Introduction
The Salade Grecque Classique, or classic Greek salad, is a vibrant and refreshing dish that brings together the fresh flavors of the Mediterranean. It’s a perfect blend of crisp vegetables, tangy feta cheese, and briny olives, all dressed in a light, zesty olive oil-based dressing. This salad is not only simple to make but also incredibly satisfying, making it a popular choice for lunches, dinners, or side dishes. Whether you’re enjoying it on a hot summer day or alongside a hearty main course in the winter, Greek salad is always a great option. Greek cuisine is known for its focus on fresh, flavorful ingredients, and this salad is a prime example of that tradition.
Ingredients
This salad relies on simple, fresh ingredients to create its bold flavors. Here’s what you’ll need:
- 1 cucumber, diced
- 1 pint cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1/2 red onion, thinly sliced
- 1/2 cup kalamata olives
- 1/2 cup green olives
- 200g feta cheese, cubed
- 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
- 1 tsp dried oregano
For the Dressing:
- 3 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tbsp red wine vinegar
- Juice of 1/2 lemon
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
Preparation
This salad comes together quickly, but it’s important to follow the steps carefully to ensure the perfect balance of flavors and textures.
Step 1: Prepare the Vegetables
To begin, prepare the vegetables. In a large salad bowl, combine the diced cucumber, halved cherry tomatoes, and thinly sliced red onion. Each vegetable plays a key role in this dish. The cucumber adds a refreshing crunch, while the cherry tomatoes bring a burst of sweetness. Red onion provides a bit of sharpness that balances the milder flavors.
Step 2: Add the Olives
Next, add the kalamata and green olives. These olives contribute a salty, briny taste that contrasts beautifully with the fresh vegetables. The kalamata olives offer a stronger, more pronounced flavor, while the green olives bring a smoother, buttery element. Together, they add depth and authenticity to the salad.
Step 3: Fold in the Feta & Herbs
Now, carefully fold in the cubed feta cheese. Feta is a hallmark of Greek cuisine, known for its tangy flavor and crumbly texture. When mixing, be gentle so that the cheese maintains its shape. Then, sprinkle the salad with fresh parsley and dried oregano. Parsley adds a subtle earthiness, while oregano delivers that signature Mediterranean aroma.
Step 4: Make the Dressing
In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, red wine vinegar, and lemon juice until emulsified. The olive oil serves as the base, providing richness, while the vinegar and lemon juice bring acidity to brighten the dish. Season the dressing with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste. A well-balanced dressing is essential for tying all the flavors together.
Step 5: Toss the Salad
Finally, pour the dressing over the salad and gently toss to combine. Be mindful not to overmix; you want to coat all the ingredients evenly without breaking up the feta too much. Once you’ve tossed the salad, taste it to ensure the seasoning is just right. You can adjust the salt, pepper, or lemon juice as needed.
COOKING Note
It’s important to use fresh, high-quality ingredients in this recipe to get the best possible flavor. Since the salad is uncooked, the quality of the olive oil, feta cheese, and vegetables will shine through. Extra virgin olive oil is recommended for the dressing, as it adds richness without overwhelming the other ingredients. Additionally, authentic Greek feta has a firmer texture and more robust flavor than other varieties, making it ideal for this dish.
Serving Suggestions
The Salade Grecque Classique is incredibly versatile. You can serve it as a light lunch, an appetizer, or a side dish. It pairs wonderfully with grilled meats, such as lamb or chicken, and it’s also excellent alongside fish. For a simple meal, serve the salad with some warm, crusty bread to soak up the dressing. You might also want to include it in a larger Mediterranean spread, with dishes like hummus, tzatziki, or stuffed grape leaves.
Tips
- Customizing the Salad: Feel free to customize the salad by adding additional vegetables such as bell peppers or radishes. These will add extra crunch and flavor to the dish.
- Onion Tip: If you find the flavor of raw onion too sharp, soak the sliced red onion in ice water for about 10 minutes before adding it to the salad. This will mellow its bite.
- Capers for Extra Flavor: Want to intensify the briny flavor? Add a handful of capers to the salad for an additional punch of saltiness.
Prep Time:
- 10 minutes
Cooking Time:
- None (no cooking required)
Total Time:
- 10 minutes
Nutritional Information (per serving):
- Calories: 200 kcal
- Protein: 5g
- Sodium: 400mg
Conclusion
The Salade Grecque Classique is a timeless dish that highlights the best of Mediterranean cuisine. It’s quick, easy to prepare, and full of vibrant flavors. Whether you’re looking for a light and healthy lunch or a flavorful side dish to accompany your dinner, this Greek salad is sure to impress. The combination of fresh vegetables, salty olives, and creamy feta cheese, all dressed in a zesty vinaigrette, makes for a dish that is as visually appealing as it is delicious. Serve it at your next gathering, and it’s sure to be a hit.
FAQ
Q1: Can I make this salad ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the salad ingredients a few hours ahead of time, but it’s best to wait until just before serving to add the feta and dressing. This will prevent the salad from becoming soggy.
Q2: What can I use if I don’t have feta cheese?
If feta isn’t available, you can use goat cheese or ricotta salata. Both provide a similar tangy flavor, although the texture may be different.
Q3: Is this salad gluten-free?
Yes, the Salade Grecque Classique is naturally gluten-free. However, be mindful of any bread or additional side dishes you serve with it if gluten is a concern.
Q4: How do I store leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge. The salad will stay fresh for about 1-2 days, but the vegetables may lose some of their crispness over time.
If you’re eager to explore a wider variety of mouthwatering recipes, you can click here to uncover a collection of dishes that suit every palate. Whether you’re in the mood for quick and easy meals or something more elaborate, you’ll find plenty of inspiration to elevate your cooking experience!