Mini Greek Salad Cups: 7 Fresh Bites to Delight You

Name: Mini Greek Salad Cups
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 7 min
Total time: 17 min
Cuisine: Mediterranean
Ingredients: 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved; 1 cup cucumber, diced; 1/2 cup red onion, finely chopped; 1/2 cup feta cheese, crumbled; 1/4 cup Kalamata olives, pitted and sliced; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 1 tablespoon red wine vinegar; 1 teaspoon dried oregano; Salt and pepper to taste; Mini phyllo cups

When it comes to appetizers that capture the essence of sunny Mediterranean flavors, nothing quite matches mini Greek salad cups. Bursting with bold ingredients and refreshing tastes, these delightful bites encapsulate everything we love about a traditional Greek salad plus the charm of a crispy phyllo cup. Perfect for gatherings, picnics, or just indulging a little, these mini Greek salad cups are a treat that everyone will appreciate.

Why Make This Recipe

They are a healthy yet indulgent option for any occasion.
Quick and simple to prepare, making them a great addition to your cooking repertoire. These mini Greek salad cups bring an exciting flair to everyday dining and special occasions alike. With vibrant ingredients and a crunch that’s hard to resist, this recipe is not just food; it’s an experience.

How to Make Mini Greek Salad Cups

You might be surprised how easy it is to prepare these scrumptious mini Greek salad cups. Just follow this step-by-step guide, and you’ll be on your way to creating an irresistible appetizer.

Step 1: Prepare the Oven

Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This will ensure your phyllo cups bake to a perfect crispness, making a delightful shell for your salad mixture.

Step 2: Mix the Vegetables and Cheese

In a large bowl, combine 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved, 1 cup cucumber, diced, 1/2 cup red onion, finely chopped, 1/2 cup feta cheese, crumbled, and 1/4 cup Kalamata olives, pitted and sliced. This vibrant mix not only looks colorful but also sings with fresh flavors that complement each other beautifully.

Step 3: Whisk the Dressing

In a small bowl, whisk together 2 tablespoons olive oil, 1 tablespoon red wine vinegar, 1 teaspoon dried oregano, salt, and pepper to taste. This dressing is a simple yet flavorful addition that will elevate the salad to new heights.

Step 4: Combine the Dressing and Salad

Pour the dressing over your salad mixture and gently toss to coat all the ingredients evenly. The olive oil and vinegar will add a rich, tangy flavor that binds everything deliciously.

Step 5: Prepare the Phyllo Cups

Place the mini phyllo cups on a baking sheet. Make sure they’re evenly spaced to allow heat to circulate around them, ensuring an even crisp.

Step 6: Fill the Cups

Carefully fill each cup with the salad mixture. Make sure they are generously filled so every bite will be packed with flavor.

Step 7: Bake to Perfection

Bake in the preheated oven for 5-7 minutes, until the cups are crispy and lightly golden. You really want that crunch to shine through when you take your first bite.

Step 8: Serve and Enjoy

These mini Greek salad cups can be served warm right out of the oven or allowed to cool to room temperature. They bring a sense of festive spirit wherever they go!

Storage Tips for Mini Greek Salad Cups

Keeping your mini Greek salad cups fresh is essential if you want to enjoy them over a couple of days. Here are some handy tips to follow:

Refrigerate: Store leftover cups in an airtight container in the fridge for 3-4 days at 40°F.
Freezing: If you need to store them longer, freeze the unfilled phyllo cups for up to 2 months. Just remember not to fill them before freezing; they should be baked and filled fresh!
Reheat for Crunch: When you’re ready to enjoy your leftovers, pop them back in a warm oven at 350°F for a few minutes to regain that crunchy texture.

Serving Suggestions for Mini Greek Salad Cups

These mini Greek salad cups are incredibly versatile and pair effortlessly with various dishes. Here are some ideas for serving or complementing them:

Serve alongside hummus or tzatziki for dipping, enhancing the Mediterranean flair.
Pair with grilled meats, such as lemon-herb chicken or lamb skewers, for a complete meal.
Use as part of a larger antipasto platter featuring cured meats, olives, and other Mediterranean delights.
Add a selection of cocktails or mocktails that feature citrus and mint to match the salad’s freshness.

Tips to Make Mini Greek Salad Cups

To make your masterpiece even better, here are some quick tips to keep in mind:

Phyllo Handling: If your phyllo cups are frozen, let them thaw in the fridge overnight for best results.
Fresh Veggies: Always use the freshest ingredients available; they make all the difference in your salad’s flavor.
Seasoning Balance: Feel free to adjust the seasoning in your dressing based on your taste preferences; a pinch more salt or even a dash of spicy pepper can elevate the dish beautifully.

Variations or Substitutions

These mini Greek salad cups are fantastic as is, but if you want to mix things up, here are a couple of ideas:

If you prefer a more protein-rich option, try adding grilled chicken or shrimp to the salad. It enhances the flavor and turns your cups into a more substantial appetizer. Alternatively, for a vegan version, swap the feta cheese with cubed avocado or marinated tofu, capturing that creamy texture without dairy.

FAQs

Q: Can I make this ahead?

A: Absolutely! You can prepare the salad mixture a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator. Just fill the phyllo cups and bake just before serving to enjoy that crispy texture.

Q: How do I make it spicier?

A: If you’re aiming for a kick, consider adding diced jalapeños or a dash of crushed red pepper flakes to the salad for an exciting punch of heat.

Q: Can I use different cheeses?

A: Yes! While feta complements the Greek salad theme, feel free to experiment with other cheeses like goat cheese for a tangy twist or a mild mozzarella for a creamier profile.

Nutrition Information

These mini Greek salad cups not only taste great but also boast a nutritious profile perfect for health-conscious diners:

Calories per cup: approximately 78
Total fat: 5g
Saturated fat: 2g
Cholesterol: 10mg
Sodium: 150mg
Total carbohydrates: 8g
Fiber: 1g
Sugars: 1g
Protein: 3g

Fill your dinner table with color and flavor by serving these mini Greek salad cups. Whether it’s a casual Friday night, a fancy gathering, or simply an afternoon snack, these delightful bites are sure to bring joy to every occasion. Enjoy creating and sharing them with family and friends, or savor them alone as a healthy treat; no matter how you enjoy them, they’re bound to be a hit. Dive into this wonderful world of taste and creativity, and let these mini Greek salad cups be your next culinary masterpiece!