Chunky Greek Salad

Introduction

History

Greek salad, also known as horiatiki salad, is a traditional Greek dish that typically includes tomatoes, cucumbers, red onions, feta cheese, olives, and a simple dressing of olive oil and vinegar. This Chunky Greek Salad recipe puts a twist on the classic by adding Caesar dressing for an extra kick of flavor.

Ingredients

How to prepare

Variations

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Be sure to chop the vegetables into bite-sized pieces for a chunky texture.

- Use a high-quality feta cheese for the best flavor.

- Refrigerate the salad for at least 30 minutes before serving to allow the flavors to meld together.

Serving Suggestions

Serve this Chunky Greek Salad as a side dish with grilled chicken or lamb for a complete meal. It also pairs well with crusty bread or pita chips for a light and satisfying lunch.

Cooking Techniques

Be sure to chop the vegetables evenly for a consistent texture.

- Toss the salad gently to avoid crushing the ingredients.

Ingredient Substitutions

Use cherry tomatoes instead of diced tomatoes for a sweeter flavor.

- Substitute red wine vinegar for the Caesar dressing for a tangy twist.

Make Ahead Tips

This Chunky Greek Salad can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Just be sure to give it a good stir before serving to redistribute the dressing.

Presentation Ideas

Serve this Chunky Greek Salad in a large bowl or on a platter for a beautiful presentation. Garnish with fresh herbs or a sprinkle of feta cheese for an extra pop of color.

Pairing Recommendations

This Chunky Greek Salad pairs well with a crisp white wine, such as a Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio. It also goes well with a light beer or a glass of sparkling water with lemon.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. To reheat, simply let the salad come to room temperature or enjoy it cold straight from the fridge.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

Calories: 250 per serving

Carbohydrates

Carbohydrates: 12g per serving

Fats

Total Fat: 18g per serving

Saturated Fat: 7g per serving

Proteins

Protein: 8g per serving

Vitamins and minerals

Vitamin A: 15% DV

Vitamin C: 25% DV

Calcium: 20% DV

Iron: 10% DV

Alergens

Contains dairy (feta cheese)

Summary

This Chunky Greek Salad is a nutritious and delicious dish that is high in vitamins and minerals. It is a great source of protein and healthy fats, making it a satisfying and healthy meal option.

Summary

Chunky Greek Salad is a delicious and nutritious dish that is perfect for a light lunch or as a side dish for a summer barbecue. Packed with fresh vegetables, tangy feta cheese, and a zesty Caesar dressing, this salad is sure to be a hit with your family and friends. Enjoy!

How did I get this recipe?

I remember the sense of wonder I felt when I first saw this recipe for Chunky Greek Salad. It was a warm summer day and I was visiting my friend Maria in her cozy little kitchen. The aroma of garlic and olive oil filled the air as she chopped fresh tomatoes and cucumbers with precision and care. I couldn't help but ask her what she was making, and she smiled and said, "A traditional Greek salad, my dear."

Maria was a master in the kitchen, always creating delicious dishes with simple, wholesome ingredients. She had learned the art of cooking from her own grandmother, who had passed down the recipes through generations. As I watched her mix the vegetables with feta cheese, olives, and a homemade vinaigrette, I knew I had to learn how to make this salad myself.

I begged Maria to teach me the recipe, and she graciously agreed. She handed me a pen and a piece of paper and began to dictate the ingredients and instructions. As I wrote down each step, I could feel the excitement building inside me. I couldn't wait to recreate this flavorful dish in my own kitchen.

After spending the afternoon with Maria, learning the secrets of her Chunky Greek Salad, I returned home eager to put my newfound knowledge to the test. I gathered all the ingredients I needed and set to work chopping, mixing, and tossing. The colors and textures of the salad came together beautifully, just like Maria's had.

As I took my first bite of the Chunky Greek Salad I had made myself, I was transported back to Maria's kitchen. The flavors of the ripe tomatoes, crisp cucumbers, tangy feta cheese, and briny olives danced on my taste buds, creating a symphony of taste that I had never experienced before. I knew right then and there that this recipe would become a staple in my own culinary repertoire.

Over the years, I have made Maria's Chunky Greek Salad countless times, each time with a sense of reverence and gratitude for the friend who had shared this recipe with me. I have added my own twist to the dish, experimenting with different herbs, spices, and ingredients to make it my own.

I have shared the recipe with friends and family, passing on the tradition of this delicious salad to the next generation. I have taught my own grandchildren how to make it, just as Maria had taught me. And each time I make the Chunky Greek Salad, I am reminded of the power of food to bring people together, to create memories, and to nourish both body and soul.

So, as I stand in my kitchen today, chopping vegetables and whisking vinaigrette, I can't help but smile as I think back to that warm summer day when I first learned how to make Maria's Chunky Greek Salad. It is a recipe that will always hold a special place in my heart, a reminder of the joy and wonder that can be found in the simple act of cooking and sharing a meal with loved ones.

Categories

| Cucumber Recipes | Feta Recipes | Greek Recipes | Greek Salads | Healthy Recipes For Diabetic Friends | Prepared Salad Dressing Recipes | Red Onion Recipes | Tomato Recipes |

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