If you’re craving a salad that bursts with flavor and texture while wrapping everything in a luscious, dreamy dressing, then this Creamy Greek Salad Recipe is about to become your new obsession. It’s a delightful twist on the classic Greek salad, featuring crisp romaine lettuce, tangy Kalamata olives, juicy tomatoes, and crunchy croutons, all tied together with a rich, homemade creamy dressing that sings with Mediterranean spices. Whether you’re looking for a quick lunch, a side for dinner, or a show-stopping dish for guests, this recipe delivers freshness with a luscious, creamy punch that will keep you coming back for more.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The magic of this Creamy Greek Salad Recipe lies in its simple, thoughtfully chosen ingredients. Each one plays a vital role, from the crisp lettuce providing fresh crunch to the creamy dressing that elevates every bite. Gather these pantry essentials and fresh veggies to bring this salad to life with vibrant colors, balanced flavors, and satisfying textures.
- ½ cup mayonnaise: Creates the creamy base for the dressing, giving it richness and smoothness.
- 3 Tbsp milk: Lightens the mayonnaise to achieve a perfect pourable consistency without losing the creaminess.
- 1 Tbsp red wine vinegar: Adds tangy brightness, a must for authentic Greek flavor.
- 1 Tbsp sugar: Balances the tartness and spices with just a touch of sweetness.
- 2 tsp Greek seasoning: Infuses the dressing with fragrant herbs and spices native to the Mediterranean.
- 1 tsp garlic powder: Brings savory depth that complements the fresh vegetables.
- Salt and pepper (to taste): Essential for seasoning and tying all the flavors together.
- 1 (9-oz) bag chopped romaine lettuce: The crisp, refreshing green base that holds all the salad’s vibrant ingredients.
- 1 cup sliced seedless cucumbers: Offers a cool, crunchy contrast to the creaminess of the dressing.
- 1 cup purchased croutons: Adds a delightful crispy texture and makes the salad more satisfying.
- ½ cup banana pepper rings: Delivers a zesty and mildly spicy tang that livens up every forkful.
- ½ cup grape or cherry tomatoes (halved): Bursts of sweetness and juiciness that brighten the salad.
- ½ cup chopped Kalamata olives: Provides briny complexity and a distinctive Greek character.
- ½ cup crumbled feta cheese: The creamy, salty finishing touch that truly makes this salad sing.
How to Make Creamy Greek Salad Recipe
Step 1: Make the Creamy Dressing
Start by whisking together the mayonnaise, milk, red wine vinegar, sugar, Greek seasoning, and garlic powder in a bowl. This combination forms a velvety dressing that is rich but perfectly balanced with tang and a subtle touch of sweetness. Season it with salt and freshly ground pepper to taste. Give it a good whisk until everything is harmoniously blended and smooth. This dressing is what sets this Creamy Greek Salad Recipe apart from your classic version, adding a luscious texture and intense flavor.
Step 2: Prepare the Fresh Salad Base
Grab a large bowl and combine your chopped romaine lettuce, sliced cucumbers, croutons, banana pepper rings, halved grape or cherry tomatoes, chopped Kalamata olives, and crumbled feta cheese. Each ingredient contributes its own texture and flavor—crisp greens, refreshing cucumbers, smoky olives, zesty peppers, and salty, tangy feta. Toss gently so the ingredients mingle but maintain their individual freshness.
Step 3: Dress and Toss
Drizzle a few spoonfuls of your creamy dressing over the salad and toss gently but thoroughly to coat all the ingredients. Keep adding dressing little by little until the salad is dressed to your liking. Often, some dressing will remain, which you can refrigerate for later or use as a dip. The beauty of this Creamy Greek Salad Recipe is that it allows you to control how creamy and saucy you want your salad to be, ensuring every bite is just right.
How to Serve Creamy Greek Salad Recipe
Garnishes
To elevate your presentation, consider sprinkling some fresh chopped parsley or oregano over the top for a pop of green and herbal aroma. A few additional crumbles of feta or extra Kalamata olives placed on the top can make the salad look invitingly abundant. For a slightly smoky crunch, a light dusting of paprika over the creamy dressing adds warmth and color that’s visually stunning.
Side Dishes
This salad pairs beautifully with grilled meats such as chicken souvlaki, lamb chops, or even a simple grilled fish. It also shines alongside warm pita bread and a side of hummus for a complete Mediterranean-themed meal. The creamy texture and robust flavors can complement spicy or smoky main dishes, balancing the palate and providing a refreshing respite.
Creative Ways to Present
Try serving this Creamy Greek Salad Recipe in individual mason jars for picnics or potlucks, layering the dressing at the bottom and toppings on top to keep everything fresh until ready to eat. Another idea is to use bell pepper halves as edible bowls, adding a fun, colorful twist that looks fantastic on any table. The creamy dressing also works well as a dip for crudités or pita chips, making this salad a versatile crowd-pleaser.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Store any leftover salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Because of the creamy dressing and fresh vegetables, it’s best eaten within 1 to 2 days to ensure the lettuce stays crisp and the flavors remain bright. Keeping the dressing separate and adding it before serving can help maintain the salad’s freshness if you plan to store it for longer.
Freezing
Freezing this salad is not recommended because the fresh vegetables and creamy dressing will lose their texture and separate once thawed. To enjoy this salad at its best, prepare the components fresh or store leftovers as noted.
Reheating
Since this is a fresh, cold salad, reheating is not applicable. It’s meant to be enjoyed chilled so the crisp textures and creamy dressing stay intact and refreshing every time.
FAQs
Can I make the dressing ahead of time?
Absolutely! The creamy dressing can be made in advance and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Just give it a quick whisk before using to recombine any separated ingredients.
What can I substitute for mayonnaise?
If you prefer a lighter version, Greek yogurt is a fantastic substitute that keeps the creaminess while adding a tangy kick to your Creamy Greek Salad Recipe.
Are there any variations to the Greek seasoning?
Yes! You can either buy a pre-made Greek seasoning blend or make your own using dried oregano, thyme, basil, marjoram, and a pinch of cinnamon for that unique Mediterranean flair.
Can I add protein to this salad?
Definitely. Grilled chicken, shrimp, or even chickpeas make excellent additions. They’ll transform this into a heartier meal while maintaining the salad’s vibrant flavors.
Is this salad gluten-free?
The salad ingredients themselves are gluten-free, but be sure to choose gluten-free croutons or omit them to keep the dish safe for those with gluten sensitivities.
Final Thoughts
This Creamy Greek Salad Recipe is pure joy in a bowl—fresh, flavorful, and luxuriously creamy without being heavy. It’s perfect for everyday meals or special occasions when you want a dish that stands out without requiring hours in the kitchen. Give this recipe a try and watch it quickly become a beloved staple on your table, bringing vibrant Greek-inspired flavors to your home anytime you need a refreshing, satisfying bite.
Print
Creamy Greek Salad Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Total Time: 15 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Salad
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: Greek
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
This Creamy Greek Salad is a vibrant and refreshing dish that combines crisp romaine lettuce, crunchy cucumbers, and zesty banana pepper rings with tangy Kalamata olives and creamy feta cheese. Tossed in a luscious homemade Greek-style dressing made with mayonnaise, red wine vinegar, and aromatic Greek seasoning, it’s perfect as a light lunch or a flavorful side for any meal.
Ingredients
Dressing
- ½ cup mayonnaise
- 3 Tbsp milk
- 1 Tbsp red wine vinegar
- 1 Tbsp sugar
- 2 tsp Greek seasoning
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Salad
- 1 (9-oz) bag chopped romaine lettuce
- 1 cup sliced seedless cucumbers
- 1 cup purchased croutons
- ½ cup banana pepper rings
- ½ cup grape or cherry tomatoes, halved
- ½ cup chopped Kalamata olives
- ½ cup crumbled feta cheese
Instructions
- Prepare the Dressing: In a medium bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, milk, red wine vinegar, sugar, Greek seasoning, and garlic powder until smooth and well combined. Season with salt and pepper to taste, adjusting seasoning as needed for a balanced and flavorful dressing.
- Combine Salad Ingredients: In a large salad bowl, add the chopped romaine lettuce, sliced cucumbers, croutons, banana pepper rings, halved grape or cherry tomatoes, chopped Kalamata olives, and crumbled feta cheese. Gently toss all the salad components to mix evenly.
- Toss the Salad with Dressing: Pour a portion of the prepared dressing over the salad and toss gently to coat the ingredients evenly. Continue adding and tossing the dressing to your preference, ensuring the salad is dressed but not soggy. You may have some dressing leftover, which can be reserved for later use.
Notes
- For a lighter version, substitute mayonnaise with Greek yogurt.
- The salad is best served immediately to keep the croutons crunchy.
- Leftover dressing can be refrigerated for up to 5 days.
- Add grilled chicken or shrimp to make it a complete meal.
- Adjust the sugar in the dressing based on your taste preference.
