International Cuisine > Greek Cuisine > Salads & Appetizers (Greek) > Greek Salad (Horiatiki) Recipe

Authentic Greek Salad (Horiatiki)

Discover the traditional flavors of Greece with this authentic Horiatiki salad recipe. Simple, fresh ingredients combine to create a refreshing and flavorful dish perfect as a side or a light meal.

Prep Time
15 minutes
Cook Time
0 minutes
Servings
4
Ingredients
  • 4 Large ripe tomatoes
  • 1 Cucumber
  • 1/2 Red onion
  • 1/2 Green bell pepper
  • 1/2 cup Kalamata olives
  • 4 oz Feta cheese
  • 1 tsp Dried oregano
  • 2 tbsp Red wine vinegar
  • 4 tbsp Extra virgin olive oil
  • to taste Salt
  • to taste Freshly ground black pepper

Prepare the Vegetables

Begin by washing all the vegetables thoroughly. Cut the tomatoes into wedges. Peel the cucumber (optional, but common) and cut it into thick slices. Thinly slice the red onion. Remove the seeds from the green bell pepper and cut it into strips. Place all the prepared vegetables in a large bowl.

Add the Olives and Feta

Add the Kalamata olives to the bowl with the vegetables. Crumble or cut the feta cheese into large chunks and add it to the salad. Authentic Greek salad doesn't usually have finely crumbled feta; larger pieces are preferred.

Dress the Salad

In a small bowl, whisk together the red wine vinegar, extra virgin olive oil, dried oregano, salt, and pepper. Pour the dressing over the salad and gently toss to combine. Be careful not to over-mix, as this can make the tomatoes mushy.

Serve Immediately

Greek salad is best served immediately after preparation. This ensures the vegetables are crisp and the feta retains its texture. The salad can be garnished with a few extra Kalamata olives and a drizzle of olive oil, if desired. Enjoy!

Nutrition Facts Estimated per 100g of product

Calories: Approximately 150-200 kcal
Fat: 12-15g (mostly from olive oil and feta)
Protein: 4-6g
Carbohydrates: 8-10g
Fiber: 2-3g
Note: This is an estimate and can vary based on specific ingredient quantities and types.

Other Important Considerations for Nutrition

This salad is a good source of healthy fats, vitamins, and minerals. Using high-quality extra virgin olive oil provides beneficial antioxidants. The vegetables contribute fiber, which is important for digestive health. Be mindful of the salt content, especially if you are watching your sodium intake. You can adjust the amount of salt used in the dressing to your liking. The feta cheese also contributes to the sodium content. Choosing a lower-sodium feta option can help.

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FAQ

  • Can I add lettuce to Greek Salad?

    Traditionally, Greek salad (Horiatiki) does not contain lettuce. The focus is on the fresh flavors of the tomatoes, cucumber, onion, peppers, and feta.
  • What is the best type of feta cheese to use?

    Authentic Greek feta cheese, made from sheep's milk (or a combination of sheep's and goat's milk), is the best choice. It has a distinct flavor and texture that is different from feta made from cow's milk.
  • Can I prepare Greek Salad ahead of time?

    It's best to serve Greek salad immediately. If you need to prepare it in advance, you can chop the vegetables and store them separately from the dressing. Add the dressing just before serving to prevent the salad from becoming soggy.