Tomatosalata(Tomato And Feta Cheese Salad)
A vibrant Mediterranean tomato and feta salad bursting with fresh flavors, olive oil, lemon, garlic, and herbs, perfect for light lunches or as a side dish.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Remove stem ends of tomatoes and cut into 1/2-inch cubes.
- Place the diced tomatoes in a medium-sized bowl.
- Beat crushed garlic, oregano, salt, and pepper into lemon juice.
- Blend in olive oil and beat well.
- Set aside the dressing for 10 minutes to allow flavors to blend.
- Toss the cubed tomatoes with feta cheese and olives.
- Pour the dressing over the salad and toss gently.
- Serve immediately.
Tips & Substitutions
For the best flavor, use vine-ripened tomatoes. If you prefer a creamier texture, consider substituting the feta with goat cheese. Fresh herbs like basil or parsley can also enhance the salad. Adjust the lemon juice to taste if you like it tangier. This salad can be made ahead of time; just add the dressing right before serving to keep the tomatoes fresh.
Serving Suggestions
This salad is perfect as a side dish for grilled meats or pairs beautifully with Greek Omelet For Two for a light lunch. Serve it alongside pita bread or as part of a Mediterranean feast. Add a sprinkle of extra oregano on top for an aromatic finish. It also works well as a refreshing appetizer.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. The salad may lose some of its freshness, but the flavors will still meld nicely. If you prefer to enjoy it cold, serve it straight from the fridge. Avoid reheating as it is best enjoyed cold.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Tomatosalata(Tomato And Feta Cheese Salad) contains roughly 605 calories, with 9g protein, 70g carbohydrates, and 42g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (206% of the Daily Value), dietary fiber (152% of the Daily Value), and calcium (123% of the Daily Value), and a good source of protein and vitamin A. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1209mg per serving (53% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this salad in advance?
Yes, you can prepare the salad a few hours in advance, but it's best to add the dressing just before serving to maintain the freshness of the tomatoes. If you mix it too early, the tomatoes might release water and become soggy.
What type of olives should I use?
Greek olives are traditional for this salad, but you can use black olives or Kalamata olives for a slightly different flavor. Make sure to pit them for easier eating.
Can I use different cheese?
Absolutely! While feta is traditional, you can substitute it with goat cheese or even a mild ricotta for a different texture and flavor. Just keep in mind that the taste profile will change slightly.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).