This traditional Greek village salad skips the lettuce entirely and lets fresh vegetables, olives, feta, and high-quality olive oil shine. Simple ingredients, properly prepared, make all the difference.

Ingredients (Serves 4)

For the Salad

• 3 medium ripe tomatoes, cut into wedges
• 1 large cucumber, partially peeled and sliced into thick half-moons
• 1 small red onion, thinly sliced
• 1 green bell pepper, thinly sliced into rings (optional but traditional)
• ¾ cup (100g) Kalamata olives
• 7 oz (200g) block feta cheese (preferably sheep’s milk), cut into large cubes or left as one large slab
• 1 tablespoon chopped fresh oregano or 1 teaspoon dried Greek oregano
• 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley (optional)

For the Dressing

• ¼ cup (60ml) extra virgin olive oil
• 1 tablespoon red wine vinegar (optional—many Greek versions use only olive oil)
• ½ teaspoon dried oregano
• ¼ teaspoon sea salt (use lightly, as feta and olives are naturally salty)
• ¼ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper

Instructions

1. Wash and thoroughly dry all vegetables.
2. Cut the tomatoes into wedges, the cucumber into thick slices, and the onion into thin slices.
3. If using, slice the green bell pepper into rings.
4. Place all vegetables into a large serving bowl.
5. Add the Kalamata olives.
6. Arrange the feta on top of the vegetables.
7. Sprinkle with oregano and parsley.
8. In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, vinegar (if using), oregano, salt, and pepper.
9. Pour the dressing evenly over the salad just before serving.
10. Toss gently only if the feta is cubed. If serving the feta as a large slab, leave it on top and allow everyone to break off pieces while serving.

Tips for an Authentic Greek Salad

• Use the ripest tomatoes you can find—they’re the star of the salad.
• Choose authentic Kalamata olives for the best flavor.
• Use a block of feta rather than pre-crumbled feta.
• Extra virgin olive oil should be fruity and high quality.
• Avoid lettuce, bottled dressings, and excessive herbs to keep the salad traditional.
• Serve at room temperature for the fullest flavor.

Nutritional Information (Approximate Per Serving)

• Calories: 280
• Protein: 8g
• Fat: 25g
• Saturated Fat: 7g
• Carbohydrates: 9g
• Fiber: 3g
• Net Carbs: 6g
• Sugar: 5g
• Sodium: 600mg

Nutrition values are approximate and depend on the brands and quantities used.

Nut Information

Contains Nuts?

• No. This recipe does not contain peanuts or tree nuts.

Common Allergens

• Milk (feta cheese)

Nut-Free Status

• Naturally nut-free when prepared with standard ingredients.

Cross-Contamination Advice

If serving someone with a nut allergy:

• Check feta cheese and olives for “may contain tree nuts” warnings.
• Ensure any packaged oregano or seasoning blends are processed in nut-free facilities if allergies are severe.
• Use clean utensils and cutting boards to prevent cross-contact.

Variations

Classic Greek Village Style

Serve one large slab of feta over the vegetables instead of cubing it.

Low-Carb Version

Enjoy exactly as written—it’s naturally low in carbohydrates.

Add Protein

Top with grilled chicken, shrimp, or grilled salmon for a heartier meal.

Herb Lover’s Version

Add fresh dill and mint for extra Mediterranean flavor.

Storage

• Refrigerator: Up to 2 days in an airtight container.
• Store the dressing separately if making ahead to keep the vegetables crisp.
• Not recommended for freezing.

Frequently Asked Questions

Why doesn’t authentic Greek salad have lettuce?

Traditional Greek (Horiatiki) salad is made with tomatoes, cucumbers, onions, olives, peppers, feta, oregano, and olive oil. Lettuce is not part of the classic recipe.

Can I use crumbled feta?

Yes, but a block of feta provides the most authentic texture and flavor.

Is vinegar necessary?

No. Many traditional Greek recipes use only extra virgin olive oil and oregano, while others include a splash of red wine vinegar.

What olives are best?

Kalamata olives are the traditional choice because of their rich, fruity flavor.

Can I prepare it ahead of time?

Yes. Chop the vegetables in advance, but add the dressing and feta just before serving for the freshest taste.

Is this salad keto-friendly?

Yes. It is naturally low in carbohydrates and fits well into a keto or low-carb eating plan.

What can I serve with Greek salad?

It pairs wonderfully with grilled chicken, lamb, beef kebabs, seafood, roasted vegetables, or low-carb flatbread.