Greek Salad from Gold Star Chili features crisp romaine lettuce, juicy tomatoes, cucumbers, red onions, Kalamata olives, and tangy feta cheese, tossed in a zesty oregano vinaigrette, delivering a fresh and vibrant Mediterranean flavor with a colorful, inviting presentation.
Equipments
- Salad bowl
- Chef’s knife
- Cutting board
- Salad tongs or serving utensils
- Small mixing bowl (for vinaigrette)
- Whisk (for vinaigrette)
- Measuring spoons
- Salad spinner (optional, for drying lettuce)
Ingredients
- Romaine lettuce
- Tomatoes
- Cucumbers
- Red onions
- Kalamata olives
- Feta cheese
- Dried oregano
- Red wine vinegar
- Olive oil
- Salt
- Black pepper
Ensure your romaine lettuce is thoroughly washed and dried, preferably using a salad spinner to maintain crispness. Select ripe tomatoes and firm cucumbers for the best texture and flavor contrast. Kalamata olives add authentic Mediterranean taste, so choose high-quality, pitted olives for convenience. Use tangy feta cheese that crumbles easily to evenly distribute its salty richness throughout the salad. You can recreate the vibrant flavors of Greek Salad from Gold Star Chili with these fresh, well-selected ingredients.
Instructions
- Wash and dry the romaine lettuce using a salad spinner.
- Chop the romaine lettuce and place it in the salad bowl.
- Dice the tomatoes and add them to the bowl.
- Slice the cucumbers and red onions; add to the bowl.
- Add Kalamata olives to the bowl.
- Crumble feta cheese over the salad.
- In a small mixing bowl, combine dried oregano, red wine vinegar, olive oil, salt, and black pepper.
- Whisk the vinaigrette until well combined.
- Pour the vinaigrette over the salad.
- Toss the salad gently with tongs or serving utensils.
- Serve immediately.
Substitution
Greek Salad from Gold Star Chili copycat menu features fresh romaine lettuce, ripe tomatoes, crisp cucumbers, zesty red onions, briny Kalamata olives, and creamy feta cheese, all mixed in a tangy oregano vinaigrette. If Kalamata olives are unavailable, black olives can be used as a mild alternative without sacrificing texture. Your feta cheese can be swapped with goat cheese for a creamier, tangier profile that still complements the salad's flavors. When preparing the vinaigrette, adjust the ratio of olive oil to vinegar to suit your taste preference, ensuring the dressing is well-balanced and not overpowering. Always dry the lettuce thoroughly using a salad spinner to prevent the vinaigrette from becoming watery and to maintain crispness.
Tips
Ensure your romaine lettuce is thoroughly washed and dried; excess water can dilute the vinaigrette and make the salad soggy. When chopping ingredients like cucumbers and onions, aim for uniform sizes to ensure even flavor distribution and an appealing presentation. Prepare the vinaigrette just before tossing the salad to maintain its fresh, vibrant taste. Remember to toss the salad gently so your feta cheese remains in recognizable crumbles rather than breaking down completely.
Nutritions
Greek Salad from Gold Star Chili offers a nutrient-rich combination of crisp romaine lettuce, juicy tomatoes, and cucumbers, providing essential vitamins such as A, C, and K along with dietary fiber. Kalamata olives and feta cheese contribute healthy fats and proteins, supporting heart health and muscle function. The zesty oregano vinaigrette, made with olive oil and red wine vinegar, adds antioxidants and anti-inflammatory benefits. Your Mediterranean meal not only delivers vibrant flavors but also supports balanced nutrition.
Storage
Store your Greek Salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator to maintain freshness, preferably without the vinaigrette to prevent sogginess. Keep the dressing separate and add it just before serving to preserve the crispness of the romaine lettuce, cucumbers, and tomatoes. Use within 1-2 days for optimal flavor and texture.
Variation or Alternatives
For a variation, swap romaine lettuce with mixed greens or baby spinach to add a different texture and nutritional profile. Substitute red wine vinegar in the oregano vinaigrette with lemon juice for a brighter, citrusy flavor. You can also replace Kalamata olives with green olives or capers to alter the briny notes. If you prefer a vegan option, omit feta cheese or use a plant-based cheese alternative to maintain the creamy element.
Allergies
Greek Salad contains feta cheese, which is a dairy product and may cause allergic reactions in individuals with lactose intolerance or milk allergies. Kalamata olives, although less common, can occasionally trigger nut or olive allergies. If you have known food allergies, carefully review each ingredient to avoid adverse reactions while enjoying your meal.
Why this recipe?
Gold Star Chili's Greek Salad appeals to customers due to its fresh ingredients like crisp romaine lettuce, juicy tomatoes, kalamata olives, feta cheese, and tangy Greek dressing that deliver authentic Mediterranean flavors. The balanced blend of textures and vibrant taste profiles make it a refreshing and healthy choice, perfect for those seeking a flavorful yet light meal. Your attempt to recreate the copycat recipe allows you to enjoy this signature dish at home, customizing ingredients to personal preference and ensuring a fresh, satisfying experience every time. Making this salad yourself also saves money while capturing the essence of Gold Star Chili's popular menu item.