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The Greek Cuisine
Greek cuisine is known for its delicious and healthy dishes, and one of the most popular and traditional among them is the Greek salad. This iconic salad is a colorful and refreshing mix of fresh vegetables, herbs, and feta cheese that is dressed with olive oil and lemon juice. It’s a simple and easy-to-prepare dish that is loved by people all over the world.
The Greek Salad
The base of a Greek salad is usually a bed of crisp lettuce leaves, which are topped with sliced tomatoes, cucumbers, red onions, and bell peppers. The vegetables are cut into bite-sized pieces and arranged artfully. The salad is then garnished with kalamata olives and crumbled feta cheese.
The Secret to a Great Greek Salad
The secret to a great Greek salad is the quality of the ingredients. The vegetables should be fresh and ripe, and the feta cheese should be made from sheep’s milk. The olives should be plump and juicy, and the olive oil
should be extra virgin. The lemon juice should be freshly squeezed, and the herbs should be chopped just before serving.
Making the Dressing
To make the dressing, simply whisk together the olive oil and lemon juice in a small bowl. The ratio should be about 3 parts oil to 1 part lemon juice. Add a pinch of salt and pepper to taste, and whisk until emulsified. The dressing should be light and tangy, and should not overpower the flavors of the vegetables.
Once the salad is assembled, pour the dressing over the top and toss gently to coat. The salad should be served immediately, as the vegetables will start to wilt if left for too long.
The Greek Salad is Very Healthy
Apart from being delicious, the Greek salad is also very healthy. The vegetables are high in fiber, vitamins, and minerals, while the olive oil is rich in monounsaturated fats that are good for the heart. The feta cheese
provides a good source of protein and calcium, while the olives are high in antioxidants.
Served as a Side Dish or Appetizer
In Greece, the Greek salad is often served as a side dish or appetizer, usually accompanied by fresh bread and a glass of ouzo. In other parts of the world, it is sometimes served as a main course, with grilled chicken or fish on the side.
Conclusion
In conclusion, Greek salad is a delicious and healthy dish that is easy to make and loved by people worldwide. Its simple ingredients and tangy dressing make it a refreshing addition to any meal. Whether you’re in Greece or anywhere else in the world, a Greek salad is always a good choice.
How to Make the Greek Salad
Ingredients
4 large vine tomatoes, cut into irregular wedges 1 cucumber, peeled, deseeded, then roughly chopped ½ a red onion thinly sliced 16 Kalamata olives 1 tsp dried oregano 85g feta cheese, cut into chunks (barrel matured feta is the best) 4 tbsp Greek extra virgin olive oil
Method
STEP 1
Place 4 large vine tomatoes, cut into wedges, 1 peeled, deseeded, and chopped cucumber, ½ a thinly sliced red onion, 16 Kalamata olives, 1 tsp dried oregano, 85g feta cheese chunks, and 4 tbsp Greek extra virgin olive oil in a large bowl.
STEP 2
Lightly season, then serve with crusty bread to mop up all of the juices
