Unforgettable Braised Greek Salad Recipe That Dazzles!

Published:

by Molly white

Leave a Comment

In a world full of ordinary salads, imagine a dish that sings with the zest of lemon, dances with fresh herbs, and embraces the crunch of seasonal vegetables. That’s right; we’re diving into the delightful realm of Braised Greek Salad. This isn’t your typical bowl of greens tossed together in a hurry. No, my friends, this is a culinary experience that will have your taste buds doing the tango. Picture vibrant tomatoes that burst with flavor, cucumbers that offer a crisp bite, all lovingly braised to create an explosion of Mediterranean magic.

Jump to:

Now let me take you back to that unforgettable summer day when my family decided to host an outdoor barbecue. We had everything from grilled meats to cheesy dips, but then I introduced my Braised Greek Salad. As we gathered around the table under twinkling fairy lights and shared stories, this salad became the star of the show! Everyone raved about it so much that I half expected it to ask for an encore. grilled eggplant appetizers Trust me, once you experience this salad’s charm, you’ll want to serve it at every gathering especially those lazy summer afternoons or cozy winter nights when you crave something fresh yet comforting.

Why You'll Love This Recipe

  • The Braised Greek Salad is incredibly easy to whip up, making it perfect for weeknight dinners or last-minute gatherings.
  • Its medley of flavors brings together tangy feta and zesty olives for a delicious explosion with every bite.
  • Visually stunning with its rainbow of colors, it’s guaranteed to impress any dinner party guest.
  • Plus, it’s versatile enough to pair beautifully with grilled meats or stand alone as a refreshing main course!

Ingredients for Braised Greek Salad

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

  • Cherry Tomatoes: Opt for ripe cherry tomatoes; their sweetness adds a burst of flavor.
  • Cucumber: Choose firm cucumbers for crunch; they balance out the salad’s richness.
  • Red Onion: Thinly sliced red onions provide a mild bite that complements other ingredients.
  • Bell Peppers: Use assorted colors to brighten up your dish while adding sweetness and crunch.
  • Kalamata Olives: These briny beauties bring essential Mediterranean flavor; pitted makes life easier.
  • Feta Cheese: Crumbled feta adds creaminess and tang; feel free to use reduced-fat if desired.

For the Dressing:

  • Olive Oil: High-quality extra virgin olive oil enhances flavor and provides healthy fats.
  • Lemon Juice: Freshly squeezed lemon juice brightens up the salad and balances flavors perfectly.
  • Dried Oregano: Adds an aromatic touch; it’s like sprinkling a little bit of Greece on your salad.

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

Recipe preparation for Braised Greek Salad

How to Make Braised Greek Salad

Follow these simple steps to prepare this delicious dish:

Step 1: Prepare Your Veggies

Start by washing all your vegetables thoroughly. Halve the cherry tomatoes and dice the cucumber into bite-sized pieces. Thinly slice the red onion and bell peppers for maximum flavor integration.

Step 2: Combine Ingredients

In a large bowl, combine all your chopped veggies along with Kalamata olives and crumbled feta cheese. The colors should already start looking appetizing!

Step 3: Make the Dressing

In a small bowl or jar, whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, dried oregano, salt, and pepper until well combined. Feel free to channel your inner cocktail shaker here!

Step 4: Marinate

Pour the dressing over your veggie mixture and gently toss everything together until evenly coated. Let it sit for at least thirty minutes; this allows flavors to meld beautifully.

Step 5: Serve

When you’re ready to serve, give it one last gentle toss before transferring it onto plates or into bowls. This salad shines brightest at room temperature but can also be served chilled.

Step 6: Enjoy!

Dig in! Each forkful is a celebration of flavors that transports you straight to Greece no passport required!

With its tantalizing combination of textures and flavors, Braised Greek Salad promises not just nourishment but also joy in every bite! So grab your apron (or maybe just a fork), because this delightful dish awaits you!

You Must Know

  • This amazing Greek chicken marinade offers more than just flavor; it makes meal prep a breeze.
  • You can easily customize the ingredients based on what you have on hand.
  • The vibrant colors and aromas make it visually stunning on any dinner table.
  • Perfect for grilling but versatile enough for baking or pan-searing.

Perfecting the Cooking Process

Sear the chicken first for that delicious golden crust, then cook your pasta while preparing the sauce. This sequence ensures everything finishes at the same time, resulting in a harmonious blend of flavors and textures.

Add Your Touch

Feel free to swap ingredients based on your pantry, like using zucchini instead of cucumbers or feta cheese instead of goat cheese. Experiment with different herbs or toss in some olives for an extra punch of flavor!

Storing & Reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. To reheat, pop them in the microwave or warm gently in a skillet over low heat to maintain that delightful texture and taste.

Chef's Helpful Tips

  • For perfecting your Braised Greek Salad, remember to let your ingredients shine by choosing fresh produce.
  • Avoid overcooking your veggies to keep them crunchy and vibrant.
  • And always taste as you go; seasoning is key!
For more inspiration, check out this whipped Greek yogurt recipe recipe.

After my first attempt at this dish, my friends declared me the “Greek Goddess” of cooking! It was heartwarming to see everyone enjoy their plates, and I knew I had struck gold with this recipe!

FAQs :

What is Braised Greek Salad?

Braised Greek salad is a unique twist on the traditional Greek salad, featuring fresh vegetables like cucumbers, tomatoes, and bell peppers. This dish incorporates a gentle braising method, which allows the flavors to meld together beautifully. summer vegetable ratatouille The result is a warm, savory salad that retains the classic essence of Greek cuisine while offering a comforting texture. You can serve it as a side dish or a light main course, making it versatile for any meal.

How do I make Braised Greek Salad?

To make braised Greek salad, start by sautéing your choice of vegetables in olive oil until they soften. Add garlic and herbs like oregano for flavor. Then, incorporate diced tomatoes and allow the mixture to simmer gently. herb and feta quinoa salad Let the ingredients cook until they are tender yet vibrant. Finally, mix in feta cheese for added richness and season with salt and pepper to taste. This method creates a delightful balance of flavors.

Can I customize my Braised Greek Salad?

Absolutely! One of the best aspects of braised Greek salad is its versatility. You can customize it with your favorite vegetables such as zucchini or eggplant. Adding ingredients like olives or capers can enhance the Mediterranean flavor profile as well. If you prefer a lighter version, consider using less olive oil or substituting with a vinegar-based dressing instead. For more inspiration, check out this Moroccan spiced salmon recipe.

What are some serving suggestions for Braised Greek Salad?

Braised Greek salad pairs wonderfully with grilled meats or fish, making it an excellent side dish for summer barbecues or family dinners. You can also serve it with crusty bread to soak up the delicious juices. For a heartier option, consider adding chickpeas or quinoa to turn it into a fulfilling main course that everyone will enjoy.

Conclusion for Braised Greek Salad :

Braised Greek salad offers a fresh take on a classic dish, bringing together vibrant vegetables in a warm, comforting preparation. By utilizing simple ingredients like cucumbers and tomatoes along with aromatic herbs, this recipe provides both flavor and nutrition. Whether served as an accompaniment to your favorite proteins or enjoyed on its own, this salad is sure to delight your palate and impress your guests. Embrace the Mediterranean flavors and enjoy this delightful dish at your next meal!

Did You Enjoy Making This Recipe? Please rate this recipe with ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ or leave a comment.

📖 Recipe Card

Print
clock clock iconcutlery cutlery iconflag flag iconfolder folder iconinstagram instagram iconpinterest pinterest iconfacebook facebook iconprint print iconsquares squares iconheart heart iconheart solid heart solid icon

Braised Greek Salad


5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

No reviews

  • Author: Clare Schmidt
  • Total Time: 0 hours
  • Yield: Serves 4

Description

Braised Greek Salad is a vibrant, warm twist on the classic Greek salad that brings together the fresh flavors of cherry tomatoes, crunchy cucumbers, and tangy feta cheese. This delightful dish embraces seasonal vegetables and features a simple dressing of olive oil and lemon juice, creating a refreshing Mediterranean experience. Perfect as a side or a light main course, this salad will be the star of your next gathering.


Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
  • 1 cup cucumber, diced
  • 1/2 cup red onion, thinly sliced
  • 1 cup bell peppers (mixed colors), sliced
  • 1/2 cup Kalamata olives, pitted
  • 1/2 cup feta cheese, crumbled
  • 3 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
  • 2 tbsp lemon juice (freshly squeezed)
  • 1 tsp dried oregano
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

  1. Prepare Your Veggies: Wash all vegetables thoroughly. Halve cherry tomatoes and dice cucumbers into bite-sized pieces. Thinly slice red onions and bell peppers.
  2. Combine Ingredients: In a large bowl, mix chopped vegetables with Kalamata olives and crumbled feta cheese.
  3. Make the Dressing: Whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, dried oregano, salt, and pepper in a small bowl until well combined.
  4. Marinate: Pour dressing over the vegetable mixture and gently toss to coat. Let sit for at least 30 minutes for flavors to meld.
  5. Serve: Toss again before serving at room temperature or chilled.
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: N/A
  • Category: Salad
  • Method: Marinating
  • Cuisine: Mediterranean

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 cup (150g)
  • Calories: 180
  • Sugar: 4g
  • Sodium: 350mg
  • Fat: 12g
  • Saturated Fat: 3g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 8g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 14g
  • Fiber: 4g
  • Protein: 5g
  • Cholesterol: 15mg

Next Recipe

Leave a Comment

Recipe rating 5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star