Kolbeigh’s Greek Delight - A Little Bit of Heaven

Let’s talk about Greek salad. It’s more than just a salad – it's a *feeling*. It’s sunshine on a plate, a reminder of summers spent by the Aegean Sea. I remember my grandmother teaching me how to make it when I was a kid – it always involved a lot of laughter and a generous helping of olive oil. The key, I discovered then, is to use the *best* ingredients you can find, and to be willing to play around with them a little. It's a recipe that’s been passed down through generations, and it’s a beautiful reminder of my roots. And believe me, the substitutions – that’s where the *real* magic happens!

Today, we're making a classic Greek Salad - a vibrant blend of cucumber, tomatoes, red onion, Kalamata olives, feta cheese, and a simple lemon-herb dressing.

Here’s what you’ll need:

• 1 lb Cucumber, peeled, seeded, and sliced
• 1 lb Tomatoes, ripe but firm, chopped
• 1/2 Red Onion, thinly sliced (don’t worry, it's not as pungent as you might think!)
• 1/2 cup Kalamata Olives, pitted and halved
• 4 oz Feta Cheese, crumbled
• 1/4 cup Fresh Parsley, chopped
• For the Dressing:
• 3 tablespoons Olive Oil
• 2 tablespoons Red Wine Vinegar
• 1 clove Garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon Dried Oregano
• 1/2 teaspoon Salt
• 1/4 teaspoon Black Pepper

Now, let’s get to the recipe:

1. Step 1: Prepare the Vegetables: Wash and dry all the vegetables. Slice the cucumber into rounds. Chop the tomatoes and red onion. Slice the Kalamata olives.
2. Step 2: Make the Dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, red wine vinegar, minced garlic, oregano, salt, and pepper.
3. Step 3: Assemble the Salad: In a large bowl, combine the cucumber, tomatoes, red onion, olives, and feta cheese.
4. Step 4: Dress it Up: Pour the dressing over the salad and toss gently to combine.
5. Step 5: Garnish and Serve: Garnish with fresh parsley. Serve immediately or chill for later.

A little history, if you're curious: Greek salad is believed to have originated in the ancient Greek islands, and it’s a dish that celebrates the bounty of the land and the sea. It's a dish that's traditionally served at celebrations and gatherings, and it’s a testament to the importance of simple, fresh ingredients. I remember my grandmother always saying, 'A good salad is a conversation.' It’s a moment to connect with people and with the simple pleasure of good food.

Enjoy!