I like making this charred pepper salad with feta because it feels simple but tastes bold and fresh. I enjoy the smoky sweetness from the peppers paired with the salty creaminess of feta cheese. I also like that it works well as a side dish, light lunch, or part of a mezze-style spread, and I can serve it warm or cold depending on my mood.
Ingredients
3 large bell peppers (mix of red, yellow, and orange for color)
1 small red onion, thinly sliced
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 tablespoon red wine vinegar or lemon juice
1 teaspoon dried oregano
Salt and black pepper to taste
1/2 cup feta cheese, crumbled
2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
Optional: 1 clove garlic, minced
Optional: pinch of chili flakes
(Here’s a tip: Check out the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
Directions
I start by charring the bell peppers over an open flame, on a grill, or under a broiler until the skins are blackened and blistered. I turn them as needed so they char evenly.
I place the charred peppers in a bowl and cover them for about 10–15 minutes so the steam loosens the skins.
I peel off the skins, remove the seeds, and slice the peppers into strips.
I combine the peppers with sliced red onion in a mixing bowl.
I drizzle olive oil and red wine vinegar over the mixture, then add oregano, salt, pepper, and garlic if I’m using it.
I toss everything gently until well coated.
I transfer the salad to a serving dish and sprinkle crumbled feta cheese and fresh parsley on top.
I let it sit for a few minutes before serving so the flavors can blend.
Servings and timing
I usually get about 4 servings from this salad.
Preparation time: 15 minutes
Charring time: 10–15 minutes
Cooling/peeling time: 10 minutes
Total time: 35–40 minutes
Variations
I sometimes add roasted eggplant or zucchini to make it heartier.
I also like using goat cheese instead of feta for a different creamy flavor.
I occasionally add olives for extra saltiness and depth.
I sometimes serve it over arugula or spinach to turn it into a full meal.
I also like adding toasted pine nuts for crunch.
Storage/Reheating
I store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
I prefer eating it cold or at room temperature since reheating can make the peppers too soft.
If I make it ahead, I wait to add feta and herbs until just before serving so they stay fresh.
FAQs
Can I roast the peppers instead of charring them over a flame?
I often roast them in the oven at high heat, and it still gives a nice smoky flavor, though a grill or flame gives a deeper char.
Can I use jarred roasted peppers?
Yes, I sometimes use jarred peppers when I want a quicker version, but I find freshly charred peppers taste better.
What type of feta works best?
I prefer block feta in brine because I find it creamier and more flavorful than pre-crumbled versions.
Can I make this salad ahead of time?
Yes, I often prepare it a day ahead, but I add the feta and parsley just before serving.
Is this salad served hot or cold?
I like it both ways, but I usually serve it at room temperature so the flavors are more pronounced.
Conclusion
I like this charred pepper salad with feta because it is simple, colorful, and full of smoky Mediterranean flavor. I enjoy how easy it is to prepare with basic ingredients while still feeling fresh and satisfying, especially when I want something light but flavorful.
Print
Charred Pepper Salad with Feta
- Author: Olivia
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Salad
- Method: Charred / Roasted
- Cuisine: Mediterranean
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
This charred pepper salad with feta is a vibrant Mediterranean-style dish featuring smoky roasted bell peppers, tangy red onion, and creamy feta cheese, finished with a light herb dressing.
Ingredients
- 3 large bell peppers (red, yellow, and orange)
- 1 small red onion, thinly sliced
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon red wine vinegar or lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- 1/2 cup feta cheese, crumbled
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
- 1 clove garlic, minced (optional)
- Pinch of chili flakes (optional)
Instructions
- Char the bell peppers over an open flame, grill, or broiler until skins are blackened and blistered, turning to cook evenly.
- Place charred peppers in a covered bowl and let steam for 10–15 minutes to loosen skins.
- Peel off skins, remove seeds, and slice peppers into strips.
- Combine sliced peppers with red onion in a mixing bowl.
- Drizzle with olive oil and red wine vinegar (or lemon juice).
- Add oregano, salt, pepper, and garlic if using, then toss gently to combine.
- Transfer to a serving dish and top with crumbled feta and fresh parsley.
- Let sit for a few minutes before serving to allow flavors to meld.
Notes
- Roasting peppers in the oven is a good alternative if a grill or flame is not available.
- Jarred roasted peppers can be used for a quicker version.
- Block feta in brine provides the best creamy texture and flavor.
- Add feta and herbs just before serving for best freshness.
- Optional additions include olives, roasted vegetables, or toasted pine nuts.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 180
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 320mg
- Fat: 13g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 12g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 5g
- Cholesterol: 15mg
