Forget that limp, pre-made Greek salad from the grocery store! Embrace the vibrant colors, crisp textures, and bold flavors of the Mediterranean with this authentic Greek salad recipe. We’re adding a twist with warm, pillowy homemade pita bread – perfect for scooping up every last delicious bite. Get ready for a taste sensation!

The Freshest Ingredients Make the Magic of Greek Salad

• Cucumbers: Choose crisp, seedless varieties like English cucumbers.
• Tomatoes: Ripe, juicy tomatoes burst with sweet-tart flavor. Cherry or grape tomatoes work beautifully.
• Red Onion: A little bite balances the other elements. Thinly slice for best results.
• Kalamata Olives: These beauties add a salty, briny punch. Look for pitted ones for easy eating.
• Feta Cheese: Opt for a block of feta; it’s creamier than pre-crumbled. Be generous!
• Extra Virgin Olive Oil: The good stuff adds richness to the dressing.
• Dried Oregano: The essence of Greek cuisine.
• Red Wine Vinegar: This brings the zing to your vinaigrette.

DIY Vinaigrette That’ll Make You Ditch the Bottled Stuff

Ingredients:

• 1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil
• 2 tablespoons red wine vinegar
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1/2 teaspoon Dijon mustard (adds a slight tang)
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• Salt and black pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Whisk it Up! Combine everything in a small jar and shake vigorously until all combined. Taste and adjust seasoning to your liking.

Warm Homemade Pita: Way Easier Than You Think

Ingredients:

• 1 cup warm water
• 1 teaspoon active dry yeast
• 1 teaspoon sugar
• 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 2 tablespoons olive oil

Instructions:

1. Activate the Yeast: Whisk yeast and sugar into warm water, let sit until foamy (about 5 mins).
2. Dough Time: Combine flour, salt, and olive oil, then add the yeast mixture. Knead until a smooth dough forms.
3. Rest & Rise: Let the dough rise in an oiled bowl for an hour, or until doubled in size.
4. Flatten and Cook: Divide dough into 6-8 pieces. Roll out thinly and cook in a hot skillet (no oil needed) until puffed and slightly browned on both sides.

Salad Assembly Masterclass

1. Chop! Dice cucumbers, tomatoes, and red onion into generous chunks.
2. Olive Overload: If your olives have pits, slice them in half and remove pits.
3. Crumble That Feta: Break large chunks for a rustic, authentic feel.
4. Green Blanket: Lay a large bed of lettuce (romaine is excellent here!).
5. Colorful Cascade: Scatter your chopped veggies and olives artfully on top.
6. Feta Fiesta: Crown your salad with crumbled feta – don’t be shy!
7. Dressing Drizzle: Drizzle vinaigrette sparingly at first; you can always add more.
8. Warm Pita Perfection: Serve immediately alongside your fresh Greek salad.

Tips for Greek Greatness

• Ingredient Upgrade: Get your hands on high-quality Greek feta and olive oil for an extra flavor boost.
• Make-Ahead Magic: Prep veggies and vinaigrette in advance, assemble just before serving.
• Pita Possibilities: Use leftover pita for hummus dips, mini pizzas, or wraps!

This salad is sunshine on a plate – healthy, light, and a burst of Mediterranean magic. I guarantee you’ll never want the boring store-bought version again!

Let me know if you have any specific questions or want fun variations within the recipe! 😊

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