Ah, Cheap Greek Salad with Olives and Feta! This refreshing dish has become one of my go-to meals when I want something light and zesty, yet fantastic for my budget. I fondly remember summer picnics with my family where we’d sit under the shade of an old olive tree, savoring fresh vegetables drizzled with olive oil and lemon. The crunchiness of cucumbers mixed with the salty kick of feta and the briny punch of olives brings me right back to those moments.
What I especially love about this Greek salad is how versatile it is. It’s one of those recipes that easily adapts based on what you have in your pantry. You can whip it up in no time, and the best part is that it screams summer, no matter the season. So, let’s gather our ingredients and dive into this delightful dish together!
What’s in Cheap Greek Salad with Olives and Feta?
Cucumbers: Crisp and refreshing, cucumbers are the base of this salad. I usually go for the English cucumbers because they have fewer seeds and a sweeter taste, but regular ones work perfectly too!
Tomatoes: Juicy, ripe tomatoes add a burst of flavor—preferably vine-ripened for that garden-fresh taste. Sometimes I toss in cherry tomatoes for their sweetness!
Red Onion: A little bite from red onion goes a long way. I love soaking them in cold water for a few minutes to tone down the sharpness, making them more pleasant on the palate.
Feta Cheese: Ah, feta! It provides the tangy creaminess that balances all the other flavors. Go for the block of feta instead of pre-crumbled if you can; it tends to have a fresher taste.
Olives: Kalamata olives are my favorite for this salad, bringing a briny richness that complements everything. But feel free to use any olives you love. Just make sure they’re pitted!
Olive Oil: A good quality extra virgin olive oil is key! It enhances the flavor of the salad and adds that silky richness.
Lemon Juice: Freshly squeezed lemon juice brightens up the whole dish! It gives a nice acidity that lifts all the flavors.
Is Cheap Greek Salad with Olives and Feta Good for You?
You bet! This salad is not only delicious but also packed with nutrients. The vegetables—like cucumbers and tomatoes—are low in calories and rich in vitamins and antioxidants.
The feta cheese adds a good dose of calcium, and when paired with olive oil, you’re getting heart-healthy fats! However, if you’re watching your sodium intake, be cautious with the olives and feta, as they can be high in salt.
All in all, this Greek salad is a fantastic addition to your menu if you want something nutritious and quick to prepare. It’s a guilt-free treat!
Ingredients
– 1 large cucumber, diced
– 2-3 ripe tomatoes, chopped (or a pint of cherry tomatoes)
– 1/2 red onion, thinly sliced
– 1 cup feta cheese, crumbled
– 1/2 cup Kalamata olives, pitted and halved
– 1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil
– 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice (about 1 lemon)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh oregano or parsley for garnish (optional)
*Serves about 4 as a side dish.*
How to Make Cheap Greek Salad with Olives and Feta?
1. **Prep the Veggies:** Start by washing your cucumbers and tomatoes. Dice the cucumber into bite-sized pieces and chop the tomatoes. If you’re using red onion, slice it thinly and soak it in cold water for about 10 minutes to mellow the flavor.
2. **Combine Ingredients:** In a large salad bowl, combine the diced cucumber, chopped tomatoes, sliced red onion, crumbled feta, and olives.
3. **Dress the Salad:** Drizzle the olive oil and lemon juice over the salad. Season with salt and pepper to your taste. Gently toss until everything is well combined without mashing the feta.
4. **Garnish:** If you’d like, sprinkle some fresh oregano or parsley on top for an extra touch of flavor.
5. **Serve:** Enjoy immediately or let it sit for a few minutes to allow the flavors to meld together. This salad can also be made ahead of time and stored in the fridge, but I recommend adding the olives and feta just before serving for the best texture.
Delicious Tips and Variations
Feel free to get creative! You can add bell peppers for a sweet crunch or any leftover vegetables you have. Don’t have olives? No problem! Some artichoke hearts can add a lovely flavor.
If you’re looking for something heartier, throw in some cooked quinoa or chickpeas to make this salad more of a meal. It’s flexible and sure to impress!
So there you have it—my beloved Cheap Greek Salad with Olives and Feta. This dish always brings a smile to my face, and I hope it does the same for you! I encourage you to give it a try and modify it to your tastes. And please, share your experience; I’d love to hear how it turns out for you! Happy cooking!
