Mediterranean Delight Salad: A Burst of Freshness π₯π
The Mediterranean Delight Salad is a vibrant and refreshing dish that brings together the best of Mediterranean flavors. With fresh vegetables, tangy feta cheese, Kalamata olives, and a zesty lemon dressing, this salad is a wholesome and satisfying option for any meal. It’s perfect as a light lunch, a side dish for dinner, or even a picnic addition. The medley of colors, textures, and flavors makes this salad a true celebration of fresh, healthy ingredients.
Ingredients:
- 2 cups mixed salad greens (e.g., arugula, spinach, or baby kale)
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 cucumber, diced
- 1/4 red onion, thinly sliced
- 1/4 cup Kalamata olives, pitted and sliced
- 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese
- 1/4 cup roasted red peppers, chopped
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
- 2 tablespoons pine nuts or sunflower seeds (optional, for added crunch)
For the dressing:
- 3 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
- 1 tablespoon red wine vinegar
- Juice of 1 lemon
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
Instructions:
- Prepare the vegetables:
Begin by washing and prepping the salad ingredients. Halve the cherry tomatoes, dice the cucumber, thinly slice the red onion, and chop the roasted red peppers. - Assemble the salad:
In a large salad bowl, combine the mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, red onion, Kalamata olives, roasted red peppers, and crumbled feta cheese. - Make the dressing:
In a small bowl or jar, whisk together the olive oil, red wine vinegar, lemon juice, dried oregano, garlic powder, salt, and pepper until well combined. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed. - Toss the salad:
Drizzle the dressing over the salad ingredients and toss gently to ensure the vegetables are evenly coated. Be careful not to crush the feta or olives. - Add the finishing touches:
Sprinkle the pine nuts or sunflower seeds on top for an added crunch. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley for a burst of color and freshness. - Serve and enjoy:
Serve the Mediterranean Delight Salad immediately as a side dish or a light main course. It pairs beautifully with grilled meats, seafood, or even as part of a mezze platter.
Why You’ll Love This Salad:
The Mediterranean Delight Salad is packed with nutrients, antioxidants, and healthy fats, thanks to the fresh vegetables, olives, and feta. The ingredients provide a perfect balance of crisp textures and rich flavors, while the lemon-oregano dressing ties everything together with a tangy zest. Plus, itβs incredibly easy to make, requiring minimal prep time for such a flavorful, colorful dish.
Variations and Tips:
- Add protein: To make this salad even more filling, consider adding grilled chicken, chickpeas, or a hard-boiled egg for extra protein.
- Swap out feta: If you’re not a fan of feta cheese, try goat cheese, ricotta, or even a dairy-free cheese alternative for a different flavor.
- Make it spicier: For a little kick, add a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes to the dressing or garnish with fresh chili slices.
This Mediterranean Delight Salad is a fantastic way to enjoy a burst of freshness with every bite. Itβs perfect for a healthy, vibrant meal that transports you to the sunny Mediterranean coast, all while being quick and simple to prepare!