Are you looking for a light and refreshing salad that bursts with the flavors of the Mediterranean? Look no further than the village salad, also known as the Greek village salad or Horiatiki salad. This traditional Greek dish is a delightful combination of fresh vegetables, tangy feta cheese, and a zesty dressing. In this post, we will take you through the steps to create the best village salad right in your own kitchen.
The village salad, also known as the Greek village salad or horiatiki pronounced hor-ya-tee-kee, is a traditional Greek dish that has become popular worldwide. This salad embodies the essence of Mediterranean cuisine, with its emphasis on fresh, simple ingredients. The key components of this salad include ripe tomatoes, crisp cucumbers, tangy feta cheese, briny Kalamata olives, and a drizzle of extra virgin olive oil. The dressing typically consists of red wine vinegar, lemon juice, dried oregano, and ground black pepper. We put a slight twist on this village salad recipe with the addition of Flavor Bomb tomatoes. Hope you enjoy!
Why We Love This Recipe:
- It's quick - Whip up a batch of village salad in no time for a healthy and satisfying meal.
- It's addictive - The combination of fresh vegetables, creamy feta cheese, and tangy dressing are amazing!
- It's easy - Even beginner home cooks can master this recipe with its simple steps and readily available ingredients.
- It's seasonal - Village salad is the perfect way to celebrate the flavors of summer with its crisp and juicy vegetables.
- It's versatile - Customize your village salad with additional ingredients and toppings to suit your preferences.
Looking for more amazing Greek salad recipes? Try this Chopped Greek Salad or this Greek Orzo Salad with Dolmades. As a main dish, you must try this Greek Style Lemon Chicken with Roasted Potatoes.
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INGREDIENTS
- Flavor Bomb tomatoes: Bursting with sweet and juicy flavor, these tomatoes are a twist on the original. They are also the star ingredient of the salad.
- English cucumber: Cucumber adds a cool and crunchy element to the salad.
- Green bell pepper: Sliced thinly, the green bell pepper provide a fresh flavor.
- Red onion: Red onion adds a mild and tangy bite to the salad.
- Garbanzo beans: These legumes add a creamy texture and a boost of protein to the salad.
- Kalamata olives: Briny and rich in flavor, the Kalamata olives provide a salty and savory taste.
- Feta cheese: The feta cheese is creamy and tangy. It adds a rich and savory element to the salad.
- Fresh dill: Fresh chopped dill is best here.
- Extra virgin olive oil: The high-quality olive oil enhances the flavors and adds a smooth richness.
- Red wine vinegar: Tangy and slightly acidic, the red wine vinegar brings a zesty kick to the dressing.
- Dried oregano: A traditional herb, dried oregano adds a Mediterranean aroma and flavor.
- Ground black pepper: Adds to the overall flavor profile.
- Lemon juice: The juice of half a lemon provides a bright and citrusy tang to the salad.
Note: Refer to the recipe card below for exact quantities.
INSTRUCTIONS
How to Make the Best Village Salad (Horiatiki Salad)
STEP ONE: Prepare the Dressing
In a large salad bowl, combine the extra virgin olive oil, red wine vinegar, dried oregano, ground black pepper, lemon juice, and minced garlic. Whisk the ingredients together until well combined.
STEP TWO: Mash the Feta Cheese
Add a small block of feta cheese to the salad bowl. Gently mash it into the dressing using a potato masher (or fork, creating a creamy and tangy base for your salad.
STEP THREE: Add the vegetables
Next, add the halved Flavor Bomb tomatoes, sliced and seeded English cucumber, sliced green bell pepper, thinly sliced red onion, garbanzo beans, and halved Kalamata olives to the bowl.
STEP FOUR: Toss and Serve
Gently toss the ingredients together in the salad bowl, ensuring that each vegetable and bean is coated evenly with the dressing. If desired, sprinkle more freshly chopped dill over the top of the salad. Serve and enjoy!
SUBSTITUTIONS
- Vinegar - Instead of red wine vinegar, you can substitute white wine vinegar or apple cider vinegar for a slightly different flavor profile.
- Vegetables - Substitute red or yellow bell peppers in place of green peppers. You could also use mini peppers.
VARIATIONS
- Greek Tradition - Make this salad the traditional way by using Roma or beefsteak tomatoes with a slice of feta. (See image below).
EQUIPMENT
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STORAGE
Village salad is best enjoyed fresh and should be consumed on the day it is prepared to maintain the optimal texture and flavor.
If you have any leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Keep in mind that the salad may become slightly watery as it sits, so it's recommended to drain any excess liquid before serving.
Note: Refer to Top Tips below for more storage and reheating tips.
Top Tips
Use ripe and flavorful tomatoes, such as Flavor Bomb tomatoes, for their sweet flavor.
Adjust the amount of lemon juice and fresh dill according to your personal preference. If you prefer a tangier flavor, add more lemon juice. If you enjoy the taste of fresh dill, add more.
For added convenience, you can prepare the dressing in advance and store it separately. Simply whisk the dressing again before pouring it over the salad.
Allow the salad to marinate in the refrigerator for about 15 minutes before serving. This will allow the flavors to meld together and intensify.
MORE RECIPES
Have leftover ingredients?
- If you have extra garbanzo beans, make this Mini Cucumber and Snack Pepper Salad.
In the mood for a similar dish?
Need something to pair this with?
- Try our recipe for Roasted Lamb Shank with Lemon Herbed Potatoes.
- Serve the village salad alongside some Greek Lemon Chicken Skewers for a complete and satisfying meal.
More lunch recipes you will love:
FAQ
Can I make the village salad in advance?
Can I add protein to the village salad?
What is a traditional Greek salad made of?
What is a Greek salad called in Greece?
📖 Recipe
How to Make the Best Village Salad
Equipment
- Large Salad bowl
- Potato Masher or Fork
Ingredients
- 12 oz Flavor Bomb tomatoes halved
- 1 qty English cucumber seeded and sliced
- 1 qty green bell pepper sliced
- ½ qty medium red onion thinly sliced
- 1 cup canned garbanzo beans drained
- 25 qty qty Kalamata olives
- 4-6 ounces Feta cheese crumbled
- ⅛-¼ cup fresh dill chopped
- ¼ cup extra virgin olive oil
- 2 tablespoon red wine vinegar
- 1 ½ teaspoon dried oregano
- ½ teaspoon Cavender Greek seasoning
- ½ qty lemon juice of
- 2 cloves garlic minced
- Freshly ground black pepper to taste
Instructions
- In a large salad bowl, combine the olive oil, vinegar, dried oregano, Cavender Greek seasoning, minced garlic, ¼ cup chopped dill, and the juice of half a lemon. Whisk the ingredients together until well combined.
- Add a small block of feta cheese to the salad bowl and gently mash it into the dressing using a fork or spoon. Continue whisking until the feta cheese is well incorporated, resulting in a creamy and tangy base for your dressing.
- Next, add the halved Flavor Bomb tomatoes, sliced and seeded English cucumber, sliced green bell pepper, thinly sliced red onion, garbanzo beans, and Kalamata olives to the bowl.
- Gently toss the ingredients together, ensuring that each vegetable is coated evenly with the dressing.
- If desired, sprinkle additional chopped dill over the top for extra flavor.
Video
Notes
Nutrition
Food Safety
- Wash hands and create a clean work area.
- Rinse fresh produce thoroughly.
- Do not use the same cutting board or utensils on cooked food or produce, that previously touched raw meat or seafood.
- Do not leave food sitting out at room temperature for extended periods.
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