How to Make Greek Salad Dressing
How to Make Greek Salad Dressing 🥗 is a easy Greek recipe that serves 4. 200 calories per serving. Recipe by Steve | The Vivaldi Way on YouTube.
Prep: 12 min | Cook: PT0M | Total: 22 min
Cost: $20.88 total, $5.22 per serving
Ingredients
- 1 cup Extra Virgin Greek Olive Oil (use a high‑quality Greek olive oil for authentic flavor)
- 0.25 cup Red Wine Vinegar (adds acidity; choose a good quality vinegar)
- 4 teaspoons Lemon Juice (freshly squeezed is best)
- 1 teaspoon Salt (prefer sea salt or kosher salt)
- 1 teaspoon Dried Oregano (Greek oregano if available)
- 2 medium Cucumber (thinly sliced; seedless preferred)
- 0.5 cup Shallots (pre‑cut or thinly sliced)
- 2 tablespoons Fresh Dill (chopped; generous amount for authentic flavor)
- 0.5 cup Feta Cheese (crumbled; Greek feta preferred)
- 5 pieces Pepperoncini (whole, sliced if desired)
- 0.25 cup Kalamata Olives (pitted, halved)
- 1 pinch Additional Dried Oregano (for sprinkling on top)
Instructions
Prepare the Dressing
In a mixing bowl combine 1 cup extra virgin Greek olive oil, ¼ cup red wine vinegar, 4 teaspoons lemon juice, 1 teaspoon salt, and 1 teaspoon dried oregano. Secure a lid or cover with plastic wrap and shake vigorously until the mixture emulsifies.
Time: PT2M
Chill the Dressing
Transfer the dressing to a sealed container and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes; it will thicken and develop flavor.
Time: PT30M
Temperature: 4°C
Slice the Cucumbers
Trim the ends of the cucumbers and slice them thinly (about 1‑2 mm) using a sharp knife or mandoline.
Time: PT3M
Combine Salad Base
Place the sliced cucumbers in a large salad bowl. Add the pre‑cut shallots and 2 Tbsp chopped fresh dill. Toss gently to distribute.
Time: PT3M
Add Toppings
Crumble ½ cup feta over the salad, scatter the pepperoncini pieces, add ¼ cup halved Kalamata olives, and sprinkle a pinch of dried oregano.
Time: PT2M
Dress the Salad
Remove the dressing from the fridge, let it sit a few minutes to soften, then drizzle over the salad. Toss gently until everything is lightly coated.
Time: PT2M
Serve
Serve immediately or keep refrigerated (covered) for up to 2 days. Bring to room temperature before serving for best flavor.
Time: PT0M
Nutrition Facts
- Calories
- 200
- Protein
- 5 g
- Carbohydrates
- 8 g
- Fat
- 18 g
- Fiber
- 2 g
Dietary info: Vegetarian, Gluten-Free
Allergens: Milk
Ingredient Substitutions
- Instead of Extra Virgin Greek Olive Oil: Extra Virgin Olive Oil (any region)
- Instead of Red Wine Vinegar: White wine vinegar, Apple cider vinegar (use less)
- Instead of Lemon Juice: Lime juice
- Instead of Salt: Kosher salt, Sea salt
- Instead of Dried Oregano: Fresh oregano (use 1 tbsp)
- Instead of Cucumber: Zucchini (thinly sliced)
- Instead of Shallots: Red onion (finely diced)
- Instead of Fresh Dill: Fresh parsley (less flavor)
- Instead of Feta Cheese: Cotija cheese, Paneer (for non‑Greek)
- Instead of Pepperoncini: Pickled banana peppers
- Instead of Kalamata Olives: Greek black olives
- Instead of Additional Dried Oregano: Fresh oregano
Equipment Needed
- Measuring Cup
- Measuring Spoons
- Mixing Bowl
- Whisk or Shaker Bottle
- Knife
- Cutting Board
- Salad Bowl
- Tongs or Salad Servers
Critical Steps — Do Not Skip
- Emulsify the dressing thoroughly
- Slice cucumbers thinly
- Generously add fresh dill
- Allow dressing to chill and thicken
Chef Tips from the Video
- For extra brightness, add a teaspoon of honey to the dressing.
- Toast the dill briefly in a dry pan for a nutty aroma, then chop and add.
Troubleshooting
Dressing separates after chilling
Give it a quick shake or whisk before adding to the salad.
Cucumbers become soggy
Slice thinly and toss with dressing just before serving; keep cucumbers dry.
Salad is too salty
Add a splash of extra olive oil or a few more cucumber slices to balance.
Storage
Refrigerator: Dressing: up to 2 weeks in a sealed jar. Salad: up to 2 days, keep covered.
Freezer: Not recommended for this fresh salad.
Room temperature: Serve at room temperature; do not leave unrefrigerated for more than 2 hours.
Make-Ahead Tips
- The dressing can be prepared up to a week in advance; store in the refrigerator and shake before use.
- Prepare the cucumber and shallot mixture ahead, then add feta and olives just before serving.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the cultural significance and history of Greek Salad in Greek cuisine?
Greek Salad, or Horiatiki, is a staple of Mediterranean dining that dates back to ancient Greece, where fresh vegetables, olives, and cheese symbolized the region’s bounty. It embodies the Greek philosophy of simple, high‑quality ingredients combined with olive oil, reflecting the country’s agricultural heritage.
What are the traditional regional variations of Greek Salad in Greece?
In the islands, the salad often includes capers and a splash of local citrus juice, while in mainland Greece, larger chunks of tomato and a generous drizzle of extra‑virgin olive oil are common. Some regions add anchovies or a sprinkle of sumac for extra tang.
What is the authentic traditional way Greek Salad is served in Greece?
Traditionally, Greek Salad is served at room temperature on a large platter, drizzled with high‑quality olive oil and a pinch of dried oregano, without lettuce. It is accompanied by crusty bread to soak up the oil and often enjoyed with a glass of retsina or ouzo.
What occasions or celebrations is Greek Salad traditionally associated with in Greek culture?
Greek Salad appears at everyday meals, family gatherings, and festive occasions such as name‑days and summer barbecues. Its fresh, light nature makes it a perfect side for grilled fish, souvlaki, or as part of a mezze spread during celebrations.
How does Greek Salad fit into the broader Mediterranean cuisine tradition?
Greek Salad exemplifies the Mediterranean diet’s emphasis on vegetables, olive oil, and moderate cheese, providing heart‑healthy fats and antioxidants. It showcases the region’s reliance on seasonal produce and simple preparation methods that highlight natural flavors.
What are the authentic traditional ingredients for Greek Salad versus acceptable substitutes?
Authentic ingredients include cucumbers, tomatoes, red onions or shallots, Kalamata olives, feta cheese, fresh oregano or dill, and Greek extra‑virgin olive oil. Substitutes can be red bell pepper for tomato, feta alternatives like goat cheese, or other olives if Kalamata are unavailable.
What other Greek dishes pair well with this Greek Salad?
Pair the salad with grilled lamb souvlaki, baked fish with lemon, spanakopita (spinach pie), or a side of roasted potatoes. The bright acidity of the salad balances richer meat dishes and complements other Mediterranean mezze.
What makes this Greek Salad dressing special compared to other vinaigrettes?
The dressing uses a high proportion of Greek olive oil and combines red wine vinegar with fresh lemon juice, creating a balanced acidity that highlights the fresh herbs. Its simplicity lets the quality of the oil shine, and it thickens nicely after chilling, giving a luxurious mouthfeel.
What are the most common mistakes to avoid when making this Greek Salad?
Common errors include over‑salting the dressing, using too much vinegar which can overpower the oil, and slicing cucumbers too thick so they stay soggy. Also, adding the dressing too early can make the vegetables wilt; dress just before serving.
Why does this Greek Salad recipe use dill as a key herb instead of just oregano?
Dill provides a fresh, slightly sweet note that pairs especially well with the lemon‑lemony dressing, while oregano adds the classic earthy Greek flavor. The combination creates a more complex herb profile than oregano alone.
Can I make this Greek Salad ahead of time and how should I store it?
Yes, prepare the dressing up to a week in advance and keep it sealed in the refrigerator. Assemble the vegetables and herbs, then store them in an airtight container; add feta, olives, and dressing just before serving to maintain texture.
What does the YouTube channel Steve | The Vivaldi Way specialize in?
The YouTube channel Steve | The Vivaldi Way focuses on simple, home‑cooked Mediterranean recipes, especially Greek and Italian dishes, with an emphasis on quick preparation, authentic flavors, and cooking tips for everyday cooks.
How does the YouTube channel Steve | The Vivaldi Way's approach to Greek cooking differ from other Greek cooking channels?
Steve | The Vivaldi Way prioritizes ultra‑easy, minimal‑ingredient recipes that can be prepared ahead, contrasting with many channels that showcase more elaborate, traditional techniques. His style is relaxed, focusing on flavor balance rather than strict authenticity.
Last updated: August 14, 2026
