Ingredients
Method
Prepare the Cucumbers
- Wash the cucumbers thoroughly and trim the ends. If using thick-skinned cucumbers, peel them partially or completely depending on preference. Cut the cucumbers lengthwise and then slice them into large rustic chunks approximately 2–3 cm in size. Greek village salads traditionally use chunky vegetables rather than finely chopped pieces. If the cucumbers contain large seeds, remove them before chopping to maintain a crisp texture. Place the cucumber pieces into a large mixing bowl.
Prepare the Tomatoes
- Wash the tomatoes and pat them dry. Using a sharp knife, cut the tomatoes into large wedges, typically 6–8 pieces per tomato depending on size. Avoid cutting them too small so they maintain their structure when tossed with the other ingredients. If the tomatoes contain excess watery pulp, remove some of the interior seeds to prevent the salad from becoming overly watery. Add the tomato wedges to the bowl.
Prepare the Red Onion
- Peel the red onion and slice it very thinly into half-moon slices about 2 mm thick. Thin slicing ensures the onion flavor blends evenly with the other vegetables without overpowering them. If the onion flavor is very strong, place the slices in a bowl of cold water for 5 minutes, then drain thoroughly and pat dry before adding to the salad. This step mellows the sharpness while keeping the onion crisp.
Prepare the Green Bell Pepper
- Wash the green bell pepper and remove the stem, seeds, and internal membranes. Chop the pepper into medium-sized pieces roughly 1–2 cm wide so the flavor distributes evenly throughout the salad. Add the chopped bell pepper to the bowl with the other vegetables.
Add the Kalamata Olives
- Ensure the Kalamata olives are pitted. If they are whole, they can be added directly to the salad or sliced in half lengthwise for easier distribution. Olives contribute the briny, salty flavor typical of Greek village salads.
Combine the Vegetables
- Add the cucumbers, tomatoes, red onion, bell pepper, and olives to a large bowl. Toss the vegetables gently using a spoon or salad tongs to distribute them evenly before adding the dressing.
Prepare the Lemon-Oregano Dressing
- In a small bowl combine the extra virgin olive oil, fresh lemon juice, dried oregano, sea salt, and black pepper. Whisk vigorously for about 15–20 seconds until the oil and lemon juice emulsify slightly. The dressing should taste bright, aromatic, and balanced with citrus and herbs.
Dress the Salad
- Pour the prepared dressing evenly over the vegetables. Toss the salad gently until all ingredients are lightly coated with the vinaigrette.
Add the Feta Cheese
- Sprinkle the crumbled feta cheese over the top of the salad. For a more traditional presentation, feta can also be added as larger chunks rather than small crumbles.
Serve
- Serve the salad immediately at room temperature for the best flavor. Greek village salad is typically served as a refreshing side dish alongside grilled meats, seafood, or Mediterranean-style meals.
Notes
Greek village salad, often known as Horiatiki, is one of the most iconic salads in Mediterranean cuisine.
Unlike many salads, the vegetables are cut into larger pieces to highlight their natural texture and flavor.
Authentic versions often include feta in large chunks rather than finely crumbled cheese.
The dressing is intentionally simple, relying on high-quality olive oil, lemon, and oregano to complement the vegetables.
Because tomatoes and cucumbers release moisture over time, the salad is best eaten shortly after dressing.
