AUTHENTIC GREEK SALAD (HORIATIKI)
Looking for a healthy and refreshing meal? Look no further than this delicious and authentic Greek salad recipe.
Oh yes, the best ever: authentic Greek salad
The Greek salad is a dish that needs no introduction. It is the perfect representation of the Greek culinary culture. I have this recipe from the Greek mother of my son’s friend and I do not count how many times I realized it in London or in the South of France, as it is so good that you wish to eat it nearly every single day.
Greek salad’s timeless appeal
Greek salad, also known as ‘Horiatiki’, is a delicious and refreshing dish that has been a staple of Greek cuisine for many years. It is believed to have originated in the Plaka neighborhood of Athens during the first tourism boom in the 1960s and ’70s, but its roots can be traced back much further.
A dish inspired by peasant meals
The salad is thought to have been inspired by the simple summer meals of the Greek peasants. It was made with the freshest and most readily available ingredients, including juicy tomatoes, crisp cucumbers, and tangy onions. These were combined with salty feta cheese and drizzled with olive oil, creating a light and healthy meal that was perfect for hot summer days.
A recipe that has stood the test of time
Despite its humble origins, Greek salad has become one of the most popular dishes in the world. It is easy to make and can be customized to suit individual tastes. Some variations include the addition of olives, green peppers, or even grilled chicken. Ouzo (or Pastis) is obviously optional but it gives a “je ne sais quoi” very sunny indeed…
A dish that represents Greek culture
Greek salad is more than just a dish – it is a symbol of Greek culture and hospitality. It is often served as a side dish with a variety of Greek meals, and it is the perfect complement to grilled meats and seafood. The salad is also a popular option for vegetarians.
Discovering the refreshing Reuilly from the Loire Valley
When it comes to wine pairing, I recommend a Reuilly white wine from the Loire Valley. Its acidity and citrus notes balance out the saltiness of the feta cheese and the tanginess of the olives, creating a well-rounded and satisfying taste.
A wine with a refreshing acidity and herbaceous aromas
White Reuilly is typically made with Sauvignon Blanc grapes, and it’s known for its high acidity and herbaceous aromas. With notes of grass and citrus, this wine is the perfect complement to the freshness of a Greek salad. It’s light to medium-bodied and has delicate lime and floral aromas, along with green pepper and white peach notes.
A wine with a rich history
But the white Reuilly is more than just a refreshing wine – it’s a wine with a rich history. The vineyards have been around since the 1st century, and they were even gifted to the Abbey of St. Denis by the King of the Franks in the early 7th century. The Appellation Contrôlée for Reuilly was established in 1937, ensuring that only the highest quality wines could bear the Reuilly name.
The Chai de Reuilly and the Dukes of Bourbon-Parme
The Chai de Reuilly, where the wine is made, dates back to the early 1990s when advisors from the European Union helped develop it. Today, the Chai is owned by the Dukes of Bourbon-Parme, who are dedicated to preserving the tradition and quality of Reuilly wines.
Don’t settle for boring salads
So, get your daily dose of healthy greens with this delicious Greek salad recipe. It’s the perfect way to add some variety to your meals while keeping things fresh and flavourful! Enjoy the taste of Greece right in your own home.
Bring the substance of Greece to your table
Why not continuing your travel to Greece with these recipes :
Spanakopita, the spinach pie or the Cretan tomato salad (Dakos salata).
Do not forget to leave a comment and let me know how it turned out! And if you have any variation of this recipe that you would like to share, I would love to hear it. Be sure to check out my other easy-peasy recipes on the blog for more culinary inspiration!
Happy cooking and bonne dégustation!
Sixtine ;)
AUTHENTIC GREEK SALAD (HORIATIKI)
Ingredients
- 400 g tomatoes quartered
- 400 g cucumber sliced
- 1 sweet pointed pepper sliced
- 1 red onion finely chopped
- 20 Kalamata black olives stoned
- 150 g barrel-aged feta
- 1 tbsp capers
- 1 tbsp Ouzo or Pastis
- 6 tbsp olive oil finest
- oregano
Instructions
- In a large bowl, put the tomatoes with cucumber, pepper, red onion and olives.
- Drizzle with the oil, Ouzo, oregano and capers.
- Toss well and dispose the feta on top.
- Set aside in the fridge before enjoying it!
Notes
