Get ready to fall in love with this vibrant Mediterranean salad—every bite delivers tangy, herby flavors, crunchy veggies, and creamy feta that practically transport you to a sunny seaside cafe. The secret to its incredible freshness lies in the carefully chosen Ingredients: juicy tomatoes, crisp cucumber, briny Kalamata olives, and fragrant herbs all unite in a harmony that’s about as craveable as a salad can get. Whether you’re serving it at a summer picnic, tucking it into a pita, or just enjoying an effortless weekday lunch, this is the kind of salad you’ll make on repeat.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Let’s talk about how each of these Ingredients: works some everyday magic in this salad! Simple doesn’t mean boring—they each play an important role in flavor, color, and texture. Choose the best you can find for a truly unforgettable result.

Tomatoes: Use ripe, medium tomatoes for the perfect balance of sweet and tangy—dice them for juicy bites in every forkful.
Red onion: A small red onion adds subtle heat and crunch; finely chop it so it mingles gently with the other flavors.
Cucumber: Half a cucumber, diced, supplies cool crispness that makes every bite feel extra refreshing.
Kalamata olives: A quarter cup of pitted, chopped olives lends a deep, briny accent—don’t skip these for classic Mediterranean flair!
Feta cheese: Crumbled feta provides creamy richness and a touch of sharpness—just a little brings the salad to life.
Fresh parsley: Chopped parsley brightens up the salad, both in color and in taste, with its clean, earthy notes.
Olive oil: Good olive oil is essential here; it brings everything together and adds lusciousness.
Lemon juice: A splash of lemon juice elevates the flavors and keeps things tangy and lively.
Dried oregano: Just a pinch of dried oregano delivers that unmistakable Mediterranean aroma—don’t be tempted to skip it!
Salt and pepper: Seasoning is key; taste and adjust so every single ingredient tastes its best.

How to Make Ingredients:

Step 1: Chop and Combine the Veggies

Start by dicing your tomatoes and cucumber into bite-sized pieces, and finely chopping your red onion. Then, chop the Kalamata olives so you get a bit in every bite. Add all these Ingredients: to a medium mixing bowl, gently tossing to start building the salad’s colorful foundation.

Step 2: Add the Cheese and Herbs

Crumble the feta cheese straight into the bowl, letting some larger and some smaller pieces fall throughout the salad. Sprinkle over the freshly chopped parsley—the duo brings bursts of creamy tang and vibrant green freshness that make this salad so special.

Step 3: Whisk the Dressing

In a small bowl, combine the olive oil, lemon juice, dried oregano, and a generous sprinkle of salt and pepper. Whisk until the mixture looks slightly creamy. This quick vinaigrette ties together all the Ingredients: with a real Mediterranean punch.

Step 4: Toss and Taste

Pour the dressing over your chopped vegetables, cheese, and herbs. Gently toss to coat every ingredient—don’t rush this step! Taste, and add more salt, pepper, or lemon if you like. The Ingredients: should be singing together in perfect harmony.

How to Serve Ingredients:

Garnishes

For extra color and flavor, scatter a pinch more chopped fresh parsley or an extra spoonful of crumbled feta over the top before serving. A grind of black pepper or a quick drizzle of high-quality olive oil can add just the right finishing note to your fresh Ingredients:.

Side Dishes

This salad loves good company! Serve it with warm pita bread, crispy falafel, or alongside grilled chicken or fish. The bright, tangy Ingredients: make for a fabulous contrast to anything rich or savory on your plate.

Creative Ways to Present

Try spooning your salad into halved avocados or pretty lettuce cups for a party-ready twist. Or load it into a wrap or pita pocket for a salad that’s handheld and endlessly portable—a delicious way to show off simple Ingredients: in style!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftover salad can be popped in an airtight container and tucked into the fridge for up to 2 days. Just remember, the tomatoes will release juices over time, so the salad may get a bit softer—but those well-mingled Ingredients: are still totally delicious!

Freezing

Freezing isn’t recommended for this salad. The fresh Ingredients: will lose their lovely texture and become watery once thawed, so it’s best to enjoy this one fresh!

Reheating

No reheating needed! This salad is meant to be served chilled or at room temperature. If it has been in the fridge for a while, just let it sit out for 10-15 minutes so the flavors in the Ingredients: shine through.

FAQs

Can I make this salad vegan?

Absolutely! Simply swap out the feta cheese for your favorite vegan alternative, or add extra olives or a handful of chickpeas for creamy contrast without the dairy.

What other herbs can I use?

Fresh mint or dill are fantastic choices to substitute or supplement the parsley. Each will change the personality of the salad and play beautifully with the Ingredients: you already love.

Can I make this salad ahead of time?

You can chop all the Ingredients: except the tomato a few hours ahead and keep them refrigerated. Wait until just before serving to add the tomatoes and dressing—this keeps everything crisp and bright.

What’s the best substitute for Kalamata olives?

If you’re not a fan of Kalamata olives, try green olives for a milder flavor or skip them and add more cucumber. The flexibility of the Ingredients: means you can always make it your own.

Should I peel the cucumber?

It’s totally up to you! If you like extra crunch and a burst of color, keep the peel on. If you prefer a more delicate texture, peeling the cucumber is a great way to go—either way, the Ingredients: will shine.

Final Thoughts

There’s magical simplicity in a Mediterranean salad, and this one is proof that a handful of well-chosen Ingredients: can create something unforgettable. I can’t wait for you to dig in—grab a fork, share with friends, and watch these sunny, zesty flavors disappear!

Greek Salad with Feta & Kalamata Olives