Mary Berry Greek Salad Recipe [Tips & Tricks]

If you’re looking for a fresh, vibrant, and super flavorful salad, Mary Berry’s Greek Salad recipe is an absolute must-try!

Mary Berry, known for her classic and approachable recipes, has perfected this Mediterranean dish by balancing the crispness of cucumbers, the creaminess of feta, and the tang of olives and dressing in just the right way. It’s light, healthy, and comes together effortlessly, making it perfect for any occasion-from casual dinners to a side dish at your next barbecue. Trust me, once you try it, it’ll quickly become a favorite in your recipe collection!

Mary Berry Greek Salad Recipe

Ingredients Needed For Mary Berry’s Greek Salad

To recreate Mary Berry’s classic Greek salad, you’ll need fresh and simple ingredients that are full of flavor, and that come together to form a balanced, satisfying dish. Here’s a breakdown of what you’ll need:

1. Cucumber – The cucumber adds a crisp, refreshing texture to the salad. Choose a firm, unwaxed cucumber for the best taste. A cucumber with thin skin, like an English cucumber, works great since it’s often free from wax coating, making it ideal for salads.

2. Tomatoes – Ripe, juicy tomatoes are the backbone of a Greek salad. You’ll want to go for something that has a balance of sweetness and acidity, like vine-ripened tomatoes or cherry tomatoes. These provide a burst of flavor in every bite.

3. Red Onion – Thinly sliced red onion offers a subtle sharpness that complements the other vegetables. It’s important to slice it thinly so it doesn’t overpower the dish. You can also soak the slices in water for a few minutes to mellow out the flavor if desired.

4. Green Bell Pepper – This adds a slight bitterness and crunch to the salad. It’s an essential component, but be sure to slice it thinly so it doesn’t overpower the other ingredients.

5. Kalamata Olives – These dark, wrinkled olives have a rich, briny flavor that’s characteristic of Greek salads. Their salty, slightly tangy taste is a perfect contrast to the sweetness of the tomatoes and cucumber.

6. Feta Cheese – Feta is the star of this dish. Mary Berry’s version typically uses large blocks of feta, which are sliced or crumbled into the salad. Choose a high-quality feta, preferably from Greece, to get the authentic flavor.

7. Extra Virgin Olive Oil – The dressing is simple yet vital. A good-quality extra virgin olive oil adds richness and depth to the salad. Its fruitiness and smoothness balance the sharpness of the onions and the acidity of the tomatoes.

8. Dried Oregano – Greek salads are traditionally seasoned with dried oregano. It imparts a distinct, earthy, and slightly peppery flavor, which elevates the freshness of the vegetables.

9. Lemon – For a bit of zesty brightness, a squeeze of fresh lemon juice over the salad adds a citrusy punch. You could also drizzle in a bit of lemon zest for added complexity.

10. Red Wine Vinegar (Optional) – While not always essential, a splash of red wine vinegar can enhance the tangy flavor of the salad dressing. It balances the richness of the olive oil and gives the salad an extra layer of complexity.

Equipment Needed

Creating Mary Berry’s Greek Salad is simple and doesn’t require a lot of specialized equipment. However, a few basic tools will ensure everything is chopped, mixed, and served with ease:

1. Sharp Knife – A good sharp knife is crucial for slicing vegetables cleanly and efficiently. You’ll need it to thinly slice the cucumber, red onion, and green pepper, as well as to cut the feta into blocks or cubes.

2. Cutting Board – A sturdy cutting board will provide a safe surface to chop the ingredients. A plastic or wooden board works fine, but make sure it’s large enough to hold all the vegetables.

3. Salad Bowl – A large mixing bowl is necessary to combine all the ingredients together. A wide, shallow bowl helps distribute the ingredients evenly and makes it easier to toss everything together.

4. Measuring Spoons – For precise measurements of olive oil, vinegar, lemon juice, and dried oregano, measuring spoons will help you achieve the perfect balance of flavors.

5. Serving Plate or Dish – If you want to serve the salad in a more decorative way, a wide, flat serving plate works beautifully. This allows the salad to be arranged artfully with the feta sitting on top and the vegetables in a visually appealing manner.

6. Small Whisk or Fork – While Mary Berry’s Greek Salad typically doesn’t require much dressing preparation, having a small whisk or fork on hand is helpful if you decide to whisk together the olive oil, vinegar, lemon juice, and seasonings for an extra smooth dressing.

How To Make Mary Berry’s Greek Salad

Making Mary Berry’s Greek Salad is straightforward, but the key is in the freshness and quality of the ingredients. Follow these steps to create a vibrant, flavor-packed dish:

1. Prepare The Vegetables

   • Start by slicing the cucumber into thin half-moons or rounds. If you prefer, you can peel the cucumber partially for a nice visual effect.
   • Cut the tomatoes into wedges or large chunks. If you’re using cherry tomatoes, just halve them.
   • Slice the red onion very thinly. To reduce the sharpness, soak the onion slices in cold water for about 10 minutes, then drain them before adding them to the salad.
   • Slice the green bell pepper into thin strips or rings.

2. Prepare The Feta

   • Feta cheese is often served in large blocks, so you’ll need to slice it into generous cubes or crumble it into smaller pieces, depending on your preference.

3. Combine The Ingredients

   • In your salad bowl, combine the cucumbers, tomatoes, onion, green pepper, and Kalamata olives. Toss everything gently to mix.

4. Add The Feta

   • Place the slices or crumbles of feta cheese on top of the salad. Don’t mix it in too much, as you want to keep the chunks of feta intact.

5. Dress The Salad

   • Drizzle extra virgin olive oil generously over the salad. Then, if you’re using it, add a splash of red wine vinegar and a squeeze of fresh lemon juice.
   • Sprinkle a pinch of dried oregano over the top and give the salad a final gentle toss to distribute the dressing evenly.

6. Serve

   • You can serve the salad immediately, or let it sit for a few minutes to allow the flavors to meld together. Garnish with a few extra olives or a slice of lemon for added flair.

Expert Tips

1. Choose High-Quality Ingredients: The beauty of a Greek salad lies in the simplicity of the ingredients. Choose the freshest vegetables, the best-quality feta cheese, and high-quality olive oil. Authentic feta from Greece can make a noticeable difference in flavor.

2. Prepare in Advance: This salad is even better when allowed to sit for a short while. Preparing it in advance allows the olive oil and lemon to soak into the vegetables, creating a more flavorful salad. Just be sure to add the feta at the last minute to prevent it from becoming soggy.

3. Customize the Salad: While Mary Berry’s recipe is classic, you can always add your twist. Some people like to include capers, or even a few sprigs of fresh basil for added flavor. Just keep the balance of the ingredients in mind.

4. Use the Right Olive Oil: Extra virgin olive oil is the key to a rich and flavorful dressing. Don’t skimp on the quality of the oil, as it adds depth to the entire dish.

5. Adjust the Acidity: If you like a tangier salad, feel free to add more lemon juice or vinegar. If you prefer a milder flavor, adjust the dressing accordingly. You can also substitute balsamic vinegar if you want a more robust flavor.

Mary Berry’s Greek Salad is a perfect example of how simple, high-quality ingredients can come together to create something incredibly satisfying. Whether you’re preparing it for a light lunch or as a refreshing side dish for a larger meal, this salad offers vibrant flavors and textures that burst with freshness. The crisp vegetables, tangy feta, salty olives, and fragrant oregano all work in harmony to create a deliciously balanced dish.

The beauty of this Greek salad lies in its versatility. You can tweak it to suit your taste, but the core principles of using fresh produce and authentic Mediterranean ingredients remain unchanged. Whether served as a part of a Mediterranean feast or on its own, Mary Berry’s Greek Salad is sure to impress and satisfy every time.

Easy Recipe Variations For Mary Berry’s Greek Salad

Mary Berry’s Greek Salad is a classic dish celebrated for its vibrant colors, fresh ingredients, and bold Mediterranean flavors. While her version is already a perfect blend of taste and simplicity, there are a number of easy recipe variations that can elevate or change the dish to suit your preferences or dietary needs. Here are some variations you can experiment with:

1. Add More Protein

   Greek salad can be made heartier by incorporating proteins like grilled chicken, shrimp, or lamb. Grilled halloumi cheese can also be a delicious alternative for a vegetarian option, offering a satisfying texture and rich flavor. Adding a boiled egg can also turn the salad into a more filling meal, especially if you’re looking for a high-protein lunch.

2. Swap the Dressing

   Mary Berry’s dressing, a simple vinaigrette with olive oil, lemon juice, oregano, and salt, is a great start, but you can experiment by adding different flavors. For example, a balsamic vinegar dressing could add a tangy sweetness that complements the tomatoes and cucumbers well. Alternatively, a creamy dressing like tzatziki can be added to bring a refreshing coolness to the salad.

3. Incorporate Grains

   For those looking for a more substantial dish, consider adding quinoa or couscous to the salad. These grains blend beautifully with the fresh ingredients, providing texture and making the salad more filling. They also absorb the dressing, infusing each bite with added flavor.

4. Try a Different Cheese

   While traditional Greek salad uses feta cheese, you can mix things up by experimenting with other cheeses such as goat cheese, which offers a tangier profile, or ricotta salata for a firmer, less crumbly texture. For a dairy-free alternative, you can try a plant-based feta cheese made from almonds or cashews.

5. Add More Vegetables

   To elevate the salad further, try including other Mediterranean vegetables such as roasted red peppers, artichokes, or even olives stuffed with garlic or almonds. These additions create a richer, more varied flavor profile while keeping the salad’s fresh essence intact.

6. Spicy Kick

   If you enjoy a bit of heat, throw in some sliced jalapeños or a sprinkle of red pepper flakes to give the salad a spicy kick. The heat will balance out the coolness of the cucumbers and feta, creating a more complex and exciting flavor contrast.

These variations not only give you the opportunity to play with different textures and flavors but also allow you to cater to personal tastes or dietary restrictions. Whether you’re keeping it simple or going all out with additional ingredients, Mary Berry’s Greek salad is a wonderfully adaptable dish.

Best Practices To Store Leftovers

Greek salad is best enjoyed fresh, as the crisp vegetables and the lightness of the dressing make it a refreshing dish. However, if you find yourself with leftovers, it’s important to store them properly to preserve the flavor and texture for as long as possible.

1. Separate Dressing from Salad

   One of the key factors in preserving Greek salad leftovers is preventing the vegetables from becoming soggy. To do this, always store the dressing separately in an airtight container.

   You can then drizzle it over the salad just before serving again. This ensures that the veggies remain crisp and fresh when you’re ready to eat.

2. Use Airtight Containers

   When storing the leftover salad, place it in an airtight container to minimize exposure to air, which can cause the vegetables to wilt or spoil. Ensure the container is tightly sealed to keep the salad’s freshness intact for as long as possible. This also helps preserve the integrity of the feta cheese and any other toppings you have added.

3. Store in the Refrigerator

   Greek salad should always be stored in the fridge to slow down the degradation of the vegetables. The cold temperature helps maintain the crispness of the cucumbers and bell peppers, as well as keeping the feta cheese from spoiling too quickly. Ideally, consume the salad within 1-2 days of storing, as tomatoes and cucumbers tend to lose their freshness quickly.

4. Avoid Storing Mixed Salad

   If you’re storing leftovers, try not to mix all the ingredients together if possible. It’s always better to keep the ingredients separate, especially if you know you won’t finish it all at once. This way, you can add the dressing just before serving and avoid the salad becoming too soggy.

5. Revive the Salad

   If the salad has been stored for a day or two and the vegetables have softened, you can revitalize it by adding fresh ingredients such as extra greens, cucumbers, or tomatoes. Tossing in a bit of extra seasoning or dressing can also give the salad a fresh flavor boost.

By following these best practices, you can ensure your Greek salad leftovers will stay fresh and flavorful, providing you with a delicious meal the next day.

What Goes Well With Greek Salad

Greek salad, with its tangy feta, crunchy cucumbers, and juicy tomatoes, is versatile enough to pair with a wide range of dishes. Whether you’re looking to make it a full meal or serve it as a side, here are some fantastic options that go well with Greek salad:

1. Grilled Meats

   The bold flavors of Greek salad complement grilled meats, particularly those with Mediterranean-inspired seasoning. Grilled chicken, lamb chops, or skewers of shish kebab are excellent choices. The smoky, savory flavors of the meat pair wonderfully with the freshness of the salad.

2. Pita Bread

   Soft, warm pita bread is a perfect accompaniment to Greek salad. You can use it to scoop up the salad or to enjoy with a side of hummus or tzatziki for a more filling meal. The bread helps balance the acidity of the salad’s tomatoes and lemon juice while offering a comforting texture.

3. Seafood

   Greek salad’s fresh ingredients work wonderfully with seafood, making it a perfect side dish for grilled fish, calamari, or shrimp. The lightness of seafood complements the crispness of the vegetables, and the feta adds a rich saltiness that enhances the natural sweetness of seafood.

4. Cheese and Charcuterie

   If you’re looking for a lighter yet satisfying meal, pairing Greek salad with a platter of Mediterranean cheeses (like goat cheese or manchego) and cured meats (such as prosciutto or salami) can create a great balance of flavors. The richness of the cheeses and the saltiness of the meats contrast with the freshness of the salad.

5. Roasted Vegetables

   Roasted vegetables, particularly those commonly found in Mediterranean cuisine like eggplant, zucchini, and bell peppers, are a fantastic addition to Greek salad. The sweetness from the roasting process pairs perfectly with the salad’s savory feta and tangy dressing.

6. Pasta Dishes

   A Greek salad can be an excellent side to pasta dishes, particularly those with Mediterranean-inspired sauces. A light pasta with olive oil, garlic, and fresh herbs, or a simple tomato-based pasta, works well with the salad’s flavors. The freshness of the vegetables balances the richness of the pasta sauce, making for a harmonious meal.

Conclusion

Mary Berry’s Greek Salad is a timeless and delightful dish that shines with its fresh ingredients and Mediterranean flair. Whether you’re preparing it as a side dish or a main course, it offers plenty of room for customization to fit your tastes or dietary preferences. With the ability to add proteins, swap cheeses, or experiment with different dressings, the salad is adaptable to suit any occasion.

By following best practices for storing leftovers, you can ensure that your Greek salad will stay fresh and tasty for the next day’s meal. Additionally, when paired with grilled meats, seafood, or pita bread, the Greek salad can become part of a larger Mediterranean-inspired feast that offers a perfect balance of flavors. Whether you’re entertaining guests or enjoying a solo meal, Greek salad remains a versatile, refreshing, and satisfying option to have in your culinary repertoire.

FAQs

What Ingredients Are Needed For Mary Berry’s Greek Salad?

Mary Berry’s Greek Salad requires fresh and simple ingredients including tomatoes, cucumber, red onion, bell peppers, Kalamata olives, feta cheese, olive oil, red wine vinegar, and dried oregano. You can also add salt and pepper to taste.

How Do You Make Mary Berry’s Greek Salad Dressing?

To make the dressing for Mary Berry’s Greek Salad, combine olive oil and red wine vinegar in a bowl. Add a pinch of dried oregano, salt, and pepper.

Whisk the ingredients together until well combined. Pour the dressing over the prepared salad just before serving.

Can I Use A Different Type Of Cheese Instead Of Feta In Mary Berry’s Greek Salad?

While feta cheese is the traditional choice for a Greek Salad, you can use other cheeses like goat cheese or even mozzarella for a different texture and flavor. However, it will alter the salad’s classic taste.

Should The Vegetables In Mary Berry’s Greek Salad Be Chopped Or Sliced?

For Mary Berry’s Greek Salad, vegetables should be sliced into bite-sized pieces. The cucumber can be sliced into rounds, the tomatoes into wedges, and the red onion into thin rings. This allows for a balanced bite with each ingredient.

Can I Prepare Mary Berry’s Greek Salad Ahead Of Time?

Yes, you can prepare the vegetables ahead of time and store them in the fridge. However, it is best to add the dressing just before serving to avoid the salad becoming soggy. The salad ingredients will stay fresh for a day or two in the refrigerator.

What Can I Serve Mary Berry’s Greek Salad With?

Mary Berry’s Greek Salad is versatile and can be served as a side dish or as part of a Mediterranean-inspired meal. It pairs wonderfully with grilled meats, seafood, or even as a light lunch when served with warm pita bread or couscous.

Can I Make Mary Berry’s Greek Salad Vegan?

Yes, you can make Mary Berry’s Greek Salad vegan by omitting the feta cheese or replacing it with a plant-based alternative such as vegan feta or avocado for a creamy texture. Ensure the dressing is made with just olive oil and vinegar, with no honey added.

How Long Can I Store Mary Berry’s Greek Salad?

Mary Berry’s Greek Salad is best enjoyed fresh, but it can be stored in the fridge for up to 1-2 days. If the dressing is already added, it may cause the vegetables to become soggy, so it’s better to store the salad components separately and combine them later.

What Makes Mary Berry’s Greek Salad Different From Other Greek Salad Recipes?

Mary Berry’s Greek Salad stands out for its simplicity and focus on fresh, quality ingredients. The dressing is light and flavorful, using olive oil and red wine vinegar with just a touch of oregano. Mary Berry’s approach emphasizes clean, balanced flavors, avoiding overly complex additions.

Can I Add Other Vegetables Or Ingredients To Mary Berry’s Greek Salad?

While Mary Berry’s Greek Salad sticks to the traditional ingredients, you can certainly add extra vegetables if desired. Bell peppers, radishes, or even a handful of arugula could be added for extra crunch and flavor, but these aren’t included in the original recipe.