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Standard Greek Salad

Woman holding a bowl of fresh Standard Greek Salad topped with crumbled feta cheese, cubed tomatoes, cucumbers, and Kalamata olives.

Nothing beats the refreshing crunch and bold flavors of an authentic Mediterranean dish. This Standard Greek Salad is a staple for a reason—it is vibrant, nutrient-dense, and incredibly simple to prepare. Whether you are following a Keto diet, looking for a healthy Paleo option, or just need a quick side dish, this salad delivers perfectly balanced flavors in under 15 minutes. It combines juicy tomatoes, crisp cucumbers, and briny Kalamata olives with a zesty homemade dressing that brings everything together.

Preparation Time: 15 minutes Cooking Time: 0 minutes Servings: 4

Ingredients

  • 1 large tomato, cut into cubes (6.4 oz / 180 g)

  • 1 cucumber, sliced into half-moons (10.6 oz / 300 g)

  • 0.33 cup kalamata olives, halved (1.8 oz / 50 g)

  • 0.5 white onion, sliced (3.9 oz / 110 g)

  • 0.75 cup feta, crumbled (4 oz / 115 g)

  • 2 tbsp red wine vinegar (1 oz / 30 g)

  • 2 tbsp lemon juice (1 oz / 30 g)

  • 1 tsp oregano, dried (0.04 oz / 1 g)

  • 0.25 cup extra-virgin olive oil (1.9 oz / 54 g)

Directions

  1. In a large bowl, mix the tomato cubes, cucumber slices, halved olives, and sliced onion together.
  2. Stir the vegetables gently to combine, then top the mix with the crumbled feta cheese.
  3. In a separate small bowl, blend the lemon juice, red wine vinegar, dried oregano, salt, pepper, and extra-virgin olive oil. Whisk gently until emulsified.
  4. Sprinkle the dressing evenly over the salad just before serving.

Nutrition Facts Per Serving

Calories: 265 kcal Total Fat: 23 g Saturated Fat: 6 g Cholesterol: 25 mg Sodium: 620 mg Total Carbohydrates: 10 g Dietary Fiber: 2 g Sugars: 5 g Protein: 5.5 g

Pro Tips for the Perfect Greek Salad

  • Buy Block Feta in Brine: Avoid pre-crumbled feta cheese if possible. Buying a block of feta stored in brine and crumbling it yourself ensures a creamier texture and a much sharper, more authentic flavor.

  • Tame the Raw Onion: If you find raw white onion too pungent, soak the slices in the red wine vinegar and lemon juice for 10 minutes before assembling the salad. This “quick pickle” technique softens the sharp bite and infuses the onion with flavor.

  • Room Temperature Tomatoes: Tomatoes have significantly more flavor when served at room temperature rather than straight from the fridge. Take them out of the refrigerator about 30 minutes before preparation.

  • Prevent a Watery Salad: If your cucumbers are very large or watery, scoop out the seeds with a spoon before slicing. This keeps the dressing concentrated and prevents the salad from becoming soupy at the bottom of the bowl.

  • Activate the Oregano: Before adding the dried oregano to the dressing, rub it vigorously between your palms. This friction warms the herb and releases its natural oils, providing a stronger aroma.

  • Quality Olive Oil: Since this is a raw dish with no cooking to mask flavors, the quality of your olive oil matters immensely. Use a high-quality Extra Virgin Olive Oil (EVOO) with a flavor profile you enjoy.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make this Greek Salad ahead of time? Yes, you can prepare the vegetables up to 24 hours in advance. However, to keep the salad crunchy and fresh, store the chopped vegetables and the dressing in separate airtight containers. Combine them and add the feta cheese just before serving.

How long does leftover Greek Salad last in the refrigerator? Once dressed, this salad is best eaten within 24 hours as the cucumbers and tomatoes will release water and soften. If undressed, the chopped vegetables will stay fresh in the refrigerator for 2 to 3 days.

Is this salad keto-friendly? Yes, this Standard Greek Salad is naturally low in carbohydrates and high in healthy fats from the olive oil and feta cheese, making it excellent for Keto and low-carb diets. One serving contains approximately 8g of net carbs.

What protein can I add to make this a full meal? This salad pairs perfectly with grilled chicken breast, lamb chops, or salmon. For a vegetarian protein boost, you can add chickpeas or hard-boiled eggs.

Can I use dried herbs instead of fresh ones? The recipe calls for dried oregano because it has a more concentrated, earthy flavor that is traditional for Greek salad dressings. If you prefer fresh oregano, use 3 tsp of fresh chopped leaves to replace the 1 tsp of dried oregano.

Conclusion

This Standard Greek Salad is more than just a side dish; it’s a vibrant, nutrient-packed addition to your table that comes together in just 15 minutes. With its refreshing crunch, bold Mediterranean flavors, and low-carb profile, it is the perfect companion for grilled meats or a satisfying lunch on its own. Give this authentic recipe a try, and don’t forget to leave a star rating and a comment below letting me know how it turned out. If you make it, snap a photo and tag me on social media—I’d love to see your unique spin on this classic!

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