How to Make Horiatiki Salata (Hearty Greek Salad)

Horiatiki Salata, or Hearty Greek Salad, is a traditional Mediterranean dish that emphasizes the vibrant flavors of fresh vegetables, simple vinaigrette, and premium feta cheese. A staple in Greek cuisine, this salad is perfect as a refreshing main course or a delightful side dish, showcasing the essence of Mediterranean simplicity and quality.

Ingredients

🍅 1 3/4 pounds round red tomatoes, local, thin-skinned
🧂 1/2 teaspoon salt, for tomatoes
🧂 3/4 teaspoon salt, for dressing
🥒 1 English cucumber, thin-skinned, few seeds
🌶️ 1 green bell pepper, for its vegetal, grassy flavor
🧅 1/2 red onion, sliced thinly
🍶 2 tablespoons red wine vinegar
🌿 1 teaspoon dried oregano, for dressing
🌿 a pinch of dried oregano, for sprinkling
🌶️ 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
🫒 1 cup Kalamata olives, pitted
🧂 2 tablespoons capers, rinsed
🫒 1/4 cup extra-virgin olive oil, for dressing
🫒 1 tablespoon extra-virgin olive oil, for drizzling
🧀 8 ounces Greek sheep's milk feta cheese, cut into triangles

Instructions

1. Prepare Tomatoes:
   • Core and cut the tomatoes into 1/2-inch thick wedges. Turn the wedges 90 degrees and cut them in half again to create chunky pieces.
   • Place the tomato chunks in a colander set over a bowl and toss with 1/2 teaspoon of salt.
   • Allow tomatoes to sit for 30 minutes to extract excess moisture.

2. Prepare Cucumber:
   • Cut English cucumber into quarters lengthwise, then chop them into 3/4-inch pieces.

3. Prepare Green Bell Pepper:
   • Remove the top, bottom, core, seeds, and ribs of the pepper. Slice it into 2-inch by 1/2-inch pieces.

4. Prepare Red Onion:
   • Thinly slice half a red onion and soak the slices in a bowl of ice water for 15 minutes. This will mellow their flavor.

5. Prepare Dressing:
   • In a small bowl, whisk together red wine vinegar, 1 teaspoon of dried oregano, 3/4 teaspoon of salt, and 1/2 teaspoon of black pepper.

6. Assemble the Salad:
   • Drain tomatoes and onions well.
   • Combine tomatoes, onions, bell pepper, and cucumber in a large mixing bowl.
   • Add Kalamata olives and capers.
   • Pour the dressing over the vegetables and drizzle with 1/4 cup of extra-virgin olive oil.
   • Gently toss the ingredients until well combined.

7. Final Plating and Garnish:
   • Transfer the mixed salad onto a serving platter.
   • Arrange the feta cheese triangles on top.
   • Sprinkle a little more dried oregano and drizzle an additional tablespoon of olive oil over the feta.

Prep Time: 15 minutes (active prep), 45 minutes (including resting/soaking)
Total Time: 45-60 minutes
Servings: 4-6
Calories: Approx. 250 per serving
Proteins: 8g per serving
Fats: 21g per serving
Carbohydrates: 10g per serving
Equipment: 🗡️ Paring knife and chef's knife, 🧺 Colander, 🥣 Glass mixing bowls, 🥄 Whisk, 🥤 Serving platter and plates

Cooking Tips:

• Tomato Salting: Salting and resting tomatoes ensure they aren't watery, enhancing flavor.
• Onion Soaking: Soaking in ice water removes harshness, retaining crispness.
• Feta Selection: Choose high-quality Greek sheep's milk feta for the best flavor and texture.

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Horiatiki Salata (Hearty Greek Salad)