Classic Greek Salad with Feta, Kalamata Olives & Fresh Vegetables

A refreshing and colorful Greek salad made with crisp cucumbers, juicy cherry tomatoes, red onions, creamy feta cheese, Kalamata olives, and green olives. Everything is tossed in a simple homemade Greek dressing with extra virgin olive oil, lemon juice, oregano, and fresh herbs. This Mediterranean favorite is perfect for lunch, dinner, or a healthy side dish!

Ingredients

For the Salad:

• 2 cups cherry tomatoes, halved

• 1 large cucumber, sliced into half-moons

• ½ medium red onion, thinly sliced

• ½ cup Kalamata olives, pitted

• ½ cup green olives, pitted

• ¾ cup feta cheese, cut into cubes

• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped

• 1 tablespoon fresh oregano (optional)

For the Greek Dressing:

• ¼ cup extra virgin olive oil

• 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice

• 1 tablespoon red wine vinegar

• 1 teaspoon dried oregano

• 1 small garlic clove, minced

• ½ teaspoon Dijon mustard (optional)

• ¼ teaspoon salt, or to taste

• ¼ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Vegetables

Wash the cherry tomatoes and cucumber thoroughly. Cut the tomatoes in half and slice the cucumber into bite-sized pieces. Thinly slice the red onion and set everything aside.

Step 2: Prepare the Olives and Feta

Pit the Kalamata and green olives if necessary. Cut the feta cheese into medium-sized cubes. Keep the feta cubes intact for a beautiful presentation.

Step 3: Make the Greek Dressing

In a small bowl, whisk together the extra virgin olive oil, lemon juice, red wine vinegar, minced garlic, dried oregano, Dijon mustard, salt, and black pepper until well combined.

Step 4: Assemble the Salad

Add the cucumbers, cherry tomatoes, red onion, Kalamata olives, and green olives to a large salad bowl. Gently toss the vegetables to distribute the ingredients evenly.

Step 5: Add the Feta Cheese

Arrange the feta cubes over the vegetables. Sprinkle with fresh parsley and oregano.

Step 6: Dress and Toss

Pour the homemade Greek dressing over the salad. Gently toss or leave the feta cubes on top for a traditional presentation.

Step 7: Serve

Serve immediately for the freshest flavor, or refrigerate for 15–20 minutes to allow the flavors to blend. Enjoy chilled!

Preparation & Cooking Information

• Prep Time: 15 minutes

• Cook Time: 0 minutes

• Total Time: 15 minutes

• Servings: 4

• Course: Salad / Side Dish

• Cuisine: Mediterranean / Greek

• Difficulty: Easy

• Diet: Vegetarian, Gluten-Free, Mediterranean-Friendly

Nutrition Information

Estimated values per serving, based on 4 servings.

Nutrition values are estimates and may vary depending on the feta, olives, and amount of dressing used.

Health Benefits

1. Heart-Friendly Fats: Extra virgin olive oil provides monounsaturated fats.

2. Rich in Antioxidants: Tomatoes contain lycopene and other beneficial plant compounds.

3. Hydration Support: Cucumbers have a high water content.

4. Calcium Source: Feta cheese contributes calcium for healthy bones.

5. Fiber Support: Fresh vegetables provide dietary fiber for digestive health.

6. Mediterranean Goodness: Combines vegetables, olives, herbs, and olive oil in a balanced dish.

Frequently Asked Questions (Q&A)

Q1: Can I make Greek salad ahead of time?

Yes! You can chop the vegetables and prepare the dressing up to 24 hours ahead. Store them separately in airtight containers and combine just before serving.

Q2: Can I use regular black olives instead of Kalamata olives?

Absolutely! Kalamata olives provide a traditional Greek flavor, but regular black olives work well too.

Q3: Can I make this salad without feta cheese?

Yes. You can leave out the feta or use a dairy-free feta alternative.

Q4: Is Greek salad keto-friendly?

Yes! This salad can fit into a keto-friendly eating plan. Keep portions of tomatoes and onions moderate and check the carbohydrate content of your dressing.

Q5: Is this salad gluten-free?

Yes! All the ingredients listed are naturally gluten-free. Check packaged ingredients to ensure there is no cross-contamination.

Q6: What protein can I add to make it a complete meal?

Grilled chicken, shrimp, salmon, or chickpeas are delicious additions.

Q7: How long does Greek salad last in the refrigerator?

It is best enjoyed fresh. Leftovers can be refrigerated in an airtight container for up to 1–2 days, although the vegetables may release water.

Q8: Can I use bottled lemon juice?

Yes, but freshly squeezed lemon juice gives the dressing a brighter and fresher flavor.

Q9: What can I serve with Greek salad?

It pairs beautifully with grilled chicken, baked fish, pita bread, hummus, roasted vegetables, or Mediterranean rice.

Q10: Can I make the dressing without vinegar?

Yes! Simply replace the red wine vinegar with additional lemon juice.