Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Santorini Feta Stack Salad is a visually stunning and refreshingly simple dish inspired by the bold, clean flavors of Greek cuisine. With layers of creamy feta, ripe tomatoes, crisp cucumbers, and fragrant herbs, this salad feels elegant while remaining effortless to prepare. It is perfect as a light lunch, a side dish, or an appetizer that instantly elevates any table.
What makes this recipe especially appealing is its balance. The saltiness of feta pairs beautifully with the sweetness of tomatoes and the freshness of herbs, while olive oil ties everything together with richness. I tested this salad with both block feta and crumbled feta, and block feta proved far superior for clean layers and a more authentic texture. This dish is ideal for warm weather, entertaining, or anytime you want a meal that feels fresh, colorful, and satisfying without being heavy.
Santorini Feta Stack Salad: A Fresh Mediterranean-Inspired Showstopper
- Total Time: 10 mins
- Yield: 4 servings
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Santorini Feta Stack Salad is a fresh, vibrant Mediterranean-style salad featuring layered tomatoes, cucumbers, olives, red onions, and thick slices of feta drizzled with olive oil, herbs, and a touch of balsamic.
Ingredients
- 2 large tomatoes, sliced
- 1 large cucumber, sliced
- 1/2 red onion, thinly sliced
- 1 cup Kalamata olives
- 8 oz block of feta cheese, sliced thick
- 3 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
- 1 tbsp balsamic glaze (optional)
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- Fresh basil or parsley for garnish
Instructions
- Arrange sliced tomatoes in a circular pattern on a serving plate.
- Layer cucumber slices on top of the tomatoes.
- Add a layer of red onion slices and olives.
- Place thick slices of feta cheese over the stack.
- Drizzle olive oil generously over everything.
- Add balsamic glaze if using.
- Sprinkle oregano and black pepper over the top.
- Garnish with fresh basil or parsley and serve immediately.
Notes
- Use heirloom tomatoes for extra color and flavor.
- Replace balsamic with lemon juice for a brighter taste.
- Add capers for a more authentic Greek island flavor.
- Prep Time: 10 mins
- Cook Time: 0 mins
- Category: Salad
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: Greek
Ingredients
(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)
Feta cheese is the centerpiece of this salad, offering a creamy yet firm texture and a salty, tangy flavor that defines Mediterranean dishes.
Fresh tomatoes add juiciness, natural sweetness, and vibrant color, creating contrast with the feta layers.
Cucumber provides crisp texture and refreshing flavor, keeping the salad light and balanced.
Red onion adds mild sharpness and depth, enhancing the overall flavor without overpowering the dish.
Extra virgin olive oil brings richness and smoothness, binding the ingredients together with classic Mediterranean character.
Fresh oregano or basil contributes aroma and herbal freshness that lifts the entire salad.
Lemon juice adds brightness and subtle acidity, enhancing the natural flavors of the vegetables.
Black pepper sharpens and balances the flavors without overwhelming the delicate ingredients.
Directions
Begin by slicing the feta cheese into even, thick pieces suitable for stacking. Set aside.
Slice the tomatoes and cucumber into uniform rounds to ensure clean, attractive layers. Thinly slice the red onion.
On a serving plate, place a slice of tomato as the base. Top with a slice of feta, followed by cucumber and red onion. Repeat the layers until you achieve the desired height, finishing with feta on top.
Drizzle the stack generously with extra virgin olive oil and a small squeeze of lemon juice.
Season lightly with black pepper and scatter fresh herbs over the top. Serve immediately for best texture and flavor.
Equipment needed :
Must-Have Tools to Get Rolling
Here’s what you’ll want to have on hand:
Silicone Spatula – Durable, heat-resistant silicone spatula perfect for mixing, scraping, and spreading. Gentle on non-stick cookware and easy to clean.
Large pot – You’ll need this to boil the whole cabbage head and soften the leaves.
large bowl –Spacious, durable large bowl ideal for mixing, serving, or food preparation. Made from sturdy material and easy to clean.
Sharp knife – For coring the cabbage and slicing out the thick stem in each leaf. A paring knife works best.
Mixing bowl – A big bowl makes it easier to combine your meat and rice filling evenly.
Cutting board – For prepping cabbage leaves and rolling them like a pro.
Full-Size Blender – is a powerful kitchen appliance for making smoothies, soups, and sauces in large batches.
3-in-1 Air Fryer – This versatile 3-in-1 air fryer offers Air Fry for healthier meals with less oil, Bake for bakery-quality desserts and treats, and Reheat to bring leftovers back to life with crispy, flavorful results.
Servings and timing
This recipe serves two to four people. Preparation takes approximately 15 minutes, making it ideal for quick meals or last-minute entertaining.
Storage/reheating
Santorini Feta Stack Salad is best enjoyed fresh. If needed, store components separately in the refrigerator for up to one day and assemble just before serving. Reheating is not recommended.
Variations and Customizations
This salad is highly adaptable. Add Kalamata olives for extra briny depth or capers for a sharper bite. Roasted red peppers introduce sweetness and color.
For a heartier version, add a layer of avocado or serve the stack over toasted bread for a bruschetta-style presentation.
If you prefer a creamier finish, drizzle a small amount of balsamic glaze or honey over the top. These additions enhance the salad while preserving its Mediterranean character.
Nutrition and Dietary Info
Santorini Feta Stack Salad is naturally gluten-free and vegetarian. It provides healthy fats, fresh vegetables, and protein from feta, making it a light yet nourishing option.
Expert Tips & Customizations
Cheese Choice
Use block feta for best stacking and texture.
Tomato Quality
Ripe tomatoes make a noticeable difference in flavor.
Layer Balance
Keep slices uniform for stability and presentation.
Serving Time
Serve immediately to maintain freshness.
FAQs
Is this salad traditional Greek cuisine?
It is inspired by classic Greek flavors rather than a traditional dish.
Can I make this ahead of time?
Prepare ingredients in advance and assemble just before serving.
What tomatoes work best?
Heirloom or vine-ripened tomatoes are ideal.
Can I add olives?
Yes, Kalamata olives work very well.
Is this salad filling?
It is light but satisfying, especially as a starter.
Can I use crumbled feta?
Block feta is recommended for stacking.
Does it need salt?
Usually not, as feta provides enough saltiness.
Can I add protein?
Grilled chicken or shrimp can be served alongside.
What herbs work best?
Oregano and basil are excellent choices.
Can I double the recipe?
Yes, simply build multiple stacks.
Conclusion
Santorini Feta Stack Salad is a fresh, elegant dish that celebrates simple ingredients and bold Mediterranean flavors. With its beautiful presentation, clean taste, and quick preparation, it is perfect for warm days, casual entertaining, or light meals that still feel special. Once you try this salad, it is sure to become a go-to recipe whenever you want something fresh, vibrant, and effortlessly impressive.
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