Vegan Greek Salad

A vegan Greek salad is a salad for any time of year. Full of colorful veggies, tangy flavors, and whole food ingredients, this plant-based version of the Mediterranean classic is as good for you as it is tasty. Whether you need a lunch, a side dish, or a light dinner, this vegan Greek salad is a winner. It's gluten-free, nut-free, and deliciously healthy.

This recipe makes four dinner-size salads. It's also gluten-free and nut-free.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

1. Fresh and Healthy: This salad is bursting with the natural flavors of crunchy cucumbers, sweet, juicy cherry tomatoes, savory red onion, and kalamata olives. This salad is a vitamin and mineral bomb.
2. Quick and Easy: Prep time is 15 minutes if you make the vegan feta ahead of time.
3. Versatile: Serve as a main, side, or stuff into a pita for a satisfying Mediterranean wrap.
4. Dairy-free Feta: Feta is swapped for a plant-based vegan version, so it's low in saturated fat and cholesterol-free.

Vegan Greek Salad Ingredients

This recipe uses more of a traditional Greek salad dressing. If, however, you prefer a no oil version, check out this super yummy and creamy oil free Greek dressing. Otherwise, for more of a traditional Greek salad dressing, you'll need:

1. Garlic
2. Oregano
3. Dijon mustard
4. Black pepper
5. Salt
6. Red wine vinegar
7. Lemon
8. Extra virgin olive oil

For the salad, you'll need:

1. Homemade vegan feta cheese (make ahead)
2. Romaine lettuce
3. Cherry tomatoes
4. Red onion
5. Green bell pepper
6. Kalamata olives, pitted
7. Cucumber
8. Pepperoncini

How to Prepare

1. Make the Vegan Feta

Prepare the homemade vegan feta cheese according to recipe instructions. The recommended marinating time is 12 hours or more (24 to 48 hours is best).

2. Make the Dressing

For a no oil version, check out this oil free Greek dressing.

Otherwise, for a more traditional Greek salad dressing, add garlic, seasonings, red wine vinegar, Dijon, and lemon juice to a mixing bowl and whisk to combine. Then drizzle in extra virgin olive oil and whisk well until emulsified. Set aside.

3. Prepare the Veggies

Rinse and dry chopped Romaine or salad greens. I love using a salad spinner for this. Set aside.

Cut cherry tomatoes in half or into bite-size chunks. Slice cucumbers, onions and bell pepper.

4. Assemble the Salad

Add greens to a large bowl or plate. Toss in prepared cherry tomatoes, cucumbers, onion, and bell pepper. Add pitted kalamata olives and pepperoncini. Crumble to add vegan feta with marinade sauce. Drizzle the salad dressing to the desired sauciness.

Serve immediately or chill for 15 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.

Leftovers should be stored separately, specifically, in four containers: (1) chopped Romaine or salad greens, (2) other veggies, (3) vegan feta, and (4) salad dressing. Assemble when ready to eat.

Vegan Greek Salad Pro Tips

1. Use fresh ingredients: The flavor of this salad relies on the quality of your veggies and herbs.
2. Customizable: Adjust the vinegar, olive oil, or seasoning the dressing to taste. Add or substitute ingredients like roasted red peppers, artichoke hearts, or avocado.
3. Prep ahead: Allow vegan feta to marinate for 24 to 48 hours, if possible. Use the extra homemade vegan feta for tomato avocado toast. So yummy!

Health Benefits

This vegan Greek salad is not only delicious but also super healthy:

• Antioxidant-rich: Tomatoes, bell peppers, and salad greens are packed with antioxidants that fight inflammation and promote overall health.
• Beneficial plant compounds: A good quality extra virgin olive oil contains plant polyphenols shown to boost immune system health.
• Protein-rich: The marinated vegan feta provides a plant-based protein boost, so this salad is filling and balanced.

Variations and Serving Suggestions

1. Add more greens: Toss in some arugula, spinach, or chopped kale for extra volume and nutrients.
2. Grains: Serve over cooked farro or quinoa for a bigger meal.
3. Nuts and seeds: Sprinkle toasted pine nuts, sunflower seeds, or pumpkin seeds for extra crunch.
4. Legumes: Add cooked chickpeas or lentils to give this salad an added protein and fiber boost.
5. Meal prep: Divide into meal prep containers for a quick lunch during the week.
6. Pairing options: Serve this delicious vegan Greek salad with warm pita bread, hummus, grilled veggies, or lemon rice or quinoa.

Frequently Asked Questions

This vegan Greek salad is a delicious combination of fresh ingredients, tangy flavors, and satisfying textures. If you're looking for a healthier version of a classic, this recipe will impress. Easy to make and versatile, it’s perfect for any occasion. Try it out and bring the Mediterranean to your kitchen today!