Classic Greek Salad

Picture Credit to the Original Owner

Imagine biting into a buttery, flaky puff pastry filled with creamy, sweetened cream cheese and topped with juicy strawberries. It’s the kind of pastry that feels indulgent yet comforting—a treat that’s perfect for breakfast, brunch, or even dessert. Strawberry Danish with cream cheese is one of those classic recipes that look bakery-fancy but are surprisingly easy to make at home.

This recipe is all about thoughtfully combining simple, everyday ingredients to create a truly stunning and delightful result. Whether you’re hosting a leisurely brunch with friends or simply treating yourself to a cozy, slow morning at home, these Strawberry Cream Cheese Danishes are sure to bring a warm smile to anyone’s face. Let’s dive into the step-by-step process and discover how to make these irresistibly delicious pastries from scratch.

Classic Greek Salad

Ingredients

• 2 large tomatoes, chopped into wedges

• 1 cucumber, sliced into half-moons

• ½ red onion, thinly sliced

• 1 green bell pepper, sliced

• ½ cup Kalamata olives

• 6 ounces feta cheese, cut into blocks or crumbled

• 3 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil

• 1 tablespoon lemon juice

• 1 teaspoon dried oregano

• Salt and black pepper, to taste

Preparing the Ingredients:

Step 1: Prepare the Vegetables:

Start by washing all the vegetables thoroughly. Chop the tomatoes into wedges, slice the cucumber into thin half-moons, and cut the bell pepper into strips. Thinly slice the red onion for a slight crunch and a hint of sharpness.

Step 2: Assemble the Salad:

In a large salad bowl, combine the chopped tomatoes, cucumbers, bell pepper slices, and red onion. Toss gently to mix the vegetables evenly. Scatter the Kalamata olives over the top, adding that signature Greek brininess to the dish.

Step 3: Add the Feta Cheese:

Traditional Greek salads don’t crumble the feta; instead, they place large chunks of it on top of the salad. This not only looks beautiful but also allows you to break off pieces as you eat, keeping the texture intact. However, if you prefer, you can crumble it over the top for an even distribution.

Step 4: Make the Dressing:

In a small bowl, whisk together the extra virgin olive oil, lemon juice, dried oregano, salt, and black pepper. This simple yet flavorful dressing ties everything together with a bright and slightly tangy finish.

Step 5: Dress the Salad & Serve

Drizzle the dressing over the salad just before serving. Lightly toss everything together to ensure every bite is coated with the delicious dressing. Serve immediately for the freshest flavor!

Helpful Tips for the Best Greek Salad:

Use the freshest ingredients. Since this salad relies on raw vegetables, using ripe, high-quality produce makes all the difference.

Don’t overmix. Gently toss the salad to keep the ingredients intact and avoid making it mushy.

Opt for authentic feta cheese. Greek feta cheese made from sheep’s milk has the creamiest texture and best flavor.

Let the flavors meld. If you have time, let the salad sit for 10-15 minutes before serving to allow the dressing to infuse the vegetables.

Customize to your taste. Add fresh herbs like basil or parsley for extra flavor, or toss in some capers for more briny goodness.