Directions
<ol class="no-list-style"><li class="MethodStepper"><h4 class="step-title">Step 1</h4>Prepare your vegetables by deseeding and dicing the cucumber into 2cm chunks. Halving the cucumber lengthwise and using a spoon to scrape out the seeds reduces excess moisture, keeping your salad crisp rather than watery.</li><li class="MethodStepper"><h4 class="step-title">Step 2</h4>Slice the cherry tomatoes in half and place in a large salad bowl along with the cucumber. Thinly slice the red onion into half-moons - soaking the sliced onion in cold water for 5 minutes can reduce its sharpness if preferred.</li><li class="MethodStepper"><h4 class="step-title">Step 3</h4>Add the kalamata olives to the bowl. For the most authentic flavor, use whole olives with pits removed rather than pre-sliced varieties, as they retain more of their essential oils and flavor.</li><li class="MethodStepper"><h4 class="step-title">Step 4</h4>Cut the feta cheese into 1-2cm cubes. Traditional Greek feta made from sheep's milk offers the most authentic tang and creaminess, but any high-quality feta will work beautifully. Add the feta to the bowl, being gentle to avoid crumbling it too much.</li><li class="MethodStepper"><h4 class="step-title">Step 5</h4>In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, fresh lemon juice, dried oregano, chopped parsley, sea salt, and black pepper. A quality extra virgin olive oil makes a significant difference in the final flavor profile of your dressing.</li><li class="MethodStepper"><h4 class="step-title">Step 6</h4>Pour the dressing over the salad ingredients and toss gently to combine. The oil-based dressing coats the vegetables without wilting them, while infusing the salad with Mediterranean flavors.</li><li class="MethodStepper"><h4 class="step-title">Step 7</h4>For best flavor, allow the salad to rest for 10-15 minutes before serving, giving the ingredients time to marinate slightly in the dressing. The salad can be served immediately, but tastes even better after the flavors have had a chance to meld together.</li><li class="MethodStepper"><h4 class="step-title">Step 8</h4>Serve in individual bowls or on a large platter, finishing with an extra sprinkle of oregano and a drizzle of olive oil for presentation. This keto-friendly salad pairs beautifully with grilled meats or can stand alone as a refreshing light meal. Enjoy!</li></ol>