What kind of cheese is used in Mediterranean salad?

Greek feta cheese is the classic choice for Mediterranean salads. Made from sheep’s or goat’s milk, it offers a tangy, salty flavor and a creamy, crumbly texture that complements fresh vegetables. For the best taste, choose authentic Greek feta packed in brine. Other cheeses like halloumi, mozzarella, or manchego work too, but feta remains the signature option.

What is another name for Mediterranean salad?

Mediterranean salad, often called Greek salad or Horiatiki, has many regional versions—like Fattoush in Lebanon, Panzanella in Italy, Çoban Salatası in Turkey, and Ensalada Mixta in Spain. Each highlights fresh vegetables, simple dressing, and local flavors.

What pairs with Mediterranean salad?

This salad pairs beautifully with grilled meats or seafood like chicken, lamb, fish, or shrimp. Enjoy it with pita or crusty bread, or serve alongside couscous or rice for a fuller meal. It also complements Mediterranean dips such as hummus or tzatziki.

What do you put in a Mediterranean salad?

A Mediterranean salad features tomatoes, cucumbers, bell pepper, red onion, olives, and feta, dressed with olive oil, red wine vinegar, oregano, and salt. Add capers, herbs, or chickpeas if desired. Fresh ingredients make it shine.

What kind of salad dressing do you use on the Mediterranean diet?

Dressings are usually olive oil-based with lemon juice or vinegar, seasoned with herbs and garlic. Yogurt or tahini versions are also popular, always highlighting fresh, simple ingredients.

What is the difference between Mediterranean and Greek salad?

Greek salad is a specific type of Mediterranean salad featuring tomatoes, cucumber, bell pepper, red onion, olives, and feta—without lettuce. “Mediterranean salad” is a broader term that includes regional variations from across the Mediterranean, each with its own ingredients and flavors.

Mediterranean Salad: Best Authentic Recipe for Fresh Flavor

mediterranean salad

Print Recipe

Authentic Mediterranean salad with fresh vegetables, Kalamata olives, and feta cheese dressed in olive oil and red wine vinegar.

Author: Chef Rina
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 0 minutes
Total Time: 15 minutes
Yield: 4-6 servings 1x
Category: Salad
Cuisine: Mediterranean

Ingredients

Scale

1 medium red onion, thinly sliced into half moons
4 medium juicy tomatoes, sliced into bite-sized pieces or wedges
1 English cucumber, partially peeled to make a striped pattern and sliced into half moons
1 green bell pepper, cored and sliced into rings
1 handful pitted Kalamata olives
1 1/2 teaspoons dried oregano
Kosher salt
1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil
1–2 tablespoons red wine vinegar
1 (7 ounce) block Greek feta cheese in brine, torn into slabs

Instructions

Optional: Soak sliced red onion in ice water with 1 teaspoon of red wine vinegar for 10 minutes to mellow the flavor.
Combine tomatoes, cucumber, bell pepper, and olives in a large serving dish. Add drained onions.
Season vegetables with 3/4 teaspoon oregano and a pinch of kosher salt.
Drizzle with olive oil and red wine vinegar, then gently toss to combine.
Top with slabs of feta cheese and sprinkle with remaining oregano.
Let rest for 5-10 minutes before serving to allow flavors to develop.

Notes

For the best flavor, use the freshest vegetables available and high-quality Greek feta packed in brine. Serve at room temperature for optimal taste.

Nutrition facts are estimates and may vary based on ingredients used, portion sizes, and preparation methods.

Nutrition

Serving Size: 4-6 servings
Calories: 195
Sugar: 4g
Sodium: 412mg
Fat: 16g
Saturated Fat: 5g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 8g
Fiber: 2g
Protein: 5g
Cholesterol: 22mg

Keywords: mediterranean salad, greek salad, feta cheese, olive oil, kalamata olives

Find it online: https://www.joyliciousrecipes.com/mediterranean-salad/