Chef Ed Recipe – Classic Greek Salad
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: None
Total Time: 15 minutes
Servings: 4
Ingredients:
For the Salad:
- 3 cups ripe tomatoes, chopped into wedges or chunks
- 1 large cucumber, peeled and sliced into thick half-moons
- 1/2 red onion, thinly sliced
- 1 green bell pepper, sliced into rings or strips
- 1/2 cup Kalamata olives, pitted
- 1/2 cup crumbled or sliced feta cheese (preferably in brine)
- Optional: 1 tsp capers or a few fresh oregano leaves
For the Dressing:
- 1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil
- 1 tbsp red wine vinegar
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- Optional: squeeze of fresh lemon juice
Instructions:
1. Prepare the Vegetables:
Wash and chop the tomatoes, cucumber, red onion, and green bell pepper. Try to keep pieces thick and rustic for that authentic Greek style.
2. Assemble the Salad:
In a large bowl or serving platter, layer the tomatoes, cucumbers, bell pepper, and onions. Scatter the olives throughout. Top with chunks or a generous crumble of feta cheese.
3. Make the Dressing:
In a small bowl or jar, whisk or shake together the olive oil, red wine vinegar, oregano, salt, pepper, and lemon juice (if using). Adjust seasoning to taste.
4. Dress and Serve:
Drizzle the dressing over the salad just before serving. Garnish with capers or fresh oregano if desired. Serve immediately for best texture and flavor.
Chef Ed’s Tips:
- No lettuce in a true Greek salad—keep it bold and simple.
- Use block feta in brine for the richest, creamiest flavor. Slice or crumble it on top.
- Chill your veggies for 20–30 minutes beforehand for an ultra-refreshing dish.
Health Benefits:
Greek salad is a Mediterranean powerhouse—rich in heart-healthy fats from olive oil, calcium from feta, and antioxidants from tomatoes and cucumbers. The fiber helps digestion and keeps you full, while the olives contribute healthy monounsaturated fats and iron.
References:
- Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health. (n.d.). The Mediterranean Diet. https://www.hsph.harvard.edu/nutritionsource/healthy-weight/diet-reviews/mediterranean-diet/
- USDA FoodData Central. (2021). Tomatoes, Cucumbers, Feta Cheese. https://fdc.nal.usda.gov