Craving a burst of fresh, vibrant flavors that will instantly whisk you away to a sunny Greek island? Look no further than this mouthwatering Greek Salad with Yogurt Dressing! In just 15 minutes, you'll create a culinary masterpiece that's not only incredibly delicious but also packed with healthy, crisp ingredients that will make your taste buds dance with joy. Whether you're looking for a quick lunch, a stunning side dish, or a light dinner that feels like a Mediterranean vacation, this recipe is about to become your new obsession!
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: -
Total Time: 15 mins
Cuisine: Greek
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 1 cucumber, diced
- 2 cups cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1/2 cup red onion, thinly sliced
- 1/2 cup Kalamata olives
- 1/2 cup feta cheese, crumbled
- 1/2 cup plain yogurt
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Wash and prepare all fresh vegetables. Dice the cucumber into uniform bite-sized cubes, ensuring even pieces for consistent texture.
- Halve the cherry tomatoes carefully, cutting them from stem to bottom to maintain their natural shape and prevent crushing.
- Thinly slice the red onion using a sharp knife, creating delicate, translucent rings that will distribute evenly throughout the salad.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the diced cucumber, halved cherry tomatoes, sliced red onion, and Kalamata olives.
- For the yogurt dressing, whisk together plain yogurt, olive oil, and fresh lemon juice in a separate small bowl until smooth and well combined.
- Season the dressing with salt and freshly ground black pepper, tasting and adjusting the seasoning as needed.
- Gently fold the crumbled feta cheese into the vegetable mixture, ensuring even distribution.
- Drizzle the prepared yogurt dressing over the salad, tossing lightly to coat all ingredients without breaking the vegetables.
- Chill the salad for 5-10 minutes before serving to allow flavors to meld and enhance the overall taste profile.
- Serve immediately in individual bowls, garnishing with an extra sprinkle of feta or a drizzle of olive oil if desired.
Tips
- Vegetable Preparation is Key: Use a sharp knife to ensure uniform, precise cuts. Consistent vegetable sizes not only make the salad look more appealing but also ensure every bite is perfectly balanced.
- Fresh Ingredients Matter: Choose ripe, in-season cherry tomatoes and crisp cucumbers for the most vibrant flavor. The quality of your ingredients will make or break this simple yet elegant salad.
- Dressing Technique: Whisk the yogurt dressing thoroughly to create a smooth, creamy consistency. Taste and adjust the seasoning before adding to the salad.
- Chill for Maximum Flavor: Letting the salad rest for 5-10 minutes before serving allows the flavors to meld together beautifully.
- Serve Immediately: This salad is best enjoyed fresh, so prepare it just before serving to maintain the crisp texture of the vegetables.
- Optional Enhancements: For an extra flavor boost, consider adding fresh herbs like oregano or mint, or a sprinkle of dried oregano on top.
- Make it a Meal: Transform this salad into a complete meal by adding grilled chicken, shrimp, or chickpeas for extra protein.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 150kcal
Carbohydrates: 8g
Protein: 7g
Fat: 11g
Saturated Fat: 5g
Cholesterol: 25mg