Fresh, vibrant, and effortlessly delicious, the Authentic Mediterranean Greek Salad is a timeless classic that brings the sun-kissed flavors of Greece right to your table. With crisp cucumbers, juicy tomatoes, briny olives, and creamy feta, it’s a dish that balances bold flavors with refreshing textures. It’s not just a salad; it’s a celebration of summer produce and simple, honest ingredients.

Perfect as a light lunch, a side dish, or a centerpiece for a Mediterranean spread, this Greek salad is versatile and fuss-free. It requires no cooking and comes together in just minutes, making it ideal for busy weeknights or sunny weekend gatherings. Whether you’re hosting friends or meal-prepping for the week, this dish delivers both flavor and freshness.

What Kind of Feta Cheese Should I Use?

For a truly authentic Greek salad, always go with a block of feta cheese packed in brine. Crumbled feta dries out quickly and doesn’t deliver the same creamy texture or tang. The brined block keeps the cheese moist and flavorful, and you can cut hearty cubes that hold their own among the bold vegetables.

Ingredients for the Authentic Mediterranean Greek Salad

Cucumbers – Use Persian or English cucumbers for their crisp texture and minimal seeds. Slice them thinly for a refreshing crunch.

Cherry Tomatoes – A mix of red and yellow cherry tomatoes adds both sweetness and color to the salad. Halve them for easy bites.

Red Onion – Thin slices of red onion give the salad a pleasant sharpness that contrasts beautifully with the creamy feta.

Kalamata Olives – These dark, meaty olives are a staple in Greek salads. Use pitted ones for ease of eating.

Feta Cheese – Go for a block of feta packed in brine, cut into cubes. It adds creaminess and salty tang that’s essential to the dish.

Extra Virgin Olive Oil – A good quality olive oil brings all the flavors together. This is the backbone of the dressing.

Red Wine Vinegar – Just a splash adds brightness and balances the olive oil.

Dried Oregano – A sprinkle of oregano gives the salad its signature Mediterranean flair.

Salt & Black Pepper – Season to taste, but keep it light – the feta and olives already add plenty of salt.

How To Make the Authentic Mediterranean Greek Salad

Step 1: Prep the Vegetables

Start by washing and drying all your produce. Slice the cucumbers into thin rounds (or half-moons if they’re larger), halve the cherry tomatoes, and thinly slice the red onion. Place all the vegetables in a large serving bowl.

Step 2: Add the Olives and Feta

Toss in the Kalamata olives. Then, carefully cut the block of feta into bite-sized cubes and gently add them to the bowl. You want the feta to hold its shape, so avoid crumbling it.

Step 3: Make the Simple Dressing

In a small bowl or jar, whisk together extra virgin olive oil, red wine vinegar, dried oregano, and a pinch of salt and freshly cracked black pepper. This no-fuss dressing is bold, tangy, and lets the vegetables shine.

Step 4: Combine and Toss

Drizzle the dressing over the salad just before serving. Use clean hands or salad tongs to gently combine the ingredients. Be careful not to break up the feta too much while tossing.

Step 5: Finish and Serve

Give the salad a final sprinkle of oregano or a twist of black pepper if desired. Serve it immediately while the veggies are crisp and the flavors are fresh.

How to Serve and Store This Refreshing Greek Salad

This salad is best enjoyed fresh, ideally served immediately after tossing with the dressing. The crisp vegetables and creamy feta create a texture contrast that sings when eaten right away. Pair it with grilled meats, fish, or pita bread for a full Mediterranean meal.

If you’re prepping in advance, store the chopped vegetables and feta separately from the dressing to keep everything fresh and crunchy. Once dressed, the salad can sit for a few hours in the fridge, but it will start to release juices and soften over time.

To store leftovers, cover tightly and refrigerate for up to 2 days. The flavors may deepen, but the vegetables will lose their crunch.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use different types of olives?

Yes! While Kalamata olives are traditional, you can substitute with green olives or any Mediterranean-style olive you love. Just be sure they’re pitted.

What if I don’t like raw onion?

Soaking the sliced red onion in ice water for 10 minutes before adding it to the salad can mellow its sharpness.

Is this salad keto-friendly or low-carb?

Absolutely! This Greek salad is naturally low in carbs and high in healthy fats, making it ideal for keto or low-carb lifestyles.

Can I add lettuce to this salad?

Traditionally, Greek salad does not include lettuce. However, you can add romaine or mixed greens if you prefer a leafy base.

How do I make this a full meal?

Top the salad with grilled chicken, shrimp, or chickpeas for a protein boost that turns it into a satisfying main dish.

Can I meal prep this salad?

Yes! Chop the veggies and store them separately from the dressing and feta. Combine just before serving to maintain the best texture.

Want More Salad Ideas with a Mediterranean Twist?

If you love this crisp and colorful Greek salad, you might also enjoy these other refreshing recipes from the Life with Jam kitchen:

• Mexican Street Corn Potato Salad for a creamy, spicy take on summer favorites.
• Summer Perfect Watermelon Cucumber Salad for a juicy, sweet-and-savory pairing.
• Deviled Egg Macaroni Salad for a potluck classic with extra tang.
• Grilled Peach and Honey Mustard Dressing that pairs beautifully with fresh greens or grilled chicken.
• Healthy Mediterranean Salmon Dinner to turn your salad night into a hearty meal.

📌 Save this recipe to your Pinterest board so you always have it handy when craving something fresh and easy.

And when you make it, let me know how it went! Did you stick to the classic combo, or add your own twist with grilled veggies or herbs? I love seeing your creations and answering any questions you have.

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