Greek Salad Stack with Feta and Olives

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Vegetables:

Begin by prepping your veggies. Slice the cucumber into thick, round slices (about 1/4-inch thick). Halve the cherry tomatoes, dice the red bell pepper, and thinly slice the red onion. If you haven’t already, pit and slice the Kalamata olives.

If you’re using block feta cheese, cut it into thick slices or large cubes. You can crumble it into smaller pieces later if desired.

2. Make the Dressing:

In a small bowl or jar, whisk together the olive oil, red wine vinegar, lemon juice, oregano, Dijon mustard (if using), and salt and pepper. Taste the dressing and adjust the seasoning as needed. If you like a little more tang, add extra lemon juice or vinegar. If you prefer it sweeter, a touch of honey can balance the acidity.

Give the dressing a final whisk before using it to dress the salad layers.

3. Assemble the Salad Stack:

Now comes the fun part—stacking the salad! If you have a ring mold, it’s the perfect tool for achieving a neat, uniform stack. If not, you can simply layer the ingredients by hand.

Start with a layer of cucumber slices as your base, pressing them gently into the bottom of your plate or mold. Follow with a layer of halved cherry tomatoes, and then add a layer of diced red bell pepper. Next, top with a few slices of red onion and scatter a generous handful of Kalamata olives.

After each layer, lightly drizzle the salad with a little bit of the dressing to add flavor and moisture. Continue layering until you’ve built a beautiful, colorful tower. The final layer should be topped with crumbled or cubed feta cheese and a sprinkle of fresh parsley or oregano for a fragrant touch.

4. Garnish and Serve:

Once your salad stack is built, drizzle the remaining dressing over the top, and garnish with additional fresh herbs, such as parsley or oregano, for a vibrant finish. You can also sprinkle a little extra feta or olives on top for added flavor.

Serve immediately as a light lunch, side dish, or as an appetizer. If you’re preparing it in advance, assemble the salad without the dressing and cover it tightly. Add the dressing just before serving to keep the ingredients fresh and crisp.

Why You’ll Love Greek Salad Stack with Feta and Olives:

1. Fresh and Flavorful:
   This Greek Salad Stack is bursting with fresh, vibrant flavors. The crispness of cucumber, the juiciness of tomatoes, and the brininess of olives and feta all come together in perfect harmony. The tangy dressing brings everything together, elevating the flavors and giving the salad an extra burst of Mediterranean flair.
2. Healthy and Nutritious:
   Packed with fresh vegetables, healthy fats from olive oil and feta cheese, and antioxidant-rich olives, this salad is not only delicious but also incredibly nutritious. It’s low in carbs and high in fiber, making it a great choice for anyone looking for a light yet satisfying meal.
3. Visually Stunning:
   The stacked presentation of this salad makes it a showstopper at any gathering. The layers of colorful vegetables and creamy feta cheese create a striking visual that will make your guests take notice. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or enjoying a quiet meal at home, this salad is guaranteed to impress.
4. Easy to Customize:
   One of the best things about this salad is its versatility. While the classic Greek ingredients are always delicious, you can easily swap out or add ingredients to suit your tastes. Try adding Kalamata olives, green olives, or capers for different briny flavors. You can also add a handful of arugula or spinach for extra greens or toss in some grilled chicken, shrimp, or chickpeas for added protein.
5. Perfect for Meal Prep:
   Not only is this salad great for entertaining, but it’s also perfect for meal prepping. The ingredients can be assembled ahead of time, and the dressing can be kept separate until you’re ready to serve. The fresh veggies and feta will keep well in the fridge for a few days, making it an ideal make-ahead dish for busy weeknights or lunch on the go.
6. Great for Any Occasion:
   Whether you’re having a light lunch, a dinner party, or a family BBQ, this Greek Salad Stack is the perfect addition to any meal. It pairs wonderfully with grilled meats, fish, or even as a standalone dish for a refreshing, lighter option.

Tips for Perfecting Your Greek Salad Stack:

• Use a Mold for Neat Stacking: If you want a perfectly structured stack, consider using a ring mold or a mason jar lid to keep your layers even and tightly packed. This will help create that beautiful, towered look that’s so eye-catching.
• Go for Fresh, High-Quality Ingredients: Since this salad features such simple ingredients, the quality of each component really shines through. Use ripe, juicy tomatoes, crisp cucumbers, and high-quality feta cheese for the best flavor.
• Don’t Overdo the Dressing: While the dressing is important for adding flavor, you don’t want to overwhelm the salad with too much. Drizzle lightly over each layer, tasting as you go, so you don’t end up with a soggy salad.
• Use Seasonal Veggies: This salad is perfect for showcasing seasonal produce. Use what’s fresh and in season, whether that’s heirloom tomatoes, cucumbers, or even bell peppers. You can also add roasted veggies, like roasted red peppers or zucchini, for a heartier version.
• Layer Thoughtfully: For the best presentation, start with the hardest vegetables (like cucumbers and peppers) at the bottom and build upwards, ending with the creamy feta and olives on top. This ensures a beautiful arrangement that holds together well.

Final Thoughts:

The Greek Salad Stack with Feta and Olives is a refreshing and flavorful dish that’s as fun to make as it is to eat. Whether you’re craving a light lunch, a vibrant side dish, or a show-stopping appetizer, this salad is guaranteed to be a crowd-pleaser. The crisp vegetables, tangy feta, briny olives, and zesty dressing create a Mediterranean flavor explosion that’s both satisfying and nourishing.

So next time you’re in the mood for something fresh, light, and full of flavor, grab your veggies, feta, and olives, and start stacking! Your taste buds—and your guests—will thank you.