Greek Village Salad, also known as Horiatiki, is a timeless Mediterranean dish that celebrates simplicity, freshness, and bold natural flavors. Made with juicy tomatoes, crisp cucumbers, briny olives, and creamy feta cheese, this traditional Greek salad relies on high-quality ingredients rather than complicated techniques. It’s a staple across Greece, served in tavernas, homes, and seaside cafés as a refreshing side or light main dish.
What sets an authentic Greek Village Salad apart from other “Greek-style” salads is what it doesn’t include—no lettuce, no heavy dressing, and no unnecessary extras. Instead, the vegetables are cut into hearty chunks, topped with a slab of feta, and finished with nothing more than extra virgin olive oil and dried oregano. This minimalist approach allows each ingredient to shine while delivering a perfectly balanced bite every time.
This Greek salad recipe is incredibly versatile and fits effortlessly into a variety of eating styles, including Mediterranean, vegetarian, and low-carb diets. It’s naturally gluten-free, quick to prepare, and ideal for warm weather meals, backyard gatherings, or easy weeknight dinners. Pair it with grilled meats, seafood, or crusty bread for a complete and satisfying meal.
Whether you’re recreating flavors from a Greek vacation or simply looking for a healthy, vibrant salad packed with nutrients, this Greek Village Salad delivers every time. With its fresh ingredients, authentic preparation, and classic Mediterranean taste, it’s a recipe you’ll come back to again and again.
Print
Greek Village Salad (Horiatiki)
Greek Village Salad—also known as Horiatiki—is a bright, refreshing Mediterranean classic made with ripe tomatoes, crisp cucumbers, red onion, briny olives, and a thick slab of feta. Dressed simply with olive oil and oregano, it’s all about fresh ingredients and bold, clean flavors.
- Total Time: 15 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
Ingredients
3 large ripe tomatoes, cut into wedges
1 large cucumber, sliced into thick half-moons
1/2 red onion, thinly sliced
3/4 cup Kalamata olives
6 oz block of feta cheese (not crumbled)
3 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
1 tsp dried oregano
Salt, to taste
Freshly cracked black pepper (optional)
Instructions
Add tomatoes, cucumber, red onion, and olives to a large serving bowl.
Lightly season with a pinch of salt and gently toss.
Place the block of feta on top of the salad.
Drizzle olive oil over everything and sprinkle with dried oregano.
Finish with black pepper if desired. Serve immediately.
Notes
Cooking Tips
-
Use block feta, not pre-crumbled, for authentic texture and flavor.
-
Salt lightly—feta and olives already add plenty of salinity.
-
Let the salad rest for 5 minutes before serving to meld flavors.
-
Always use high-quality extra virgin olive oil—it makes a big difference.
Variations
-
Add Protein: Top with grilled chicken, shrimp, or chickpeas for a heartier meal.
-
Herb Boost: Add fresh oregano or parsley for extra freshness.
-
Pepper Twist: Include sliced green bell peppers (a common regional addition).
-
Vegan Option: Swap feta for a marinated tofu or plant-based feta alternative
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 220
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 520mg
- Fat: 18g
- Carbohydrates: 10g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 6g




