Greek – Salad (Horiatiki)

Horiatiki, also known as a Greek salad, is a classic and refreshing dish that showcases the best of Mediterranean ingredients. It’s made with fresh vegetables, feta cheese, olives, and a generous drizzle of olive oil, often seasoned with oregano, salt, and pepper. It’s simple, colorful, and a perfect accompaniment to almost any Greek meal.

Key Ingredients:

Tomatoes (usually ripe, chopped into wedges)
Cucumbers (sliced or in chunks)
Red onions (sliced into rings)
Green bell peppers (optional, sliced)
Olives (typically Kalamata olives)
Feta cheese (traditionally served in large blocks, not crumbled)
Olive oil (extra virgin for best flavor)
Dried oregano (for seasoning)
Salt and pepper (to taste)
Lemon (optional, for added freshness)

Cooking Method:

Prepare the vegetables: Chop the tomatoes, cucumbers, onions, and green peppers (if using) into bite-sized pieces.
Assemble the salad: Place the vegetables in a large salad bowl. Add the Kalamata olives and a generous block of feta cheese on top.
Season: Drizzle with olive oil, sprinkle with oregano, and season with salt and pepper. Some variations may add a squeeze of lemon or a splash of red wine vinegar for a tangy twist.
Serve: Toss lightly if desired or serve as is, with the feta and olives intact.

Flavor Profile:

Horiatiki salad has a fresh, crisp flavor, with the juiciness of the tomatoes, the coolness of the cucumbers, and the sharpness of the onions. The feta cheese adds a creamy, salty richness, and the Kalamata olives contribute a savory, briny note. The olive oil and oregano enhance the overall Mediterranean taste, making it a perfect balance of fresh, tangy, and savory.

Serving Suggestions:

Horiatiki is typically served as a side dish or starter, often with bread to soak up the olive oil and juices. It pairs wonderfully with grilled meats like souvlaki, gyros, or lamb.
It can also be enjoyed as a light main course, especially during the summer months when fresh vegetables are in season.

Cultural Significance:

Horiatiki is a quintessential dish in Greek cuisine and a symbol of the Mediterranean diet, which is centered on fresh, seasonal produce, healthy fats like olive oil, and simple yet flavorful ingredients. It is often enjoyed daily in Greece and is a staple of Greek tavernas and meze platters. This salad is a reflection of Greece’s connection to the land and its focus on healthy, wholesome eating.