek Village Salad

Ingredients:

• 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved or quartered
• 1 cup cucumber slices
• 1/2 small red onion, thinly sliced
• 1/2 green bell pepper, thinly sliced
• 6–8 Kalamata or green olives
• 1 thick slice of feta cheese
• 1 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
• 1/2 tsp dried oregano
• Salt & freshly cracked black pepper
• Fresh thyme (optional garnish)

Directions:

1. Chop: Slice tomatoes, cucumber, onion, and bell pepper into bite-sized pieces.
2. Assemble: Add the chopped vegetables and olives to a large serving bowl or plate.
3. Top: Place a thick slab of feta cheese right on top of the salad.
4. Dress: Drizzle with extra virgin olive oil and sprinkle with dried oregano, salt, and freshly cracked black pepper. Add fresh thyme if you want an herb garnish.
5. Serve: Enjoy the salad fresh as a side dish or light lunch!

How to Serve Traditional Greek Village Salad

Serve the salad at room temperature or chilled, making it a refreshing dish for any meal. It pairs wonderfully with grilled meats, fish, or as part of a Mediterranean spread. You can also enjoy it on its own for a satisfying light meal.

How to Store Traditional Greek Village Salad

If you need to store the salad, keep it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. However, it’s best to store the dressing separately. The vegetables can last for about 1-2 days, but the salad is always best when fresh.

Tips to Make Traditional Greek Village Salad

• Use fresh, ripe vegetables for the best flavor.
• If you cannot find Kalamata olives, any good-quality olives will work.
• Adjust the seasoning to your taste; more salt or pepper can enhance the flavor.
• For a twist, add some capers or slices of avocado.

Variation

You can make this salad even richer by adding grilled chicken or shrimp. Another popular variation includes adding cooked grains like quinoa or farro for added texture and nutrition.

FAQs

1. Can I use other types of cheese instead of feta?
Yes, you can use other cheeses like goat cheese or a crumbly blue cheese, but feta provides the traditional taste.

2. Is it necessary to use olives?
No, but olives add a nice briny flavor. You can leave them out if you prefer.

3. Can I make this salad ahead of time?
You can chop the vegetables and prepare the dressing in advance, but it’s best to assemble the salad just before serving for freshness.

Enjoy your fresh and delicious Traditional Greek Village Salad, and relish the flavors of the Mediterranean!