By Greek Salad, known in Greece as Horiatiki, is a vibrant, rustic salad that perfectly reflects the simplicity and freshness of Mediterranean cuisine. Unlike many Western “Greek salads” that include lettuce or heavy dressings, an authentic Horiatiki salad consists of just a few high-quality ingredients: ripe tomatoes, crisp cucumbers, red onions, bell peppers, Kalamata olives, and a generous slab of feta cheese. The seasoning is minimal—extra virgin olive oil, oregano, salt, and sometimes a splash of red wine vinegar. This salad is refreshing, flavorful, and perfect as a side dish or even a light meal on its own.
Greek salad is more than just food; it represents the Greek approach to cooking—fresh ingredients, bold flavors, and minimal fuss. This recipe will guide you through making a traditional, authentic Horiatiki salad along with tips, variations, and serving ideas.
Ingredients
For the Salad:
- 3–4 ripe tomatoes (or a handful of cherry tomatoes)
- 1 large cucumber
- 1 medium red onion
- 1 green bell pepper
- A handful of Kalamata olives (whole or pitted)
- 150–200 g block of Greek feta cheese (never crumbled)
- 1–2 tablespoons capers (optional but traditional on some islands)
For the Dressing:
- 3 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil (good quality is essential)
- 1 tablespoon red wine vinegar (optional)
- ½ teaspoon dried oregano
- Salt (use lightly—feta and olives are already salty)
Optional Add-Ons:
- Fresh oregano leaves
- Pinch of black pepper
- Lemon juice instead of vinegar
- Splash of olive brine for stronger flavor
1. Choosing the Right Ingredients
Greek salad depends heavily on the quality of the ingredients. Each element brings its own flavor and texture:
Tomatoes
Choose ripe, juicy tomatoes; they form the base of the salad. In Greece, large “vine” tomatoes are commonly used. If tomatoes are not at peak ripeness, use cherry tomatoes for sweetness.
Cucumbers
Greek salads traditionally use Mediterranean cucumbers, but any firm cucumber works. If the skin is thick or waxy, peel it partially. Otherwise, leave some skin on for crunch.
Red Onion
The sharpness of red onion balances the sweetness of tomatoes. Slice thinly for the best texture. Some people soak onion slices in cold water for 10 minutes to soften the bite, but Greeks usually keep them raw.
Green Bell Pepper
Only green bell pepper is used in authentic Horiatiki—it offers a slightly bitter, fresh crunch that completes the salad.
Olives
Kalamata olives are the signature olive of Greek cuisine. They add saltiness, depth, and rich flavor. Leave them whole for a rustic look.
Feta Cheese
Use a block of feta, not crumbles. In Greece, a thick slice of feta is placed on top of the salad, then drizzled with olive oil and sprinkled with oregano.
2. Preparing the Vegetables
Tomatoes
Roughly chop the tomatoes into medium wedges. If using cherry tomatoes, cut them in halves. Place them into a large serving bowl—they should release some juice, which becomes part of the dressing.
Cucumber
Slice the cucumber in half lengthwise, then cut into thick half-moons. Avoid small slices; the salad should feel chunky and rustic.
Red Onion
Slice the onion into thin crescents. This helps distribute the flavor without overpowering the salad.
Green Bell Pepper
Remove the seeds and slice into thin rings or strips. Bell pepper adds crunch and freshness.
Assemble
Add olives and capers (if using) into the bowl with the chopped vegetables.
3. Making the Dressing
Greek salad dressing is intentionally simple because the ingredients themselves are so flavorful.
In a small bowl:
- Add extra virgin olive oil, preferably cold-pressed.
- Add red wine vinegar (optional but recommended for brightness).
- Sprinkle dried oregano.
- Add a tiny pinch of salt—remember, feta and olives are salty.
Whisk the dressing lightly. You can also drizzle everything directly onto the salad, which is very common in Greece.
4. Assembling the Perfect Horiatiki Salad
Pour the dressing over the vegetables and toss lightly so the tomatoes release some juices. These juices mix with olive oil to create a delicious natural dressing at the bottom of the bowl.
Now place the whole block (or thick slice) of feta cheese on top of the salad—this is the signature presentation. Do not crumble it. Drizzle more olive oil over the feta and sprinkle extra oregano.
Scatter a few additional olives on top to finish.
Your authentic Greek Salad is ready!
Serving Suggestions
Horiatiki salad is extremely versatile and can be served:
1. As a Side Dish
It pairs perfectly with gyros, souvlaki, moussaka, roasted lamb, grilled chicken, and seafood dishes.
2. As a Light Meal
Add crusty bread and you have a complete, refreshing meal.
3. With Pita or Flatbread
Dip bread into the tomato-olive oil juice at the bottom—this is often considered the best part!
4. As a Mezze (Appetizer)
Part of a Mediterranean spread with hummus, tzatziki, olives, and dips.
Tips for Authentic Greek Salad
- Use good olive oil. This is the heart of the salad.
- Never use lettuce. Traditional Horiatiki never includes lettuce.
- Do not crumble the feta. Always serve it as a block.
- Use ripe tomatoes. If tomatoes are not sweet, the salad can taste flat.
- Avoid overmixing. Toss gently to keep textures intact.
- Serve immediately. Greek salad tastes best fresh and at room temperature.
- Add salt cautiously. Feta and olives already add saltiness.
- For extra flavor: Add a small splash of olive brine or caper brine.
Variations
While traditional Greek salad is simple, you can adjust it based on preference:
1. Island-Style Horiatiki
Includes capers, caper leaves, and more vinegar.
2. Crete Dakos Style
Served over barley rusks with grated tomatoes and mizithra cheese.
3. Protein-Boosted Greek Salad
Add grilled chicken, tuna, or chickpeas.
4. Creamier Version
Add a spoon of tzatziki on the side.
Conclusion
Greek Salad (Horiatiki) is a beautiful example of how simplicity, freshness, and balance define Mediterranean cuisine. With just a handful of ingredients—juicy tomatoes, crunchy cucumbers, sharp onions, tangy olives, and creamy feta—this salad delivers bold flavor without complexity. Its rustic charm makes it a staple in Greek homes and tavernas, enjoyed throughout the year but especially refreshing in summer.
Whether you serve it with grilled meats, enjoy it as a meal, or use it as part of a mezze spread, Horiatiki brings the taste of Greece straight to your table. With proper ingredients and thoughtful preparation, this salad becomes more than a dish—it becomes an experience of Mediterranean freshness.
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