If you crave a fresh, vibrant burst of Mediterranean flavors, this Greek Salsa with Feta, Kalamata Olives, and Fresh Herbs Recipe is your new best friend. It’s a wonderfully simple yet utterly satisfying dish that brings together juicy tomatoes, tangy feta, and briny Kalamata olives, all enlivened by fragrant herbs and bright lemon juice. This salsa is perfect for adding a colorful, delectable twist to your meals, whether as a zesty dip, a salad topper, or an appetizer that will have everyone asking for seconds. Trust me, once you try this Greek Salsa with Feta, Kalamata Olives, and Fresh Herbs Recipe, it will become a staple in your kitchen repertoire.
Ingredients You’ll Need
These ingredients are thoughtfully chosen for their simplicity and powerful impact on the flavor, texture, and color of the salsa. Each component works harmoniously to create that authentic Greek taste you’ll love.
- 2 medium tomatoes, diced: The heart of the salsa, bringing juicy sweetness and vibrant red color.
- 1 small red onion, finely chopped: Adds a subtle sharpness and crunch that balances the tomatoes.
- 1/2 cucumber, diced: Introduces refreshing coolness and a crisp texture.
- 1/4 cup pitted Kalamata olives, chopped: Brings a rich, briny depth that is unmistakably Greek.
- 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese: Adds creamy saltiness and a delightful crumbly texture.
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley: Offers a burst of fresh, herbaceous flavor that brightens the dish.
- 1 tablespoon olive oil: The smooth, fruity binder that ties all flavors together.
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice: Injects zesty acidity that livens up the salsa.
- 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano: Gives an aromatic, earthy note typical of Greek cuisine.
- Salt and pepper to taste: Essential seasonings to enhance and balance all the flavors.
How to Make Greek Salsa with Feta, Kalamata Olives, and Fresh Herbs Recipe
Step 1: Combine the Vegetables
Start by tossing together the diced tomatoes, finely chopped red onion, diced cucumber, and chopped Kalamata olives in a medium mixing bowl. This fresh vegetable base gives the salsa a vibrant array of textures and tastes that make every bite exciting.
Step 2: Add Cheese and Herbs
Gently fold in the crumbled feta cheese and freshly chopped parsley, allowing their creaminess and herbal brightness to meld with the crisp vegetables without breaking up the feta too much.
Step 3: Prepare the Dressing
In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, lemon juice, dried oregano, salt, and freshly cracked pepper. This simple dressing infuses the salsa with classic Mediterranean flavors and helps marry all the ingredients beautifully.
Step 4: Toss the Salsa
Pour the dressing over the vegetable and cheese mixture. Toss gently but thoroughly so that every piece is lightly coated, ensuring each bite bursts with balanced flavor.
Step 5: Let It Rest
Allow the salsa to rest for at least 10 minutes. This gives the flavors a chance to mingle and settle, intensifying the overall taste and softening any sharp edges of the onions or lemon.
Step 6: Serve and Enjoy
Whether you spoon it over grilled meats, tuck it inside pita pockets, or just scoop it up with crunchy chips, this Greek Salsa with Feta, Kalamata Olives, and Fresh Herbs Recipe will make any meal shine.
How to Serve Greek Salsa with Feta, Kalamata Olives, and Fresh Herbs Recipe
Garnishes
A sprinkle of freshly chopped parsley or a few extra crumbles of feta on top makes this salsa look as irresistible as it tastes, giving it that final dash of color and texture.
Side Dishes
This salsa pairs beautifully with grilled chicken, lamb kebabs, or alongside a simple bowl of hummus and warm pita bread for a Mediterranean feast that’s full of contrasting yet complementary flavors.
Creative Ways to Present
Try serving this salsa in small appetizer glasses as a refreshing starter at your next gathering, or use it as a vibrant topping on avocado toast for a Mediterranean-inspired twist on breakfast or brunch. It’s versatile, colorful, and full of character!
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Keep any leftover Greek Salsa with Feta, Kalamata Olives, and Fresh Herbs Recipe in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will stay fresh and flavorful for up to 3 days, making it perfect for quick lunches or snacks.
Freezing
Because the fresh vegetables and feta lose their texture when frozen, I don’t recommend freezing this salsa. Instead, enjoy it fresh to fully appreciate the crisp, vibrant qualities it offers.
Reheating
This salsa is best served cold or at room temperature. If you want to enjoy it after refrigeration, just let it sit on the counter for 10-15 minutes to take the chill off before serving. Avoid heating it as that will soften the fresh vegetables and alter the flavors.
FAQs
Can I use other types of olives instead of Kalamata?
While Kalamata olives are key to achieving the authentic Greek flavor with their distinct briny and fruity notes, you can experiment with other olives like black or green ones, though the overall taste will be slightly different.
Is this salsa suitable for vegans?
The feta cheese in the recipe means it’s not vegan. However, you can substitute it with a vegan feta-style cheese or simply omit it for a dairy-free version that still bursts with flavor.
How long does it take to prepare this salsa?
It comes together in about 10 minutes, including chopping and mixing. The resting time is an added step to intensify flavors, but you can enjoy it right away if you’re in a hurry.
Can I add other herbs to this salsa?
Absolutely! Fresh dill or mint work beautifully here and add another layer of fresh, Mediterranean flavor to complement the parsley and oregano.
What can I serve this salsa with?
This Greek Salsa with Feta, Kalamata Olives, and Fresh Herbs Recipe is incredibly versatile. Serve it with grilled seafood, toss it into grain bowls, use it as a topping for baked potatoes, or simply enjoy it with crunchy crudités or chips for a delightful snack.
Final Thoughts
This Greek Salsa with Feta, Kalamata Olives, and Fresh Herbs Recipe is a celebration of fresh, vibrant ingredients coming together in perfect harmony. It’s easy to make, filled with bold flavors, and incredibly versatile, making it a joy to prepare and share. Give it a try and watch how it effortlessly elevates your meals while bringing a slice of the Mediterranean right to your table.
Print
Greek Salsa with Feta, Kalamata Olives, and Fresh Herbs Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Total Time: 10 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: Mediterranean
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
This refreshing Greek Salsa is a vibrant and healthy mix of fresh tomatoes, cucumber, red onion, Kalamata olives, and crumbled feta cheese, seasoned with oregano and tossed in a simple olive oil and lemon dressing. Perfect as a dip, topping, or accompaniment to grilled dishes, it offers a quick, flavorful Mediterranean-inspired side that comes together in just 10 minutes.
Ingredients
Vegetables and Olives
- 2 medium tomatoes, diced
- 1 small red onion, finely chopped
- 1/2 cucumber, diced
- 1/4 cup pitted Kalamata olives, chopped
Cheese and Herbs
- 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
Dressing
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Combine the vegetables: In a medium mixing bowl, combine the diced tomatoes, chopped red onion, diced cucumber, and chopped Kalamata olives.
- Add cheese and herbs: Add the crumbled feta cheese and chopped fresh parsley to the bowl. Mix gently to combine.
- Prepare the dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, lemon juice, dried oregano, salt, and pepper. Adjust seasoning to taste.
- Toss the salsa: Pour the dressing over the salsa mixture and toss gently to coat all ingredients evenly.
- Let it rest: Allow the salsa to sit for at least 10 minutes for the flavors to meld together.
- Serve: Serve with pita chips, tortilla chips, or as a topping for grilled meats or salads.
Notes
- Allowing the salsa to rest enhances the melding of flavors.
- Serve chilled or at room temperature for best taste.
- Great as a healthy appetizer or a light side dish.
- Can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 2 days but is freshest when served immediately.
