Greek Salad with Black Olives

This delightful salad captures the essence of Mediterranean flavors, offering a refreshing and nutritious choice for any meal. Greek Salad with Black Olives combines the tanginess of lemons, the creamy texture of feta cheese, and the crunchy freshness of vegetables, all harmoniously blended with the rich taste of olive oil. The dish is a symphony of colors and textures, thanks to the juicy tomatoes, crisp cucumbers, and vibrant red onions. Perfect for summer days, its simplicity makes it quick and easy to prepare, without compromising on taste. The inclusion of black olives adds a depth of flavor, making it a more enriched version compared to traditional Greek salads. This salad is not only visually appealing but also provides a well-balanced nutritional profile. Whether served as a main course or a side dish, it's bound to leave an impression. Its versatility allows it to complement various proteins, making it a favorite for those who enjoy experimenting with different pairings. Elevate your meals with this robust and satisfying Greek Salad with Black Olives.

Ingredients

Main Ingredients:

3 tomatoes, cut into small pieces or slices
1 fresh cucumber, sliced
1 red onion, sliced
Black olives, pitted
Fetaki cheese (soft, 45% fat), cut into large cubes
1 lemon, juiced
Olive oil

Spices:

Salt, to taste
Pepper, to taste

Preparation Time

Total Time: 15 minutes

Step-by-Step Instruction

Prepare the Salad Base: Tear the lettuce leaves into small pieces with your hands and place them in a bowl.
Chop the Vegetables: Cut the tomatoes and cucumber into bite-sized pieces and the red onion into thin slices. Add these to the bowl with the lettuce.
Add the Olives: Incorporate the black olives into the mix. Do not slice them; add them whole for bursts of flavor.
Fetaki Cheese: Cut the Fetaki cheese into large cubes to maintain its creamy texture in the salad.
Make the Dressing: In a small bowl, squeeze the juice of a lemon, then whisk in olive oil, salt, and pepper. Adjust the seasoning to suit your taste.
Dress the Salad: Drizzle the dressing over the salad. Be careful not to mix it too vigorously, as it may cause the salad to wilt.
Serve the Salad Properly: For a more appealing presentation, serve the salad on large, shallow plates, ensuring the ingredients are arranged neatly.
Keep It Simple: Resist the urge to mix the salad components thoroughly. This ensures each bite offers different flavors and textures.
Health Benefits: This salad is not only delicious but also packed with nutrients, making it a satisfying and healthy choice.
Taste Test: Before serving, taste to check the seasoning and adjust as necessary for a balanced flavor.

Nutrition

Calories: Approximately 200 per serving
Protein: 7g
Fats: 15g
Carbohydrates: 14g

Tips

Opt for high-quality olive oil for the best flavor.
If Fetaki cheese is unavailable, substitute with a mild feta variety.
To add a twist, sprinkle some oregano or fresh dill.

Variations

Vegan Option: Use tofu or avocado in place of Fetaki cheese.
Low-Sodium: Reduce the amount of salt or use low-sodium alternatives.
Add Proteins: Include grilled chicken or chickpeas for a protein boost.

Serving Suggestions

Serve with crusty bread or pita for a complete meal.
Pair with a glass of chilled white wine for an elegant touch.
Garnish with fresh basil or parsley for added color and flavor.

Best Places

Spondi - Renowned for its elevated Greek cuisine. Location: 5 Pyrronos Street, Athens, Greece.
Eleven Madison Park - Offers modern takes on classic dishes. Location: 11 Madison Ave, New York, USA.
Taverna Olympos Naoussa - Known for authentic Greek dishes. Location: Olympos Naoussa, Imathia, Greece.
The Ledbury - An elegant setting with innovative cuisine. Location: 127 Ledbury Road, London, UK.
Arzak - Celebrated for its creative Basque recipes. Location: Avenida Alcalde Elósegui 273, San Sebastián, Spain.
Noma - World-famous for reinventing Nordic cuisine. Location: Refshalevej 96, Copenhagen, Denmark.
La Pergola - Offers exquisite dining experiences. Location: Via Alberto Cadlolo 101, Rome, Italy.
Narisawa - Combines French techniques with Japanese ingredients. Location: Minami Ayoyama 2-6-15, Tokyo, Japan.
The French Laundry - Known for its impeccable service. Location: 6640 Washington St, Yountville, USA.
Ultraviolet by Paul Pairet - An experimental dining concept. Location: 18 Zhongshan East 1st Rd, Shanghai, China.