This Fresh Mediterranean Salad is a colorful mix of crunchy veggies, tasty olives, and creamy feta cheese. It’s light and refreshing, perfect for a sunny day or as a side dish!
I love how quick it is to whip up—you just chop, toss, and enjoy! Sometimes, I add a splash of lemon for an extra zing. Trust me, your taste buds will thank you! 😋
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Cherry Tomatoes: They’re sweet and juicy! If they’re out of season, you can use regular tomatoes, diced. Just make sure to remove any excess moisture to keep the salad from getting soggy.
Cucumber: Adds a refreshing crunch. If you prefer a different flavor, try a Persian cucumber or even diced avocado for creaminess.
Red Onion: This gives a nice bite to the salad. If you find it too strong, soak the slices in cold water for 10 minutes to mellow the flavor.
Kalamata Olives: Their briny flavor is classic in Mediterranean dishes. If you can’t find them, green olives or black olives work as substitutes, just keep an eye on the flavor difference.
Feta Cheese: Crumbly and tangy! If you’re looking for a lower-fat option, goat cheese is a good alternative. For a vegan choice, try crumbled tofu with lemon juice for flavor.
How Do I Make Sure My Salad Dressing is Just Right?
Getting the salad dressing perfect can really elevate your dish. Here are some helpful tips:
- Use Good Olive Oil: Quality matters! A good extra virgin olive oil enhances the flavor of the salad.
- Balance Flavors: Start with the base of olive oil and lemon juice, then taste as you add salt, pepper, and oregano. Adjust until it feels balanced.
- Whisk It Up: Mix the dressing well before pouring it over the salad to ensure everything is well coated.
Letting the salad sit for a bit after dressing really helps the flavors blend together nicely. Enjoy your delicious Mediterranean creation!
Fresh Mediterranean Salad with Feta & Olives
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Salad:
- 2 cups cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 large cucumber, diced
- 1/2 red onion, thinly sliced
- 1 green bell pepper, diced
- 1/2 cup Kalamata olives, pitted and halved
- 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
For the Dressing:
- 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 delicious salad takes about 15 minutes to prepare. You can serve it right away or let it chill for 15–30 minutes in the fridge to enhance the flavors. It’s quick, fresh, and oh-so-good!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Vegetables:
Start by washing and cutting all your vegetables. In a large mixing bowl, combine the halved cherry tomatoes, diced cucumber, thinly sliced red onion, diced green bell pepper, and the halved Kalamata olives. This colorful mix will give your salad a fresh look and a variety of textures!
2. Add Feta and Parsley:
Next, sprinkle the crumbled feta cheese and chopped fresh parsley over the veggie mixture. This adds creaminess and a burst of flavor to your salad.
3. Make the Dressing:
In a small bowl, whisk together the extra virgin olive oil, fresh lemon juice, dried oregano, salt, and pepper. Mixing it well will combine those delicious flavors perfectly!
4. Combine and Toss:
Pour the dressing over the salad and gently toss everything together, ensuring all the veggies are coated. Be careful not to mash the feta!
5. Taste and Adjust:
Give the salad a taste and add extra salt, pepper, or lemon juice if needed. Adjusting the flavors will make your salad just right for you!
6. Serve and Enjoy!
You can serve the salad immediately, or for better flavor, let it chill in the refrigerator for about 15–30 minutes. Enjoy your refreshing Mediterranean salad, and let every bite take you to sunny shores!
FAQ for Fresh Mediterranean Salad with Feta & Olives
Can I Use Different Types of Cheese?
Absolutely! While feta is traditional, you can substitute it with goat cheese for a tangy flavor or mozzarella for a milder taste. If you’re looking for a dairy-free option, try crumbled tofu with lemon juice added for flavor.
How Can I Add More Protein to This Salad?
If you’d like to make the salad more filling, consider adding grilled chicken, chickpeas, or even tuna. Simply toss them in with the vegetables to boost the protein content while keeping it delicious!
What’s the Best Way to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Keep in mind that the salad may get a bit watery due to the dressing, so you can drain excess liquid before serving again.
Can I Prepare This Salad in Advance?
Yes, you can prep the ingredients a day ahead! Keep the salad components separate from the dressing. Mix them just before serving to keep the veggies fresh and crunchy.
