Greek Salad Sushi

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Greek Salad Sushi is a fun and fresh twist on traditional sushi, combining the vibrant flavors of a classic Greek salad with the delicate texture of sushi rolls. The rice is seasoned with a tangy lemon-oregano dressing, and instead of the usual sushi fillings like fish or crab, the ingredients are all inspired by the Mediterranean. You’ll find crisp cucumber, juicy tomato, salty feta cheese, and Kalamata olives wrapped up in nori and rice, with a drizzle of olive oil or balsamic glaze to tie everything together. It’s refreshing, light, and packed with bold, fresh flavors.

The first time I made Greek Salad Sushi, I was so impressed by how well the ingredients came together. The sushi rice, seasoned with lemon and oregano, perfectly complements the crisp vegetables and creamy feta cheese. What I love most about this dish is how it brings the best of both worlds— sushi and Greek salad—into one bite-sized treat. It’s the perfect light appetizer or snack, and you can even serve it at a summer gathering for a unique twist on sushi. Feel free to add a little hummus or tzatziki on the side for dipping!

Perfect for:

  • Appetizers
  • Light meals
  • Mediterranean lovers
  • Sushi fans
  • Summer parties

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Here are 10 reasons why this Greek Salad Sushi will become your new favorite dish:

  • Refreshing Mediterranean Flavor: A perfect blend of crisp vegetables, creamy feta, and tangy olives in every bite.
  • Unique Fusion Dish: Combines the flavors of a Greek salad with the elegance of sushi.
  • Healthy and Light: Packed with fresh veggies and heart-healthy olive oil, it’s a nutritious choice for any meal.
  • Quick to Prepare: Ready in under 30 minutes, making it an ideal dish for busy days.
  • Perfect for Summer: Its light, fresh ingredients are perfect for warm-weather dining.
  • Easy to Customize: You can add your favorite Mediterranean ingredients like red onion, peppers, or fresh herbs.
  • Gluten-Free: Made without soy sauce, this sushi is naturally gluten-free, making it a great option for dietary restrictions.
  • Fun to Eat: The sushi roll format makes this dish interactive and fun to serve at parties or gatherings.
  • Vibrant and Colorful: The bright colors of tomatoes, cucumber, and olives make this dish visually appealing.
  • No Cooking Required: Perfect for those who want to prepare a fresh, no-cook meal.

Preparation and Cooking Time

  • Total Time: 30 minutes
  • Preparation Time: 15 minutes
  • Cooking Time: 0 minutes
  • Servings: 4 servings
  • Calories per serving: Approximately 250-300 calories
  • Key Nutrients: Protein: 6g, Carbs: 30g, Fat: 14g

Ingredients

For the Sushi Rolls:

  • 1 cup sushi rice
  • 1 ½ cups water
  • 2 tablespoons rice vinegar
  • 1 tablespoon sugar
  • ½ teaspoon salt
  • 4 sheets nori (seaweed)
  • 1 small cucumber, julienned
  • 1 cup cherry tomatoes, quartered
  • ½ cup feta cheese, crumbled
  • ¼ cup Kalamata olives, pitted and chopped
  • Fresh oregano leaves for garnish

For the Dressing:

  • 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
  • 1 tablespoon lemon juice
  • 1 teaspoon red wine vinegar
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Ingredient Highlights

  • Feta Cheese: Adds a creamy, tangy element that complements the vegetables beautifully.
  • Kalamata Olives: A staple of Greek cuisine, they bring a salty, briny flavor to the sushi.
  • Sushi Rice: The perfect sticky base for creating compact, flavorful rolls.
  • Fresh Vegetables: Crisp cucumber and juicy tomatoes create a light, refreshing bite.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Prepare the Sushi Rice:

  1. Rinse Rice: Wash the sushi rice under cold water until the water runs clear.
  2. Cook Rice: Combine the rice and water in a saucepan and bring to a boil. Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15 minutes, then remove from heat and let it rest for 10 minutes.
  3. Season Rice: Stir the rice vinegar, sugar, and salt into the rice while it’s still warm. Let the rice cool to room temperature.

Prepare the Filling:

  1. Chop Vegetables: Julienne the cucumber and quarter the cherry tomatoes. Chop the olives and crumble the feta cheese.
  2. Make the Dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, red wine vinegar, salt, and pepper.

Assemble the Sushi:

  1. Prepare Nori: Place a sheet of nori on a sushi mat or flat surface, shiny side down.
  2. Spread Rice: Gently spread a thin layer of sushi rice over the nori, leaving about 1 inch at the top free of rice.
  3. Add Fillings: Arrange cucumber, tomatoes, feta, and olives along the bottom edge of the rice.
  4. Roll Sushi: Carefully roll the sushi from the bottom, pressing lightly as you go. Seal the edge with a little water.
  5. Slice Rolls: Use a sharp knife to slice the roll into 6-8 pieces.

Serve:

  1. Garnish and Serve: Drizzle the dressing over the sushi rolls and garnish with fresh oregano leaves. Serve chilled or at room temperature.

How to Serve

Here are 10 serving suggestions for Greek Salad Sushi:

  • As a Light Appetizer: Perfect as an appetizer at a Mediterranean-themed dinner or gathering.
  • On a Picnic: The rolls are easy to pack and transport, making them ideal for a picnic or outdoor event.
  • With a Side Salad: Pair with a fresh Greek salad for a complete Mediterranean meal.
  • As a Sushi Alternative: Serve as a fun, non-traditional sushi option at sushi nights.
  • With Extra Feta Dip: Serve alongside a creamy feta dip or tzatziki for added flavor.
  • For Summer Parties: These colorful rolls are a hit at summer BBQs and parties.
  • As a Snack: A healthy, filling snack option to curb midday hunger.
  • With Fresh Bread: Serve with crusty bread to round out the meal.
  • As a Vegetarian Dish: A great option for vegetarians or anyone looking to enjoy a plant-based meal.
  • For Kids: A fun, kid-friendly twist on sushi that is sure to delight.

Additional Tips

  • Keep Rice Moist: If the sushi rice starts to dry out while working, cover it with a damp cloth.
  • Customize Fillings: Add other Mediterranean ingredients like red onion, bell peppers, or even avocado.
  • Use Sharp Knife: For clean cuts, use a sharp knife and dip it in water between slices to avoid sticking.
  • Serve Immediately: For the best texture, serve the sushi as soon as it’s assembled, though it can be stored in the fridge for a few hours.

Recipe Variations

  • Avocado Greek Salad Sushi: Add slices of avocado for extra creaminess.
  • Crispy Chickpeas: Top the rolls with crispy chickpeas for added crunch.
  • Spicy Greek Salad Sushi: Add a dash of chili flakes or a drizzle of spicy olive oil for heat.
  • Pita Wrap Version: Use pita bread instead of nori for a twist on this sushi roll.
  • Grilled Chicken Add-On: Add grilled chicken for a protein-packed variation.
  • Vegan Greek Salad Sushi: Omit the feta and use tofu or more veggies for a vegan version.
  • Zesty Dressing: Add some Dijon mustard or a touch of honey to the dressing for a different flavor.
  • Roasted Red Pepper: Include roasted red peppers for a smoky flavor.
  • Tomato Basil Version: Replace the tomatoes with sun-dried tomatoes and fresh basil for a different flavor profile.

Special Equipment

  • Sushi Mat: For easy rolling of the sushi.
  • Sharp Knife: For cutting the sushi rolls into perfect pieces.
  • Rice Cooker: Optional, but helps make perfectly cooked sushi rice.
  • Bowl for Dressing: To whisk the dressing together before drizzling.
  • Serving Plate: For presenting the sushi rolls attractively.

FAQ Section

  1. Can I use regular rice instead of sushi rice?
    It’s best to use sushi rice for the authentic sticky texture, but any short-grain rice will work in a pinch.
  2. How long will these sushi rolls stay fresh?
    The rolls are best eaten within a few hours of making them, but they can be stored in the fridge for up to 1 day.
  3. Can I use another type of cheese?
    Yes, goat cheese or ricotta salata are good alternatives to feta.
  4. Can I prepare these sushi rolls in advance?
    You can prepare the rice and fillings ahead of time, but it’s best to roll them just before serving.
  5. What’s a good dipping sauce for these?
    A lemon tahini sauce or a balsamic reduction would pair nicely with the Mediterranean flavors.
  6. Can I make these rolls without nori?
    Yes, you can use rice paper wraps or even skip the seaweed entirely.
  7. How do I keep the rice from sticking to my hands?
    Wet your hands with water to prevent the rice from sticking while working.
  8. Can I freeze these sushi rolls?
    Freezing isn’t recommended as it may affect the texture, especially of the vegetables.
  9. What’s the best way to slice these rolls?
    Use a sharp knife and wet it between cuts for clean, smooth slices.
  10. Can I make this a low-carb dish?
    Yes, you can skip the rice and use thinly sliced cucumber or zucchini as a substitute.

Conclusion

Greek Salad Sushi is a fun and refreshing twist on traditional sushi. With its combination of crisp vegetables, creamy feta, and briny olives, this dish is a delightful fusion of Greek salad and sushi. Whether you’re hosting a party or just craving something light and fresh, these sushi rolls are sure to impress with their vibrant flavors and healthy ingredients. Enjoy this unique dish that brings the best of Mediterranean cuisine to your sushi plate!