Keto Greek Salad

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Keto Greek Salad is packed with healthy fats from olives, feta, and olive oil, making it perfect for a keto diet. It’s not only low-carb but also nutrient-dense, thanks to the variety of fresh vegetables like cucumbers, tomatoes, and red onions. The tangy dressing ties everything together, and the dish is easily customizable. You can add extra protein like grilled chicken or shrimp to make it a complete meal, or enjoy it as a side to complement any main course. Refreshing, colorful, and flavorful, this salad is a crowd-pleaser!

Ingredients

• 2 cups cucumbers, diced

• 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved

• 1/2 red onion, thinly sliced

• 1/2 cup Kalamata olives, pitted and sliced

• 1/2 cup feta cheese, crumbled or cubed

• 1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil

• 1 tbsp red wine vinegar

• 1 tsp dried oregano

• 1 tsp lemon juice (optional)

• Salt and pepper, to taste

• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

1. Prepare the Vegetables: In a large bowl, combine the diced cucumbers, halved cherry tomatoes, sliced red onion, and Kalamata olives.

2. Add the Feta: Add the crumbled or cubed feta cheese to the salad, making sure it’s evenly distributed.

3. Make the Dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, red wine vinegar, dried oregano, lemon juice (if using), and a pinch of salt and pepper. Adjust the seasoning to taste.

4. Toss and Serve: Drizzle the dressing over the salad and toss gently to coat all the ingredients. Garnish with fresh parsley for an added burst of color and flavor.

5. Serve: Enjoy the salad immediately, or refrigerate it for up to 2 hours before serving to allow the flavors to meld.

Servings and Timing

This recipe serves 4 people. The preparation time is about 10 minutes, and there’s no cooking involved, making it a quick and easy dish.

Variations

• Add Protein: To make this salad a complete meal, you can add grilled chicken, shrimp, or even grilled lamb to the salad.

• Vegetarian Option: If you want a more filling vegetarian option, add avocado for a creamy texture and extra healthy fats.

• Add Roasted Vegetables: For a twist, you can add roasted vegetables like bell peppers or zucchini to enhance the flavor profile.

• Spicy Version: Add some diced jalapeños or red pepper flakes to give the salad a spicy kick.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Store leftover Keto Greek Salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. The vegetables may release some moisture over time, so it’s best enjoyed fresh. However, the dressing will keep the salad flavorful.

• Reheating: This salad is best served chilled and doesn’t require reheating. Simply take it out of the fridge and enjoy it cold.

FAQs

1. Is this salad truly keto-friendly?

Yes, this salad is perfect for a keto diet! It’s low in carbohydrates, high in healthy fats, and packed with nutrient-dense vegetables and cheese. The dressing made from olive oil and vinegar adds to the healthy fats without increasing the carb count.

2. Can I make this salad ahead of time?

Yes, you can make this salad ahead of time, but it’s best to store the dressing separately and toss it with the vegetables just before serving to keep the salad crisp and fresh.

3. Can I use regular cheese instead of feta?

Feta is ideal for the Mediterranean flavors in this salad, but you can use any cheese you prefer, such as goat cheese, mozzarella, or even a sharp cheddar, though the flavor profile will change.

4. Can I add more vegetables to this salad?

Absolutely! You can add more low-carb vegetables like bell peppers, artichoke hearts, or even olives to make it heartier and more colorful.

5. How can I make this salad spicy?

To make the salad spicy, you can add chopped jalapeños, red pepper flakes, or even a drizzle of spicy olive oil to the dressing.

6. Can I use a different type of vinegar?

Yes, you can substitute red wine vinegar with other vinegars like white wine vinegar, apple cider vinegar, or balsamic vinegar, though it will change the flavor slightly.

7. How long does the salad last in the fridge?

This salad lasts about 1-2 days in the fridge, but the vegetables will release moisture the longer it sits, so it’s best when eaten within a day of making it.

8. Can I use a different type of olives?

Yes, you can use any type of olives you prefer. Green olives, black olives, or even mixed olives will work well in this salad.

9. Can I make the dressing in advance?

Yes, you can make the dressing ahead of time and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 1 week. Just shake or whisk it before using.

10. How can I make the salad more filling?

To make the salad more filling, you can add grilled chicken, turkey, or even chickpeas for added protein. Adding avocado also provides healthy fats and increases the heartiness of the salad.

Conclusion

Keto Greek Salad is a fresh, flavorful, and easy-to-make dish that is not only low in carbs but also full of Mediterranean goodness. With a variety of fresh vegetables, tangy feta, and a zesty olive oil dressing, this salad makes for a refreshing meal that can be enjoyed on its own or as a side dish. It’s a versatile recipe, so feel free to customize it with extra protein or vegetables to suit your preferences. Perfect for a keto-friendly lunch, dinner, or side, this Greek salad is sure to become a favorite in your kitchen!