Greek Salad with Crispy Tofu Croutons

A modern, plant-forward reimagining of the classic 'Horiatiki' (village salad). While the original recipe focuses on fresh vegetables and salty feta, here, pan-fried tofu adds extra texture and protein, making the dish satisfying without being heavy. It's the essence of the Mediterranean diet in a bowl: colorful, rich in olive oil, crunchy, and infinitely healthy.
🕒 Prep Time 15 mins
🍳 Cook Time 10 mins
Total Time 25 mins
🍽️ Servings 4 servings
🔥 Calories 380 kcal
🌍 Cuisine Greek

Ingredients

Equipment Needed

  • Skillet (for tofu)
  • Paper towels
  • Large salad bowl

Allergen Information

⚠️ Milk
⚠️ Soy

Instructions

1

Wrap the tofu in paper towels and place a heavy object on it for 10 minutes to press out excess water.

Tip: Removing water is crucial for the tofu to crisp up rather than steam.
2

Cut the tofu into cubes. Heat 1 tbsp olive oil in a skillet and fry the cubes until golden brown and crispy on all sides. Lightly salt.

Tip: The Maillard reaction (browning) gives the tofu that pleasant, nutty flavor lacking in its raw state.
3

Cut the tomatoes into wedges, slice the cucumber into half-moons, and thinly slice the onion.

Tip: Use room temperature tomatoes; they have much more intense flavor than cold ones from the fridge.
4

Place the vegetables and olives in a bowl. Add the cooled tofu cubes.

Tip: Let the tofu cool down, or it will 'cook' the vegetables.
5

Top with feta cheese (in a slab or large chunks) and sprinkle generously with oregano.

Tip: Oregano's fat-soluble flavor compounds bloom when they meet the oil.
6

Drizzle with the remaining olive oil and lemon juice. Toss gently just before serving.

Tip: Be careful with salt, as both feta and olives are salty!

Recipe FAQ

My tofu is tasteless. What did I do wrong?
Tofu is like a sponge. If you don't press the water out and season it heavily before/during frying, it remains bland.
Does a traditional Greek salad need lettuce?
No! The authentic Greek salad is just cucumber, tomato, onion, pepper, and cheese. But feel free to add greens if you like.

Ingredients

  • 3 pcs Ripe Tomatoes
  • 1 pc English Cucumber
  • 1 medium head Red Onion
  • 5 oz Feta Cheese (or vegan alternative)
  • 7 oz Firm Tofu (approx. 1/2 block)
  • 1/4 cup Kalamata Olives
  • 4 tbsp Extra Virgin Olive Oil
  • 1 tbsp Lemon Juice
  • 1 tsp Dried Oregano
  • 1 pinch Salt
  • 1 pinch Black Pepper