Mediterranean Salad

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Mediterranean Salad is a delicious and nutritious option that comes together in just minutes. The combination of crisp vegetables, briny olives, creamy feta, and a tangy dressing creates a perfect balance of flavors. It’s fresh, filling, and versatile, making it suitable for any occasion, from casual weeknight dinners to potlucks or picnics. Plus, it’s naturally gluten-free and can be easily made vegan by omitting the feta cheese. It’s a great way to enjoy the flavors of the Mediterranean without any fuss!

Ingredients

• 2 cups cucumber, diced

• 1 ½ cups cherry tomatoes, halved

• 1 red bell pepper, diced

• ½ red onion, thinly sliced

• 1 cup Kalamata olives, pitted and halved

• 1 cup feta cheese, crumbled (optional, for a vegan version, omit or use vegan feta)

• ¼ cup fresh parsley, chopped

• 2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil

• 1 tablespoon red wine vinegar

• 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice

• 1 teaspoon dried oregano

• Salt and pepper, to taste

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

1. Prepare the Vegetables: In a large bowl, combine the diced cucumber, halved cherry tomatoes, diced red bell pepper, and sliced red onion.

2. Add Olives and Feta: Add the Kalamata olives and crumbled feta cheese (if using) to the bowl with the vegetables. Toss gently to combine.

3. Make the Dressing: In a small bowl or jar, whisk together the olive oil, red wine vinegar, lemon juice, dried oregano, salt, and pepper until well combined.

4. Toss and Serve: Pour the dressing over the salad and toss until the vegetables are evenly coated. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley.

5. Chill: For best results, refrigerate the salad for about 30 minutes before serving to allow the flavors to meld. However, this step is optional.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 4-6

• Prep Time: 10 minutes

• Chill Time: 30 minutes (optional)

• Total Time: 10 minutes (without chilling)

Variations

• Add Protein: To make this salad a complete meal, add grilled chicken, shrimp, or chickpeas for extra protein.

• Make it Vegan: Simply omit the feta cheese or use a vegan feta substitute. You can also add extra olives or avocado for creaminess.

• Add More Veggies: Feel free to add more vegetables like zucchini, radishes, or even artichoke hearts to make the salad even more colorful and flavorful.

• Use Other Cheese: If you’re not a fan of feta, you can swap it for goat cheese, ricotta salata, or even mozzarella balls.

• Spicy Version: Add a bit of heat by including some chopped chili peppers or a pinch of red pepper flakes in the dressing.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2-3 days. The salad is best enjoyed fresh, but it can be kept for a short time in the fridge.

• Reheating: This salad is meant to be served cold, so there’s no need to reheat it. If storing for later, make sure to keep the dressing separate from the salad until ready to serve to prevent sogginess.

FAQs

Can I use different olives?

Yes! You can use green olives, or even a mix of black and green olives, depending on your preference. Kalamata olives are commonly used in Mediterranean salads, but feel free to adjust based on what you like.

Can I make this salad ahead of time?

Yes, this salad can be made ahead of time. Just keep the dressing separate until you’re ready to serve, and toss the salad just before serving to keep the vegetables crisp.

Can I add quinoa or couscous to this salad?

Absolutely! You can easily add cooked quinoa or couscous to this salad for extra texture and substance. Just make sure to allow the grains to cool before mixing them with the other ingredients.

Can I make the dressing ahead of time?

Yes, the dressing can be made ahead and stored in a sealed jar in the refrigerator for up to a week. Shake or whisk it well before using.

Can I use a different type of vinegar?

Yes, you can use white wine vinegar or balsamic vinegar as a substitute for red wine vinegar. Each vinegar will provide a slightly different flavor, so feel free to experiment based on your preferences.

How can I make this salad spicier?

To add heat, include some red pepper flakes in the dressing, or chop up some fresh chili peppers like jalapeños or banana peppers and add them to the salad.

Can I serve this salad as a main dish?

Yes, you can add grilled chicken, lamb, falafel, or chickpeas to make this a complete main dish. It’s a great base for a Mediterranean-style protein.

Conclusion

Mediterranean Salad is the perfect light and refreshing dish, full of vibrant vegetables, salty olives, and creamy feta. With its quick preparation time and healthy ingredients, it’s ideal for meal prep, picnics, or as a side dish to complement your favorite Mediterranean-inspired meals. Whether you keep it simple or add your own twists, this salad is a delightful way to enjoy the bold flavors of the Mediterranean