Fresh, colorful, and bursting with Mediterranean flavor, this Greek Salad with Feta Cheese is a simple yet satisfying dish that’s perfect for lunch, dinner, or as a refreshing side. Made with crisp cucumbers, juicy tomatoes, crunchy bell peppers, red onions, Kalamata olives, and creamy feta cheese, it’s finished with a homemade olive oil dressing that’s bright, tangy, and packed with herbs.

This traditional Greek-inspired salad is naturally gluten-free, low in carbs, and loaded with fresh vegetables. Whether you’re serving it alongside grilled chicken, fish, or lamb, or enjoying it as a light meal on its own, this healthy salad is always a delicious choice.

Best of all, it comes together in just 15 minutes with no cooking required.

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Fresh, crisp, and full of flavor
• Ready in just 15 minutes
• Healthy and nutritious
• Naturally gluten-free
• Perfect for meal prep
• Great as a side dish or light meal
• Easy homemade Greek dressing

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Ingredients

For the Salad

• 1 large English cucumber, sliced
• 4 medium ripe tomatoes, cut into wedges
• 1 green bell pepper, sliced
• ½ red onion, thinly sliced
• ¾ cup Kalamata olives, pitted
• 6 ounces feta cheese, cut into cubes or crumbled
• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped (optional)

For the Greek Dressing

• ¼ cup extra virgin olive oil
• 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
• 1 tablespoon red wine vinegar
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
• 1 garlic clove, minced
• ½ teaspoon salt
• ¼ teaspoon black pepper

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Kitchen Equipment

• Large salad bowl
• Small mixing bowl or jar with lid
• Whisk
• Cutting board
• Sharp knife
• Measuring cups and spoons

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How to Make Greek Salad with Feta Cheese

Step 1: Prepare the Vegetables

Wash and dry all the vegetables.

Slice the cucumber, tomatoes, bell pepper, and red onion into bite-sized pieces.

Place them in a large salad bowl.

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Step 2: Add the Olives and Feta

Add the Kalamata olives to the bowl.

Top with cubed or crumbled feta cheese.

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Step 3: Make the Dressing

In a small bowl or jar, combine:

• Extra virgin olive oil
• Lemon juice
• Red wine vinegar
• Dijon mustard
• Garlic
• Dried oregano
• Salt
• Black pepper

Whisk or shake until fully combined.

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Step 4: Toss the Salad

Pour the dressing over the vegetables.

Gently toss until everything is evenly coated.

Be careful not to break up the feta too much.

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Step 5: Serve

Sprinkle with fresh parsley if desired.

Serve immediately or chill for 15–20 minutes for even better flavor.

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Pro Tips

• Use ripe, flavorful tomatoes for the best taste.
• Choose high-quality extra virgin olive oil.
• Pat the vegetables dry after washing to keep the dressing from becoming watery.
• Add the feta last to help it hold its shape.
• Chill the salad briefly before serving for a refreshing bite.
• Slice the vegetables into similar sizes for even distribution.
• Taste the dressing before adding it and adjust the seasoning if needed.
• Toss gently to keep the feta intact.
• Fresh oregano can be used instead of dried for a brighter flavor.
• Serve with warm pita bread for a complete meal.

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Delicious Variations

Greek Chicken Salad

Top the salad with grilled chicken breast for extra protein.

Chickpea Greek Salad

Add canned chickpeas for a hearty vegetarian version.

Pasta Greek Salad

Mix in cooked and cooled pasta for a satisfying pasta salad.

Avocado Greek Salad

Add diced avocado for extra creaminess.

Quinoa Greek Salad

Stir in cooked quinoa to make it a filling lunch or dinner.

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What to Serve With Greek Salad

This refreshing salad pairs perfectly with:

• Grilled chicken
• Grilled salmon
• Lamb chops
• Beef kebabs
• Chicken souvlaki
• Garlic bread
• Pita bread
• Hummus
• Roasted potatoes
• Lemon rice

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Storage Tips

Refrigerator

Store the salad in an airtight container for up to 3 days.

If making ahead, keep the dressing separate and toss just before serving for the freshest texture.

Freezing

Freezing is not recommended, as the fresh vegetables will lose their crisp texture.

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Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Using underripe tomatoes
• Overdressing the salad
• Using low-quality olive oil
• Breaking up the feta too much while mixing
• Skipping the fresh herbs
• Adding the dressing too early if storing
• Forgetting to season the vegetables
• Using watery vegetables without drying them

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Nutrition Information (Per Serving)

• Calories: 240
• Protein: 7g
• Carbohydrates: 10g
• Fat: 20g
• Saturated Fat: 6g
• Fiber: 3g
• Sugar: 6g
• Sodium: 480mg

Nutrition values are approximate and may vary depending on the ingredients used.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make Greek salad ahead of time?

Yes. Prepare the vegetables and dressing separately, then combine them just before serving for the freshest texture.

What type of feta cheese is best?

Block feta packed in brine has a creamier texture and richer flavor than pre-crumbled feta.

Can I use black olives instead of Kalamata olives?

Yes, but Kalamata olives provide the traditional Mediterranean flavor associated with Greek salad.

Is Greek salad healthy?

Absolutely! It’s packed with fresh vegetables, healthy fats from olive oil, and protein from feta cheese.

Can I add lettuce?

Traditional Greek salad typically doesn’t include lettuce, but you can certainly add romaine if you prefer.

What protein goes well with Greek salad?

Grilled chicken, shrimp, salmon, steak, and chickpeas all pair beautifully with this salad.

Is this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, the salad is naturally gluten-free. Just make sure any side dishes, such as pita bread, meet your dietary needs.

Can I use bottled Greek dressing?

You can, but homemade dressing offers fresher flavor and lets you control the ingredients.

Final Thoughts

This Greek Salad with Feta Cheese is a fresh, vibrant dish that’s as nutritious as it is delicious. Packed with crisp vegetables, creamy feta, briny Kalamata olives, and a zesty homemade dressing, it captures the bright flavors of the Mediterranean in every bite. Whether served as a healthy side dish, a light lunch, or part of a larger family meal, this easy salad is sure to become a favorite. Fresh, simple, and full of wholesome ingredients, it’s a recipe you’ll enjoy all year long.