Classic Low-Carb Greek Salad with Olives and Feta for a Healthy Lunch

This classic Greek salad is a refreshing and nutritious option for a quick lunch. Packed with fresh vegetables, olives, and feta cheese, it offers a burst of Mediterranean flavors that are both satisfying and healthy.

The recipe is simple and can be prepared in just a few minutes, making it perfect for busy days or as a side dish for gatherings.

Fresh Ingredients for a Classic Greek Salad

The foundation of a delightful Greek salad lies in its fresh ingredients. Bright cherry tomatoes, crisp cucumbers, and colorful bell peppers create a vibrant palette that is visually appealing and packed with nutrients. Red onions add a sharp contrast, enhancing the overall flavor profile of the dish.

When selecting vegetables, opt for the freshest produce available. This ensures that each bite bursts with flavor, making your salad not just a side dish, but a highlight of the meal.

Adding Feta and Olives

No Greek salad is complete without the addition of crumbled feta cheese and Kalamata olives. The feta introduces a creamy texture and a salty tang that complements the crisp vegetables beautifully. Kalamata olives bring a briny depth, enhancing the Mediterranean essence of the dish.

These ingredients not only elevate the taste but also contribute to the salad's nutritional value, providing healthy fats and protein.

Preparing the Dressing

A light dressing is essential for tying all the components together. A simple mix of olive oil and lemon juice, seasoned with dried oregano, creates a refreshing dressing that enhances the salad without overpowering it. Whisking these ingredients together ensures a smooth blend that coats the salad evenly.

Adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper to suit your taste, allowing the fresh flavors to shine through.

Assembly and Presentation

Assembling the salad is a straightforward process. Begin by combining the prepared vegetables in a large bowl, followed by gently folding in the olives and feta. This method preserves the integrity of the ingredients, ensuring a delightful texture in each bite.

For an appealing presentation, serve the salad in a rustic bowl. A sprinkle of fresh parsley on top not only adds a pop of color but also a hint of freshness that complements the other flavors.

Serving Suggestions

This Greek salad is versatile and can be enjoyed in various ways. It makes for a refreshing lunch on its own or serves as a perfect side dish for grilled meats or seafood. Pair it with crusty bread to soak up any leftover dressing for a complete meal experience.

Whether served at a summer gathering or as a quick weeknight dinner, this salad is sure to impress with its vibrant colors and fresh flavors.

Nutritional Benefits

This Greek salad is not only a feast for the eyes but also a healthy choice. With approximately 200 calories per serving, it provides a balanced mix of carbohydrates, protein, and healthy fats. The inclusion of fresh vegetables ensures a good intake of vitamins and minerals, making it a nutritious option for any meal.

Enjoying this salad regularly can contribute to a well-rounded diet, promoting overall health and wellness.

Easy Greek Salad Recipe

This Greek salad features crisp cucumbers, ripe tomatoes, red onions, and bell peppers, all tossed with olives and crumbled feta cheese. The dressing is a blend of olive oil, lemon juice, and oregano, enhancing the fresh ingredients. The recipe serves 4 people and takes about 15 minutes to prepare.

Ingredients

• 2 cups cherry tomatoes, halved
• 1 cucumber, diced
• 1 bell pepper (red or green), diced
• 1/2 red onion, thinly sliced
• 1 cup Kalamata olives, pitted
• 1 cup feta cheese, crumbled
• 1/4 cup olive oil
• 2 tablespoons lemon juice
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)

Instructions

1. Prepare the Vegetables: In a large bowl, combine the cherry tomatoes, cucumber, bell pepper, and red onion.
2. Add Olives and Feta: Gently fold in the Kalamata olives and crumbled feta cheese.
3. Make the Dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, lemon juice, dried oregano, salt, and pepper.
4. Combine: Pour the dressing over the salad and toss gently to coat all the ingredients evenly.
5. Serve: Garnish with fresh parsley if desired, and serve immediately or chill for a short time before serving.

Cook and Prep Times

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 0 minutes
• Total Time: 15 minutes

• Servings: 4 servings
• Calories: 200kcal
• Fat: 16g
• Protein: 6g
• Carbohydrates: 10g