Name: Mediterranean Salad Recipe
Prep time: PT-487483H51M22S
Cook time: PT-487483H51M22S
Total time: PT-487483H51M22S
Cuisine: Mediterranean
Ingredients: 1 large cucumber, diced; 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved; 1 red onion, thinly sliced; 1 bell pepper (red, yellow, or green), diced; ½ cup Kalamata olives, pitted and halved; ½ cup crumbled feta cheese; 1 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped; 1 tbsp fresh oregano or dried oregano; 1–2 cups romaine lettuce or mixed greens (optional, for extra crunch); For the dressing:; 3 tbsp extra virgin olive oil; 1 tsp Dijon mustard; 1 tsp honey (optional, for a touch of sweetness); 1 small garlic clove, minced; Salt and pepper, to taste

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A Mediterranean Salad is a vibrant, refreshing, and healthy dish packed with fresh vegetables, creamy feta cheese, and the perfect balance of tangy dressing. Full of flavor and texture, this salad is perfect as a side dish, a light lunch, or a hearty dinner when paired with grilled chicken or falafel. With Mediterranean staples like cucumbers, olives, and tomatoes, this salad brings the taste of the Mediterranean to your plate!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Light, healthy, and full of fresh vegetables.
Easy to make and customizable with your favorite toppings.
Packed with Mediterranean flavors like olives, feta, and olive oil.
Great for meal prep and stays fresh for a couple of days.
Perfect as a side dish or a main when paired with proteins like grilled chicken, lamb, or chickpeas.

Ingredients

For the salad:

1 large cucumber, diced
1 cherry tomatoes, halved
1 red onion, thinly sliced
1 bell pepper (red, yellow, or green), diced
½ cup Kalamata olives, pitted and halved
½ cup crumbled feta cheese
1 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
1 tbsp fresh oregano or dried oregano
1–2 cups romaine lettuce or mixed greens (optional, for extra crunch)

For the dressing:

3 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
1 tsp Dijon mustard
1 tsp honey (optional, for a touch of sweetness)
1 small garlic clove, minced
Salt and pepper, to taste

Directions

Prepare the salad:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the cucumber, cherry tomatoes, red onion, bell pepper, Kalamata olives, feta cheese, and fresh herbs (parsley and oregano). If you’re adding lettuce or greens, add them to the bowl as well.
Make the dressing:
In a small bowl or jar, whisk together the olive oil, vinegar, Dijon mustard, honey (if using), garlic, salt, and pepper until fully combined. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
Assemble the salad:
Drizzle the dressing over the salad and toss gently to combine. Make sure all the ingredients are well coated in the dressing.
Serve:
Serve immediately, or refrigerate for 15–30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together. Garnish with extra fresh parsley or crumbled feta if desired.

Servings and timing

This recipe serves 4 as a side dish and takes about 10–15 minutes to prep.

Variations

Add protein: Toss in some grilled chicken, shrimp, or chickpeas to make the salad a main dish.
Use different cheese: Swap feta for goat cheese, ricotta salata, or even Parmesan for a different flavor.
Add grains: Add cooked quinoa, couscous, or farro for a more filling, hearty salad.
Make it spicy: Add some sliced jalapeños or a dash of red pepper flakes for a bit of heat.
Make it vegan: Skip the feta and add avocado or use a dairy-free cheese alternative.

Storage/Reheating

This salad is best enjoyed fresh but can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. The salad will become slightly more flavorful as it sits, but the lettuce (if used) might wilt. You can store the dressing separately to keep the salad crisp longer.

FAQs

Can I make this salad ahead of time?

Yes, you can prep the salad ingredients and store them in the refrigerator for 1–2 days. Add the dressing just before serving to keep the salad fresh.

What’s the best dressing for this salad?

This simple olive oil and vinegar-based dressing enhances the Mediterranean flavors. You can also use tahini dressing, lemon vinaigrette, or even hummus for a creamy version.

Can I use other olives?

Yes, you can substitute Kalamata olives with green olives or black olives based on your preference.

Is this salad gluten-free?

Yes, this salad is naturally gluten-free, making it a great option for gluten-sensitive diets.

How can I make it spicier?

Add some diced hot peppers, such as banana peppers, or drizzle with chili oil for some extra spice.

Conclusion

Mediterranean Salad is a fresh, vibrant dish that’s perfect for any occasion. Packed with crunchy vegetables, creamy feta, and a tangy dressing, it’s a healthy and satisfying dish full of Mediterranean flavors. Whether served as a side or a light main, it’s a versatile recipe that’s sure to be a crowd-pleaser!