Healthy Greek Salad Recipe

There’s something simply magical about a good Greek salad, isn’t there? I could probably eat this delightful dish every day and not get tired of it! My love affair with Greek salads began on a balmy summer vacation to Greece, where I first tasted a fresh, colorful version drizzled with olive oil and sprinkled with feta that made my taste buds do a happy dance. The vibrant colors of ripe red tomatoes, crisp cucumbers, and emerald green peppers were enough to make anyone smile, and the flavors? Totally drool-worthy!

What I adore most about this Healthy Greek Salad is its simplicity and how adaptable it is. Whether you’re having a cozy night in or hosting a garden party, this salad feels special but is incredibly easy to whip together. Plus, it’s packed with nutrients, making it a guilt-free indulgence. So, let’s dive into what makes this salad a true star!

What’s in Healthy Greek Salad?

Tomatoes: The heart of any Greek salad! I prefer juicy, ripe tomatoes like vine-ripened or heirloom varieties. They bring the sweetness that balances beautifully with all the other flavors.

Cucumbers: Crisp and refreshing, cucumbers add that delightful crunch. I usually go for English cucumbers because they have less of a bitter skin and are extra crunchy.

Red Onion: A little bite goes a long way! Thinly sliced red onion adds a zesty kick without overpowering the salad. If it’s too strong for your taste, a quick soak in cold water can help mellow the flavor.

Bell Peppers: I love using a mix of red and yellow peppers, not only for their sweetness but also for the gorgeous color they bring to the salad. Plus, they’re loaded with vitamins!

Feta Cheese: The creamy, crumbly crowning glory! The tanginess of feta cheese is what elevates this salad from good to utterly fantastic. I like using Greek feta for authenticity, but any good-quality feta will do.

Kalamata Olives: The salty, briny bites of olives add richness and depth of flavor. I prefer pitted olives because dealing with pits is no fun!

Extra Virgin Olive Oil: Drizzling high-quality olive oil will give the salad a beautiful glossy finish and a burst of flavor. I always go for cold-pressed for the best taste.

Red Wine Vinegar: A splash of this tangy vinegar brightens everything up and balances out the richness of the feta. Add as much or as little as you enjoy!

Is Healthy Greek Salad Good for You?

Absolutely! This Greek salad is not just delicious; it’s also a powerhouse of nutrition.

Tomatoes: Full of antioxidants, especially lycopene, which is great for heart health. They also keep your skin glowing!

Cucumbers: Hydrating and low in calories, cucumbers are perfect if you’re on a health kick. They’re a great source of vitamins K and C.

Feta Cheese: This cheese adds flavor while providing a good dose of calcium and protein. Just keep in mind that it can be a bit salty, so if you’re watching your sodium intake, you might want to use it sparingly.

Olive Oil: Rich in monounsaturated fats, it’s heart-healthy and known to reduce inflammation. Just remember, a little goes a long way!

The fiber from the veggies combined with the healthy fats from the olive oil makes this salad not only filling but also a great choice for digestive health.

Ingredients List

– 2 ripe tomatoes, coarsely chopped
– 1 cucumber, diced
– 1 small red onion, thinly sliced
– 1 red bell pepper, sliced
– 1 yellow bell pepper, sliced
– 1 cup Kalamata olives, pitted
– 1 cup feta cheese, crumbled
– 3 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
– 1 tablespoon red wine vinegar
– Salt and pepper to taste

This recipe serves about 4.

How to Make Healthy Greek Salad?

1. Start by washing all your veggies. I can’t stress enough how important it is to have clean ingredients!

2. In a large mixing bowl, combine the coarsely chopped tomatoes, diced cucumber, thinly sliced red onion, and bell peppers. Toss them gently to mix.

3. Add the pitted Kalamata olives and crumbled feta cheese to the bowl.

4. In a small bowl, whisk together the extra virgin olive oil, red wine vinegar, salt, and pepper. Adjust the seasoning to your liking; taste as you go!

5. Drizzle the dressing over the salad and toss everything lightly until well combined. Be gentle; we want to keep that feta in nice chunks!

6. Chill in the fridge for about 15 minutes before serving. This allows the flavors to meld beautifully.

7. Serve and enjoy this vibrant, scrumptious Greek salad alongside your favorite dishes!

Add Some Extra Sparkle

– You can add a handful of fresh herbs like parsley or oregano for that authentic Greek flavor!
– For a Mediterranean twist, consider adding chickpeas for extra protein and fiber.
– If you’re feeling indulgent, a sprinkle of crushed red pepper flakes can give it a spicy kick!

It’s hard not to love a dish that’s both healthy and bursting with flavor, right? I truly encourage you to whip up this Healthy Greek Salad at your next meal. Whether it’s a quiet dinner or a lively gathering, it’s sure to be a hit! Once you try it, I’d love to hear how it went for you!

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