Introduction
Horiatiki, or Greek village salad, is a staple in the Mediterranean diet, and this recipe from Santorini brings the flavors of Greece right to your table. Known for its fresh vegetables, robust olive oil, and the unique addition of feta cheese, this dish reflects the simplicity and vibrancy of traditional Greek cuisine. Yiayia Margarita’s version of this salad incorporates locally sourced ingredients, ensuring a refreshing, wholesome experience with every bite.
Detailed Ingredients with measures
– Cucumbers: 2 medium, diced
– Tomatoes: 3 large, quartered
– Red onion: 1 small, thinly sliced
– Green bell pepper: 1, sliced
– Kalamata olives: 100g, pitted
– Feta cheese: 150g, crumbled
– Dried oregano: 1 teaspoon
– Extra virgin olive oil: 60ml
– Red wine vinegar: 1 tablespoon
– Sea salt: to taste
– Black pepper: to taste
Prep Time
15 minutes
Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Cook Time: 0 minutes
Total Time: 15 minutes
Yield: Serves 4-6 people
Detailed Directions and Instructions
Prepare the Vegetables
Start by washing the tomatoes. Cut them into small wedges or quarters, ensuring they maintain their juices.
Chop the Cucumber
Peel the cucumber if desired, then slice it in half lengthwise. Remove the seeds with a spoon, and cut it into small half-moon shapes.
Slice the Onion
Take the red onion and slice it thinly. You can soak the slices in cold water for 10 minutes to reduce the sharpness if preferred.
Combine the Ingredients
In a large bowl, combine the tomatoes, cucumber, sliced red onion, and a handful of pitted Kalamata olives.
Add Feta Cheese
Crumble a generous amount of feta cheese over the salad mixture, allowing it to mingle with the other ingredients.
Make the Dressing
In a small bowl, whisk together extra virgin olive oil, red wine vinegar, and a pinch of salt. Adjust seasoning to taste.
Toss the Salad
Drizzle the dressing over the salad. Gently toss the salad to combine all the ingredients without breaking the feta too much.
Serve Immediately
The salad tastes best when served fresh. Transfer it to a serving plate and enjoy!
Notes
Ingredient Freshness
Using fresh, seasonal vegetables will enhance the flavors of your salad significantly.
Customization Options
Feel free to add additional ingredients like bell peppers or capers based on your preference.
Storage Suggestions
This salad is best eaten fresh but can be stored in the refrigerator for a short period if necessary.
Cook techniques
Chopping vegetables
When preparing the salad, ensure that the vegetables are chopped into bite-sized pieces for uniformity and ease of mixing.
Mixing ingredients
Combine all the vegetables and feta cheese gently in a large bowl to maintain the integrity of the ingredients while ensuring even distribution of flavors.
Seasoning
Season the salad with olive oil, vinegar, and salt before serving. Adjust these ingredients based on personal taste preferences for the best flavor.
Serving
Serve the salad fresh for optimal taste and texture. Allow each person to add their favorite components to their serving if desired.
FAQ
What type of olives should I use?
You can use Kalamata olives or any good-quality black olive that you prefer.
Can I add other vegetables to the salad?
Yes, feel free to incorporate other seasonal vegetables you enjoy, such as bell peppers or radishes.
How long can I store this salad?
It’s best enjoyed fresh, but if you have leftovers, store them in the fridge for up to a day for optimal freshness.
Is this salad suitable for a vegan diet?
To make it vegan, simply omit the feta cheese or substitute it with a vegan cheese alternative.
What dressing is best for this salad?
A simple dressing of olive oil and vinegar complements the salad well, enhancing the flavors of the fresh vegetables.
Conclusion
The Yiayia Margarita’s Horiatiki Village Salad embodies the essence of Greek cuisine, showcasing fresh, vibrant vegetables and traditional ingredients that create a delightful balance of flavors. This simple yet flavorful salad is a celebration of seasonal produce and healthy eating, making it a perfect addition to any meal or standalone dish.
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