A traditional Greek salad, called Horiatiki Salata, is a flavorful combination of olives, tomatoes, onions, cucumbers, feta cheese and sometimes capers. But my favorite version of a Greek salad in the Raleigh area is always combined with greens and potato salad. It’s a bit different but I’ve become so accustomed to this version, I think I’d really miss the creamy potato salad if we left it out.

When we put this recipe in our Desperation Dinners column, lots of readers had comments. Here’s a rundown:

“This is how Greek salad has been served in the Tarpon Springs, Fla., wonderful Greek restaurants, particularly Louis Pappas for many, many years. The first time I had it there, 30 years ago, I loved it, and am always disappointed when I order Greek salad at other places. No one seems to know about the potato salad. I serve it that way myself, and I learned from the Pappas restaurants. It certainly is not a new idea, but a good one.”
--Judith Crane

And this from Clella Fox:
“Thank you for the yummy Greek salad recipe! You said in your article that the most frequent version of a Greek salad in your area is the combined greens and potato salad. Right away I knew you weren't from the Columbus, Ohio, area! We were introduced to that style of Greek salad years ago in Tarpon Springs, FL, where some of my family (not Greek) live. We love the combination! But every Greek restaurant that we go to in Columbus thinks we're crazy when we ask if they serve their salad that way! They don't know what they are missing. I'm looking forward to fixing a Greek salad the way we really like it because you shared your recipe."

“The salad was delicious. I just happened to have a container of Reser's Country Style Red Potato Salad purchased at Sam's, (which by the way is delicious - just like homemade), so I was set to go. The only difference is that I added 1/2 tsp. salt to the Greek Dressing as I felt the need for it.”--Fran Kuzma, Erie, PA

The article brought up a family dispute for the Jolicoeurs of Sanford, N.C.:

“Shame on you. Potato salad in a Greek Salad!!! As you stated potato salad is popular in Florida. It was started by George Pappas at Pappas's Restaurant at the sponge docks at Tarpon Springs. What a terrible way to ruin a true Greek salad. I make sure whenever I am back there to ask them to leave off the potato salad as this has no bearing on a Greek salad. I know now who to blame if you ruin all the Greek salads across the country. LOL”
--Gary J Jolicoeur of Sanford, NC (formerly of Tampa, Fla.)

Her turn:

“The potato salad in a Greek salad is a southern tradition which I greatly enjoy. I am a native Floridian and did not know the salad was served any differently until I met my Yankee husband. This is certainly a contention with him. I can compromise though since he introduced me to spanakopita and baklava (even chocolate covered), so I can concede this one point.”--Patti Jolicoeur of Sanford, NC, (Native Floridian)

And here’s an alternate dressing recipe idea from Jim Angleton of Bay Harbor Islands, FL., who calls himself a faithful reader:

“I am Greek and after treading your dressing and salad ... Just had to respond. Here's a much better and authentic dressing:

1 clove garlic finely minced
1/4 cup good red wine vinegar
1 teaspoon Greek dried oregano
2 tablespoons finely chopped fresh dill
8 grinds fresh black pepper
Squeeze of fresh lemon juice

Quickly whisk in extra-virgin Kalamata olive oil.

As for the salad, lose the potato salad but add:
Diced roasted bell peppers, peprocinni peppers, red onion, green onions, romaine and iceberg lettuce, fresh dill roughly chopped, seeded cukes. Olives and feta.

For the pita, brush lighlty with olive oil, dust with oregano and
garlic then pan fry, serve hot! Enjoy~~

If you really want to raise the bar marinate rib lamb chops and
place with salad... Mmmm”

All the best,
Jim

Thanks to everyone who contributed their ideas! Keep ‘em coming!