Salada Grega (Greek Salad)
A salad made with tomatoes, cucumbers, onion, feta cheese, and olives, typically seasoned with salt and Greek oregano, and dressed with olive oil.
Nutrition Facts
* The % Daily Value (DV) tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.
Thalassa Culinária Grega Mediterrânea
Greek Salad, or Horiatiki Salata (Village Salad), is a traditional dish that reflects the agricultural bounty and culinary simplicity of Greece. Its origins are likely tied to the availability of fresh produce and the practice of using simple ingredients to create nourishing meals. It is a dish born of necessity and resourcefulness, celebrating the flavors of the Mediterranean.
Greek Salad is more than just a dish; it's a symbol of Greek hospitality, freshness, and the Mediterranean lifestyle.
Communal Eating
Greek salad is often served as part of a meze spread, meant to be shared among family and friends, fostering a sense of community and togetherness.
Simplicity and Freshness
The emphasis on fresh, locally sourced ingredients reflects the Greek appreciation for simple, natural flavors and the importance of connecting with the land.
Symbol of Greek Identity
The salad is a culinary representation of Greece and is a staple in most tavernas and homes. It often is ordered to see if the restaurant uses fresh ingredients, as a test of quality.
The flavors of Greek salad are bright, fresh, and savory, highlighting the natural tastes of the ingredients.
The sweetness of ripe tomatoes is balanced by the crispness of cucumbers and the sharp bite of red onion. Kalamata olives provide a briny, slightly bitter counterpoint, while feta cheese adds a creamy, salty richness. The oregano lends an earthy, aromatic note, and the olive oil ties everything together with its fruity, peppery character. The salt enhances all the flavors, creating a harmonious and refreshing combination.
Use Ripe Tomatoes
Choose ripe, in-season tomatoes for the best flavor. Heirloom varieties are particularly delicious.
High-Quality Olive Oil
Use extra virgin olive oil, preferably Greek, for its superior flavor and health benefits. Don't be shy with the oil, as it contributes significantly to the dish's overall taste.
Feta Cheese Quality
Opt for authentic Greek feta cheese, which is made from sheep's milk or a mixture of sheep's and goat's milk. Avoid feta made from cow's milk, as it lacks the characteristic tangy flavor and crumbly texture.
Don't Refrigerate Before Serving
Refrigerating the salad before serving can dull the flavors and soften the vegetables. It's best to assemble it shortly before serving.
Don't Cut up Feta
Most horiatiki is prepared with a whole slab of feta on top, for both visual aesthetic and flavor impact.
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