This Fresh Mediterranean Salad is a colorful mix of veggies like tomatoes, cucumbers, and bell peppers, combined with tasty olives and feta cheese. Perfect for a light and healthy meal!
It’s super easy to throw together and so refreshing! I love enjoying it on hot days or as a side to grilled chicken. Plus, it looks amazing on the table—talk about eye candy! 🌟
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Cherry Tomatoes: These add a burst of sweetness. If you can’t find them, you can use regular tomatoes—just dice them into small pieces.
Cucumber: I like English cucumbers for their crispness. If they’re not available, any cucumber will work, or even zucchinis for a twist!
Red Bell Pepper: It brings a sweet crunch. You can also use yellow or orange bell peppers for a different flavor and a pop of color.
Kalamata Olives: For that briny kick! Green olives can be a good substitute, but they will slightly change the flavor profile.
Feta Cheese: The creamy texture is perfect in this salad. If you’re dairy-free, try a vegan feta or omit it altogether.
Fresh Parsley: Adds freshness. If you’re not a fan, you could replace it with fresh mint or basil.
How Do I Make the Salad Dressing Just Right?
The dressing is key to tying all the flavors together! It’s simple but requires some attention for balance.
- Start with the olive oil and lemon juice. This combination gives a fresh taste.
- Add dried oregano for an herbaceous touch. You can also use fresh oregano if you have it.
- Taste as you go; adding salt and pepper gradually ensures you get it just right.
- Whisk until well combined—it should have a light consistency.
Remember, you can always make adjustments to suit your taste. Enjoy!
Fresh Mediterranean Salad
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Fresh Produce:
- 2 cups cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 large cucumber, diced
- 1 red bell pepper, diced
- 1/2 red onion, thinly sliced
- 1/2 cup Kalamata olives, pitted and halved
Cheese and Herbs:
- 1/2 cup feta cheese, crumbled
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
Dressing Ingredients:
- 2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil
- 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This fresh Mediterranean salad is quick to prepare! You’ll need about 10 minutes for chopping and mixing. If you let it chill for about 30 minutes, the flavors will meld together beautifully, making it even tastier.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Combine the Fresh Ingredients:
In a large salad bowl, toss together the halved cherry tomatoes, diced cucumber, diced red bell pepper, thinly sliced red onion, and halved Kalamata olives. This colorful mix will be the base of your salad!
2. Add Cheese and Herbs:
Sprinkle the crumbled feta cheese and chopped parsley over the vegetable mixture. Feta adds a creamy texture, and the parsley brings a fresh touch!
3. Make the Dressing:
In a small bowl, whisk together the extra-virgin olive oil, fresh lemon juice, dried oregano, and a pinch of salt and pepper. This will be your delicious dressing that enhances all the flavors.
4. Dress the Salad:
Pour the dressing over the salad and gently toss everything together until the ingredients are well coated. Be careful not to crush the feta as you mix.
5. Taste and Adjust:
Take a little taste! If you think it needs more salt, pepper, or lemon juice, feel free to add it. Adjusting seasonings is a great way to make the salad just right for your taste buds.
6. Serve and Enjoy:
Enjoy your fresh Mediterranean salad right away, or let it chill in the fridge for about 30 minutes to allow the flavors to marry beautifully. This salad can be a light meal on its own or a vibrant side to grilled dishes. Happy eating!
FAQ for Fresh Mediterranean Salad
Can I Use Different Vegetables?
Absolutely! Feel free to mix in or swap out vegetables based on your preferences. Other great additions include avocado, artichoke hearts, or shredded carrots for extra crunch and flavor.
How Long Can I Store Leftovers?
You can store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. However, for the best flavor and texture, it’s recommended to enjoy the salad fresh on the same day it’s made.
Can I Prepare This Salad in Advance?
Yes, you can prep the ingredients a day ahead! Chop your veggies and store them separately, and mix the dressing in advance too. Just combine everything and add the dressing right before serving for the freshest taste.
Is There a Vegan Option for This Salad?
Yes! You can simply omit the feta cheese or substitute it with vegan feta or another plant-based cheese. This will keep the salad both delicious and vegan-friendly!