Name: Greek Kale Salad with Lemon Olive Oil Dressing Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Total time: 15 min
Cuisine: Greek
Ingredients: 1 large bunch (about 10 ounces or 3-4 cups) kale leaves, finely chopped; 1 pint cherry or grape tomatoes, halved; 1 cucumber, seeded and diced; 1/2 red onion, thinly sliced; 1/4 cup olives, sliced; 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese; 1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil; 2 Tbsp lemon juice; 1 garlic clove, minced; 1 teaspoon dried oregano; Salt and pepper, to taste

Jump to Recipe· 4.2 from 83 reviews

If you’re looking to brighten up your salad game with something vibrant, nutritious, and bursting with Mediterranean flavors, this Greek Kale Salad with Lemon Olive Oil Dressing Recipe is your new best friend. It’s a crunchy, fresh combination of hearty kale, juicy tomatoes, crisp cucumber, sharp red onion, salty olives, and creamy feta, all brought together by a zesty, homemade lemon olive oil dressing that you’ll want to drizzle on everything. Whether you’re after a light lunch or a colorful side dish, this salad hits just the right notes every single time.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The image shows several small white bowls arranged on a white marbled surface, each holding a different ingredient. In the center, a clear glass bowl contains bright green curly kale leaves. Surrounding it are white bowls filled with chopped green cucumbers, halved red cherry tomatoes, chopped purple onions, whole black olives, and crumbled white cheese. Smaller white bowls hold minced garlic, dried herbs, salt, and black pepper. Two small glasses with golden and light yellow liquids are also present. A striped cloth napkin rests on the side. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Every ingredient in this Greek Kale Salad with Lemon Olive Oil Dressing Recipe plays a key role in creating its distinct taste and texture. The freshness of the vegetables, the boldness of the feta, and the lively zing of the dressing combine to make each bite exciting and wholesome.

Kale (1 large bunch, about 3-4 cups finely chopped): This nutrient powerhouse forms the hearty green base that holds everything together with a satisfyingly chewy texture.
Cherry or grape tomatoes (1 pint, halved): Sweet and juicy bursts that add vibrant red color and balance the earthiness of the kale.
Cucumber (1, seeded and diced): Adds a cool, refreshing crunch that keeps each bite light and crisp.
Red onion (1/2, thinly sliced): Brings a slightly sharp bite and beautiful purple hues.
Olives (1/4 cup, sliced): A salty, briny punch that’s classic in Greek salads and brings a savory depth.
Feta cheese (1/2 cup, crumbled): Creamy and tangy, it adds richness and a satisfying bite.
Extra virgin olive oil (1/4 cup): The star of the dressing that lends luxurious, fruity smoothness.
Lemon juice (2 Tbsp): Adds a fresh, zesty brightness that wakes up every flavor in the dish.
Garlic (1 clove, minced): Provides a subtle aromatic kick to the dressing.
Dried oregano (1 teaspoon): This herb is the quintessential Greek seasoning that ties the flavors together perfectly.
Salt and pepper (to taste): Essential seasonings that enhance and balance the salad’s components.

How to Make Greek Kale Salad with Lemon Olive Oil Dressing Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Dressing

Start by whisking together the lemon juice, extra virgin olive oil, minced garlic, dried oregano, salt, and pepper in a small to medium bowl. This simple mixture is where all the magic begins, creating a tangy, fragrant dressing that will elevate every crisp leaf and juicy veggie in your salad.

Step 2: Chop and Combine the Salad Ingredients

Finely chop the kale so it’s tender enough to eat without overwhelming the palate. Halve the cherry tomatoes, dice the seeded cucumber, thinly slice the red onion, and slice the olives. Toss all of these together in a large bowl to ensure every ingredient is well distributed, creating a rainbow of flavors and textures that looks as good as it tastes.

Step 3: Dress and Mix

Pour the freshly whisked lemon olive oil dressing over your chopped salad ingredients, then give everything a gentle but thorough toss. This way, every bite is packed with flavor — the kale softens slightly under the dressing, and the juicy tomatoes and salty feta meld beautifully with the lemony, herbaceous dressing.

Step 4: Finish with Extra Feta

Sprinkle a generous amount of crumbled feta cheese on top after tossing. This finishing touch adds creaminess and a lovely salty finish that makes the salad feel indulgent but still incredibly fresh and healthy.

How to Serve Greek Kale Salad with Lemon Olive Oil Dressing Recipe

A white bowl contains six separate sections of fresh ingredients arranged neatly: dark green curly kale on the left, bright red halved cherry tomatoes on the top left, dark brown sliced olives on the top right, crumbly white cheese on the right, diced red onions below the cheese, and light green cucumber chunks below the kale. The bowl sits on a white marbled surface with a striped white and gray cloth nearby. Two small white bowls with gold rims hold salt and ground pepper beside the main bowl. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

For a little extra flair, consider topping your Greek Kale Salad with toasted pine nuts or sliced almonds for crunch, or sprinkle with fresh chopped parsley or dill to amplify the herbaceous notes. Lemon zest grated on top can add an additional burst of citrus aroma that feels both bright and fresh.

Side Dishes

This salad pairs wonderfully with a variety of mains. Serve it alongside grilled chicken or fish for a protein-packed meal, or enjoy it next to warm pita bread and hummus for a classic Mediterranean spread. It also complements dishes like roasted lamb or stuffed grape leaves perfectly.

Creative Ways to Present

Looking to impress guests? Serve the salad in a hollowed-out watermelon or pineapple for a stunning centerpiece. Mason jars layered with the ingredients and dressing make for convenient, portable lunches that stay fresh. For a fun twist, wrap the salad filling in large grape leaves or use romaine leaves as cups for bite-sized Greek kale salad appetizers.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store any leftover Greek Kale Salad with Lemon Olive Oil Dressing Recipe in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 48 hours. The flavors actually deepen over time, but the kale will soften slightly, so it’s best enjoyed fresh or within a day or two for optimal texture.

Freezing

This salad is best enjoyed fresh and does not freeze well because the fresh vegetables and feta cheese lose their texture upon thawing. If you want to prep ahead, keep the dressing separate and add it just before serving instead.

Reheating

Since this is a fresh, cold salad, reheating isn’t recommended. If you want a warm element, consider serving the salad alongside a warm grain or roasted vegetable, letting the salad provide a cool, tangy contrast.

FAQs

Can I use other greens instead of kale?

Absolutely! While kale provides a hearty texture and rich nutrients, you can substitute it with spinach, arugula, or even mixed greens for a softer, more delicate salad.

How can I make the salad vegan?

Simply omit the feta cheese or use a plant-based feta alternative. This keeps the salad delicious while accommodating a vegan diet without losing the essential flavors.

Is it okay to prepare the salad in advance?

Yes, you can chop the ingredients and prepare the dressing in advance. However, toss the salad with the dressing just before serving to maintain freshness and avoid sogginess.

What’s the best way to remove kale’s bitterness?

Massaging the kale with a little salt or lemon juice before adding the rest of the salad ingredients helps soften the leaves and tones down any bitterness, making it more tender and enjoyable.

Can I adjust the lemon olive oil dressing to my taste?

Definitely! Feel free to add more lemon juice if you prefer extra brightness or a bit more olive oil for richness. You can also tweak the garlic and oregano amounts to suit your flavor preferences perfectly.

Final Thoughts

I can’t recommend this Greek Kale Salad with Lemon Olive Oil Dressing Recipe enough for anyone craving a fresh, healthy, and incredibly tasty meal or side dish. It’s easy to make, vibrant on the table, and a fabulous way to enjoy nutrient-packed kale with classic Greek flavors. Give it a try and watch it become one of your go-to salads, too.

Greek Kale Salad with Lemon Olive Oil Dressing Recipe

Ingredients You’ll Need