Taverna Salad (Greek Salad)

Taverna Salad is a fresh, vibrant Greek salad that combines crisp vegetables, olives, feta cheese, and a zesty dressing, typically served in a traditional Greek taverna (a casual restaurant or tavern). It’s a simple yet flavorful dish that embodies the essence of Mediterranean cuisine. The key ingredients — tomatoes, cucumbers, red onions, green bell peppers, Kalamata olives, and feta — are typically enhanced with fresh herbs like oregano and dressed with olive oil, vinegar, and lemon juice.

Here’s a delicious and easy recipe for Taverna Salad:

Taverna Salad (Greek Salad)

Ingredients:

• 2 large tomatoes, chopped into wedges or chunks
• 1 cucumber, peeled and sliced into half-moons (or quartered lengthwise, then sliced)
• 1 small red onion, thinly sliced
• 1 bell pepper, preferably green, sliced into rings or strips
• 1/2 cup Kalamata olives, pitted
• 200g (7 oz) feta cheese, cut into large blocks or crumbled
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano (Greek oregano if you can find it)
• 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
• 1 tablespoon red wine vinegar (or lemon juice for a tangier twist)
• 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice (optional)
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
• Fresh parsley (optional, for garnish)

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Vegetables:

• Begin by chopping the tomatoes into wedges or large chunks. Place them in a large salad bowl.
• Peel and slice the cucumber into half-moons or quarter it lengthwise before slicing.
• Slice the red onion thinly, and add it to the bowl.
• Slice the green bell pepper into thin strips or rings, then add to the mix.

2. Add Olives and Feta:

• Add the Kalamata olives (whole or halved) to the bowl.
• Place the feta cheese on top of the salad in large blocks or crumble it over the vegetables. The feta should be generous and intact, so it can be scooped up with each bite.

3. Season and Dress:

• Sprinkle the salad with dried oregano and season with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste.
• Drizzle with olive oil, red wine vinegar, and lemon juice (if using). Toss gently to combine everything, but be careful not to break up the feta too much.

4. Garnish and Serve:

• Garnish with a sprinkle of fresh parsley (optional) for a burst of color and freshness.
• Serve the Taverna Salad chilled or at room temperature, ideally alongside a plate of warm pita bread or as part of a Mediterranean meal.

Tips for the Best Taverna Salad:

• Use high-quality olive oil: Since the dressing is simple, the flavor of the olive oil really shines through. Opt for a good extra virgin olive oil for the best taste.
• Feta cheese: Choose a Greek-style feta (preferably made from sheep’s milk) for a more authentic taste. The feta should be crumbly and creamy, not too dry or firm.
• Fresh herbs: Fresh oregano can be used if available, but dried oregano works perfectly in this salad as well.
• Additions: Some variations of Taverna Salad might include a few capers, green olives, or even a sprinkle of red pepper flakes for a bit of heat. You can also add some chopped fresh mint or dill for extra flavor.
• Chill before serving: Allow the salad to sit for a few minutes after dressing to let the flavors meld. If you have time, chill it in the fridge for 15-20 minutes before serving.

Serving Suggestions:

• Taverna Salad pairs beautifully with a variety of Mediterranean dishes, such as grilled meats (lamb, chicken, or beef), souvlaki, or gyro.
• Serve it as a side dish with hummus, tzatziki, and pita bread for a light but satisfying meal.
• You can also enjoy it with grilled fish or as a refreshing starter for a dinner party or casual meal.

This Taverna Salad captures the essence of Greek cuisine with its fresh, tangy flavors and simple ingredients. It’s an ideal dish for warm weather, providing a burst of freshness and making a perfect accompaniment to a Mediterranean feast!