Authentic Greek Salad Recipe
Greek salad, or Horiatiki, is a quintessential summer dish that embodies the flavors of the Mediterranean. With its cool, crisp ingredients, it complements BBQ favorites and is a breeze to prepare. However, many have been making Greek salad with added vinegar or lemon juice, which strays from the traditional essence. Discover how to make this refreshing salad the authentic way—with no fuss!
Ingredients:
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Ripe, juicy tomatoes | 2-3 large, chopped into irregular chunks |
| Cucumbers | 1 medium, sliced |
| Red onion | 1 small, thinly sliced |
| Kalamata olives | 1 cup |
| Extra virgin olive oil | 3-4 tablespoons |
| Sea salt | To taste |
| Feta cheese | 200g, in slices or slabs |
| Dried oregano | Optional |
Instructions:
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Prepare the Tomatoes:
- Cut the tomatoes into large, irregular chunks directly over the serving bowl to capture all the juices.
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Season the Tomatoes:
- Sprinkle a generous pinch of sea salt over the tomatoes and let them sit for 10-30 minutes to draw out their juices.
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Add Other Ingredients:
- Once the juices have formed a flavorful broth at the bottom of the bowl, add the cucumbers, red onion, Kalamata olives, and olive oil. Toss gently to combine.
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Top with Feta:
- Place slices or slabs of feta cheese on top of the salad rather than crumbling it. This keeps the presentation elegant and traditional.
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Final Touch:
- Optionally, sprinkle some dried oregano over the salad for an extra layer of flavor.
Serving Tips:
- No Lettuce: Remember that traditional Greek salads do not contain lettuce. The focus is on the fresh vegetables.
- Accompaniment: Serve with good crusty bread to soak up the delicious broth, known as papara in Greek, that forms in the bottom of the bowl.
By following these steps, you can create an authentic Greek salad that showcases the true beauty of Greek cuisine. Enjoy the vibrant flavors and simple elegance of this timeless dish next time you gather with friends and family!