Classic Greek Salad, known as Horiatiki, is a traditional Greek village salad made with ripe tomatoes, crisp cucumbers, red onions, olives, and a generous slab of feta cheese. Dressed simply with extra virgin olive oil, oregano, and a touch of vinegar, this refreshing salad is bursting with authentic Mediterranean flavor.

Recipe Overview

Ingredients

For the Salad

• 4 large ripe tomatoes, cut into wedges
• 1 English cucumber, sliced into thick half-moons
• 1 small red onion, thinly sliced
• 1 green bell pepper, sliced into rings
• ¾ cup Kalamata olives
• 7 ounces (200g) block feta cheese

Traditional Dressing

• ¼ cup extra virgin olive oil
• 1 tablespoon red wine vinegar
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• ½ teaspoon sea salt
• ¼ teaspoon black pepper

Optional Garnishes

• Fresh oregano leaves
• Capers
• Lemon wedges

Equipment Needed

• Large salad bowl or serving platter
• Sharp knife
• Cutting board
• Small bowl for dressing

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Vegetables

1. Wash and dry all vegetables.
2. Cut tomatoes into wedges.
3. Slice cucumber into thick half-moons.
4. Thinly slice the red onion.
5. Slice the green pepper into rings.

Step 2: Assemble the Salad

In a large serving bowl or platter, arrange:

• Tomatoes
• Cucumbers
• Red onions
• Green peppers
• Kalamata olives

Gently toss to combine.

Step 3: Add the Feta

Place the block of feta cheese on top of the vegetables.

Traditional Tip

Authentic Greek salad is usually served with a large piece of feta on top rather than crumbled.

Step 4: Make the Dressing

In a small bowl, whisk together:

• Olive oil
• Red wine vinegar
• Oregano
• Salt
• Black pepper

Step 5: Dress the Salad

Drizzle the dressing evenly over the salad and feta.

Sprinkle with extra oregano.

Step 6: Serve

Serve immediately with crusty bread or warm pita.

Tips for the Best Greek Salad

Use Ripe Tomatoes

Tomatoes are the star ingredient, so choose the freshest and ripest available.

Use Block Feta

Traditional Greek feta packed in brine has the best flavor and texture.

Keep It Simple

Authentic Horiatiki doesn’t include lettuce.

Use Quality Olive Oil

A rich extra virgin olive oil elevates the entire dish.

Flavor Variations

Greek Village Style

Add:

• Capers
• Extra oregano

for a more traditional island-style salad.

Avocado Greek Salad

Add:

• 1 diced avocado

for extra creaminess.

Protein-Packed Version

Top with:

• Grilled chicken
• Grilled shrimp
• Tuna

Chickpea Greek Salad

Add:

• 1 cup cooked chickpeas

for added protein and fiber.

Lemon Greek Salad

Add:

• Fresh lemon juice
• Lemon zest

to the dressing.

What to Serve With Greek Salad

Main Dishes

• Grilled chicken
• Lamb kebabs
• Baked fish
• Mediterranean meatballs

Bread

• Warm pita bread
• Crusty artisan bread
• Garlic flatbread

Mediterranean Sides

• Hummus
• Tzatziki
• Rice pilaf

Storage Instructions

Refrigerator

Store in an airtight container for up to 2 days.

Best Practice

Keep the dressing separate if making ahead.

Not Suitable for Freezing

Fresh vegetables lose texture after thawing.

Nutrition Information

Per Serving (Approximate)

Frequently Asked Questions

What does Horiatiki mean?

“Horiatiki” translates to Village Salad, referring to the rustic countryside origins of this traditional Greek dish.

Does authentic Greek salad contain lettuce?

No. Traditional Greek salad contains tomatoes, cucumbers, onions, peppers, olives, and feta cheese without lettuce.

Can I crumble the feta?

Yes, but authentic Greek restaurants often serve feta as a whole slab on top.

What olives are best?

Kalamata olives provide the most traditional flavor.

Can I make it ahead?

Yes, but add the dressing just before serving for maximum freshness.

Is Greek salad healthy?

Absolutely! It’s rich in vegetables, healthy fats, antioxidants, and Mediterranean flavors.

Recipe Notes

✅ Authentic Greek village-style salad.

✅ Ready in just 15 minutes.

✅ Naturally gluten-free.

✅ Fresh, healthy, and flavorful.

✅ Perfect side dish or light meal.

Make-Ahead Tip

Slice the vegetables a few hours ahead and refrigerate. Assemble and dress just before serving.

Serving Suggestion

Serve alongside grilled chicken, lamb skewers, or warm pita bread for a complete Mediterranean feast. 🥒🍅🫒🧀✨

Chef’s Secret

Rub a small pinch of dried oregano between your palms before sprinkling it over the salad. This releases its natural oils and creates a more intense, authentic Greek flavor. 🇬🇷🥗✨