What to Serve with Greek Salad: 32+ Perfect Side Pairings

Ever found yourself staring at a bowl of Greek salad, wondering what else to add to your plate? I’ve been there too!

As a long-time fan of European and Mediterranean cuisine, I’ve spent years experimenting with different combinations.

Today, I’m excited to share my favorite pairings that’ll turn your Greek salad into a show-stopping meal.

What is Greek Salad?

Before we dive into the perfect companions for Greek salad, let’s take a moment to appreciate this classic dish. A traditional Greek salad, also known as “Horiatiki,” is a vibrant mix of crisp cucumbers, juicy tomatoes, tangy feta cheese, and briny Kalamata olives. It’s all tossed in a simple dressing of extra virgin olive oil and red wine vinegar, then sprinkled with dried oregano.

Traditional Ingredients in Greek Salad

Here’s a quick rundown of what you’ll typically find in a classic Greek salad:

• Ripe tomatoes (often cherry tomatoes)
• Crisp cucumbers
• Red onion
• Feta cheese
• Kalamata olives
• Bell pepper (sometimes)
• Extra virgin olive oil
• Red wine vinegar
• Dried oregano

One thing you might notice? No lettuce! That’s right, a traditional Greek salad is all about showcasing these fresh, flavorful ingredients without any leafy greens getting in the way.

Nutritional Benefits of Greek Salad

I love how Greek salad isn’t just delicious – it’s good for you too! Here’s why:

• High Vitamins: Tomatoes and cucumbers are packed with vitamins A and C.
• Heart-healthy Fats: Thanks to olive oil and olives, you’re getting a dose of beneficial monounsaturated fats.
• Protein Boost: Feta cheese adds a nice protein punch.
• Low-carb: Without any grains or sugary dressings, it’s a great option for those watching their carb intake.

Now that we’ve covered the basics, let’s explore what to serve with Greek salad to create a memorable meal!

Main Dishes to Serve with Greek Salad

I’ve found that the right main dish can really elevate a Greek salad from a simple side to a star of the meal. Here are some of my favorite pairings:

Classic Greek Dishes

When I’m in the mood for a truly authentic experience, I love pairing my Greek salad with these traditional dishes:

• Moussaka: This hearty casserole of eggplant, ground meat, and creamy béchamel sauce is a perfect contrast to the fresh, crisp salad. Check out some great sides for moussaka here.

• Pastitsio: Think of it as Greek lasagna – layers of pasta, seasoned ground beef, and that irresistible béchamel. The richness pairs beautifully with the tangy feta in the salad.

• Spanakopita: These flaky spinach and feta pies are my go-to when I want something a bit lighter but still satisfying.

I love how these classic dishes bring warmth and depth to the meal, while the Greek salad adds a refreshing touch. It’s like a mini trip to Greece right in my kitchen!

Grilled and Roasted Meat Sides

There’s something about the smoky flavors of grilled meat that just sings with a Greek salad. Here are my top picks:

• Souvlaki: These skewers of marinated chicken, pork, or lamb are a match made in heaven with Greek salad.

• Gyros: Sliced meat (usually pork or chicken) wrapped in pita with tzatziki sauce – it’s like they were made for each other!

• Harissa Chicken: The spicy kick of harissa-marinated chicken is beautifully balanced by the cool, crisp salad.

• Greek Lamb Chops: The rich, slightly gamey flavor of lamb pairs perfectly with the bright, fresh flavors in the salad.

 Pro tip: When grilling meats to serve with Greek salad, try adding some lemon juice and oregano to your marinade. It’ll tie the flavors together beautifully and make your taste buds dance!

Seafood Pairings with Greek Salad

Living near the coast, I’ve developed a real fondness for pairing Greek salad with seafood. Here are some combinations that never fail to impress:

• Grilled Fish: Whether it’s sea bass, salmon, or sardines, a simply grilled fish is perfect with Greek salad.

• Pan-Seared Halibut: The delicate flavor of halibut gets a wonderful boost from the bold flavors in the salad.

• Tuna Steak: A seared tuna steak, still pink in the middle, is my personal favorite with Greek salad.

• Seasoned Shrimp: Garlicky, herb-seasoned shrimp make for a light yet satisfying meal alongside Greek salad.

When I’m serving Greek salad with seafood, I love to add an extra squeeze of lemon to both the fish and the salad. It really brings out the Mediterranean flavors and makes the whole meal feel cohesive.

Grains & Vegetable Sides For Greek Salad

Sometimes, I like to keep things vegetarian and pair my Greek salad with hearty grains or roasted veggies. Here are some options I love:

• Mediterranean Roasted Chickpeas: Crispy, spiced chickpeas add a nice crunch and protein boost.

• Quinoa Salad: A lemony quinoa salad complements the Greek salad beautifully and adds extra protein.

• Couscous: Fluffy couscous with some herbs and a drizzle of olive oil is a simple yet delicious pairing.

• Roasted Sweet Potato: The sweetness of roasted sweet potatoes balances the tangy feta in the salad.

• Stuffed Bell Peppers: Colorful bell peppers stuffed with rice and herbs make for a pretty and tasty side.

Pro tip: Try serving your Greek salad over a bed of warm, seasoned grains like farro or barley. It’s a game-changer! The warm grains slightly wilt the veggies and melt the feta, creating a whole new texture experience.

Pasta Dishes that Complement Greek Salad

Who says you can’t mix cuisines? I’ve found that certain pasta dishes pair surprisingly well with Greek salad:

• Lemon Herbed Orzo Pasta: This light, lemony pasta is like a bridge between Italian and Greek cuisines.

• Lemon Garlic Pasta: A simple spaghetti tossed with lemon, garlic, and olive oil complements the salad beautifully.

• Mediterranean Pasta Salad: Cold pasta salad with olives, sundried tomatoes, and herbs is like a cousin to Greek salad.

The key here is to keep the pasta dishes light and fresh, with flavors that echo those in the Greek salad. It’s a fusion that always gets compliments at my dinner parties!

Appetizers & Bread to Accompany Greek Salad

When I’m serving Greek salad as part of a larger spread, I love to include some traditional appetizers and bread. They really round out the meal and give everyone something to nibble on.

Traditional Greek & Middle Eastern Appetizers

These small bites are perfect for whetting the appetite before diving into your Greek salad:

• Tzatziki: This cool, creamy yogurt dip with cucumber and garlic is a refreshing start to any meal.

• Dolmades: Stuffed grape leaves are a classic Greek appetizer that pairs wonderfully with the salad.

• Falafel: These crispy chickpea fritters add a nice crunch and protein boost to your spread.

• Hummus: Smooth, garlicky hummus is always a crowd-pleaser and complements the flavors in Greek salad.

• Keftedes: These little Greek meatballs are irresistible and add a warm, savory element to the meal.

Pro tip: Try serving a mezze platter with a variety of these appetizers alongside your Greek salad. It’s a great way to turn a simple salad into a feast!

Bread Options for Greek Salad

No Greek meal is complete without some good bread to soak up all those delicious juices:

• Pita Bread: Soft, pillowy pita is perfect for scooping up salad or making impromptu gyros.

• Lavash Bread: This thin, soft flatbread is great for wrapping up bits of salad and meat.

• Greek Country Bread (Psomi): A hearty, crusty loaf that’s perfect for mopping up olive oil and tomato juices.

• Ciabatta: While not Greek, this Italian bread’s airy texture works well with Greek salad.

I always make sure to have some good quality bread on hand when serving Greek salad. There’s nothing better than using a piece of bread to soak up that delicious mix of olive oil, vinegar, and tomato juice at the bottom of the salad bowl!

Drinks to Pair with Greek Salad

The right drink can really enhance your enjoyment of a Greek salad. Here are some of my favorite pairings:

Wine Selections

When it comes to wine, I find that crisp, light options work best with the fresh flavors of Greek salad:

• White wines: Assyrtiko, a Greek white wine, is my top choice. Its crisp acidity complements the salad perfectly. Sauvignon Blanc is another great option.
• Red wines: If you prefer red, go for light-bodied options like a Pinot Noir or a chilled Beaujolais.

Non-alcoholic Beverages

For those times when you’re not in the mood for wine, these refreshing drinks are great alternatives:

• Sparkling Water with Lemon: The bubbles and citrus zing cleanse the palate between bites.
• Iced Herbal Tea: A mint or chamomile tea over ice is wonderfully refreshing with Greek salad.
• Fresh Lemonade: The tartness of lemonade pairs beautifully with the salty feta in the salad.

When I’m serving Greek salad on a hot summer day, I love to offer a variety of these cool, refreshing drinks. They really help to beat the heat and complement the salad’s flavors.

Greek Salad Variations to Spice Up Your Meal

While traditional Greek salad is delicious, sometimes it’s fun to mix things up a bit. Here are some variations I enjoy:

• Greek Pasta Salad: This fusion dish combines the best of both worlds – pasta and Greek salad ingredients. It’s a great option for potlucks or picnics.

• Mediterranean Quinoa Salad: For a protein-packed twist, try adding Greek salad ingredients to cooked quinoa. It’s a complete meal in itself!

• Grilled Greek Salad: Grilling the vegetables before assembling the salad adds a smoky depth that’s absolutely delicious.

• Greek Salad Skewers: These are perfect for parties – all the ingredients of a Greek salad on a stick! They’re fun to eat and look great on a platter.

I love experimenting with these variations, especially when I’m looking to turn my Greek salad into more of a main dish. They’re all great ways to enjoy those classic Greek flavors in a new format!

Tips for Serving Greek Salad at Different Occasions

Greek salad is so versatile, that it fits perfectly into various settings. Here’s how I like to serve it for different occasions:

For Summer Barbecues:

• Prepare a large batch and serve buffet-style
• Offer it as a refreshing side dish to grilled meats
• Consider using sturdy, disposable bowls for easy cleanup

At Dinner Parties:

• Present individual portions in small bowls or on salad plates
• Get creative with presentation – try hollowed-out tomatoes as edible bowls
• Pair with a selection of Mediterranean appetizers for a more formal spread

As A Quick Weeknight Meal:

• Add grilled chicken, canned tuna, or chickpeas for a complete, no-fuss dinner
• Prepare components in advance for easy assembly
• Serve with warm pita bread for a satisfying meal

When serving Greek salad, I always try to consider the setting and adjust accordingly. Whether it’s a casual backyard BBQ or an elegant dinner party, this versatile dish never fails to impress!

FAQs: Greek Salad Serving

What’s A Good Dessert to Follow Greek Salad?

Light, fruit-based desserts like baklava or Greek yogurt with honey complement Greek salad well. These sweet treats balance the tangy, savory flavors of the best Greek salad without being too heavy.

Can I Add Lettuce to My Greek Salad?

While not traditional, adding lettuce to Greek salad is acceptable. It adds volume and extra crunch. However, authentic Greek salad recipes typically don’t include lettuce, focusing instead on tomatoes, cucumbers, and feta.

What Are Some Good Vegetarian Options to Serve with Greek Salad?

Vegetarian options like homemade Greek spanakopita, falafel, or grilled halloumi cheese pair well with Greek salad. These protein-rich alternatives complement the salad’s fresh flavors and make for a satisfying meat-free meal.

How Do I Choose the Best Ingredients for My Greek Salad?

Select ripe tomatoes, crisp cucumbers, and high-quality feta cheese for the best Greek salad. Use authentic Kalamata olives and a good Greek salad dressing or make a homemade Greek vinaigrette with extra virgin olive oil.