Crisp cucumbers, juicy tomatoes, briny Kalamata olives, and creamy feta cheese come together in this refreshing and colorful Greek salad, tossed in a simple herb-infused olive oil dressing—perfect for summer meals or Mediterranean sides. This rustic salad is a staple in traditional Greek cuisine and celebrates the flavors of fresh, seasonal produce.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This classic Greek village salad, or Horiatiki, is naturally light, healthy, and incredibly flavorful. It’s quick to prepare, requires no cooking, and is made with simple, wholesome ingredients. The combination of vibrant vegetables, salty olives, and tangy feta dressed in olive oil and herbs delivers an authentic Mediterranean taste experience. Ideal for warm-weather dining, it pairs wonderfully with grilled meats, seafood, or crusty bread.

Ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

• ripe tomatoes, chopped
• large cucumber, diced
• red bell pepper, chopped
• red onion, thinly sliced
• cherry tomatoes, halved
• Kalamata olives
• feta cheese, crumbled
• fresh parsley, finely chopped

For the dressing:

• extra virgin olive oil
• red wine vinegar
• dried oregano
• salt and black pepper
• lemon juice

Directions

1. In a large mixing bowl, combine chopped tomatoes, diced cucumber, red bell pepper, halved cherry tomatoes, and thinly sliced red onion.
2. Add Kalamata olives and crumbled feta cheese on top of the vegetables.
3. In a small bowl or jar, whisk together the olive oil, red wine vinegar, oregano, lemon juice, salt, and black pepper until emulsified.
4. Drizzle the dressing over the salad.
5. Gently toss everything together until evenly coated.
6. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley.
7. Allow the salad to rest for 10–15 minutes before serving to enhance the flavor.

Servings and timing

This recipe serves 4 people as a side dish.
Prep time: 15 minutes
Rest time: 10–15 minutes
Total time: Approximately 25–30 minutes

Variations

• Add Capers: Include a tablespoon of capers for an extra briny kick.
• Whole Feta Slab: Use a thick slice of feta placed on top instead of crumbles for a traditional presentation.
• Add Green Bell Pepper: For more color and variety, mix in green bell pepper slices.
• Heirloom Tomatoes: Use a mix of colorful heirloom tomatoes for a vibrant appearance.
• Spiced Dressing: Add a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes to the dressing for a touch of heat.

Storage/Reheating

This salad is best enjoyed fresh but can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 2 days in an airtight container.
If making ahead, consider storing the dressing separately and adding it just before serving to prevent the vegetables from becoming too soft.
This dish is not suitable for reheating.

FAQs

What is the difference between Greek salad and Greek village salad?

Greek village salad (Horiatiki) traditionally does not include lettuce and uses simple, rustic ingredients like tomatoes, cucumbers, olives, and feta, unlike Americanized versions which often include greens.

Can I use green olives instead of Kalamata?

Yes, though Kalamata olives provide the most authentic flavor. Use green olives if you prefer a milder taste.

Is it okay to use bottled dressing?

It’s recommended to use a homemade dressing for freshness and authenticity, but a quality Greek vinaigrette can be substituted in a pinch.

Can I add lettuce?

While not traditional in a Horiatiki salad, you may add romaine or mixed greens for personal preference.

What type of feta is best?

Block-style feta in brine is ideal, as it has better texture and flavor than pre-crumbled varieties.

How far in advance can I make this salad?

You can prepare the ingredients a few hours ahead but dress it just before serving for best texture.

Can I serve this salad warm?

No, it is meant to be served chilled or at room temperature to preserve the crispness of the vegetables.

What should I serve with this salad?

It pairs well with grilled meats, fish, pita bread, or dishes like moussaka or spanakopita.

Is this salad gluten-free?

Yes, all ingredients in this recipe are naturally gluten-free.

Can I omit the cheese?

Yes, omit the feta for a dairy-free or vegan version. You can replace it with a dairy-free feta alternative if desired.

Conclusion

Classic Greek village salad (Horiatiki) is a vibrant and refreshing dish that highlights the best of Mediterranean ingredients. With minimal preparation and bold, clean flavors, it’s the perfect accompaniment to a variety of meals or a satisfying light dish on its own. Authentic, rustic, and endlessly adaptable, this salad is a timeless favorite you’ll return to again and again.

Print