This colorful Mediterranean salad is packed with fresh veggies, creamy feta, and salty olives. It’s a bright and tasty dish that brings the sunshine to your table!
Whenever I make this salad, I feel like I’m on a beach vacation! Pair it with some grilled chicken or just enjoy it on its own. Simple, refreshing, and oh-so-good! 🌞
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Cherry Tomatoes: Sweet and juicy, they add brightness to the salad. If you don’t have cherry tomatoes, regular tomatoes diced into bite-sized pieces work too.
Cucumber: Freshness comes from the cucumber. You can swap it with zucchini for a different crunch or even use a pickled cucumber for a tangy twist.
Feta Cheese: Feta brings a creamy texture and salty flavor. If you’re dairy-free, try using crumbled tofu or a vegan feta alternative. For a stronger taste, goat cheese can be a delicious option.
Kalamata Olives: Their rich flavor is key to this salad. If unavailable, you can use green olives or even capers for a briny kick.
How Do I Get the Best Flavor from My Olive Oil Dressing?
Making a simple dressing can truly elevate your salad. Start by using high-quality extra virgin olive oil—this is where a lot of your flavor comes from!
- In a small bowl, whisk the olive oil and lemon juice together until combined.
- Add the dried oregano, salt, and pepper, then taste and adjust to your liking. A little honey can work too if you want some sweetness.
Drizzle it generously over your salad and toss gently. Allow it to rest for a few minutes before serving to let those flavors come together!
Fresh Mediterranean Salad with Feta and Olives
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Salad:
- 2 cups cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 cucumber, diced
- 1 red bell pepper, diced
- 1/2 red onion, thinly sliced
- 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 lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This refreshing salad takes about 10 minutes to prepare and is best served right away or after being chilled for 15-20 minutes to enhance the flavors.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Vegetables:
Start by washing your cherry tomatoes and slicing them in half. Next, dice the cucumber and red bell pepper, and slice the red onion thinly. Make sure all your veggies are fresh and colorful!
2. Combine the Salad Ingredients:
In a large salad bowl, add the halved cherry tomatoes, diced cucumber, diced red bell pepper, and thinly sliced red onion. Toss them together to mix well.
3. Add Feta and Olives:
Now, sprinkle the Kalamata olives and crumbled feta cheese over the salad. The olives will bring a salty flavor, while the feta adds creaminess.
4. Make the Dressing:
In a small bowl, whisk together the extra virgin olive oil, lemon juice, dried oregano, along with salt and pepper. This will be the delicious dressing that ties all the flavors together!
5. Dress the Salad:
Pour the dressing over the salad mixture in the bowl. Toss everything gently to ensure the veggies and cheese are evenly coated in the dressing.
6. Taste and Adjust Seasoning:
Take a moment to taste your salad! If you think it needs a little more salt or pepper, feel free to adjust the seasoning to your liking.
7. Serve and Enjoy:
Your Fresh Mediterranean Salad is ready to enjoy! You can serve it immediately, or if you have a little time, chill it in the refrigerator for 15-20 minutes. This will make the colors pop and the flavors meld!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I Substitute the Feta Cheese?
Absolutely! If you’re looking for a dairy-free option, you can use crumbled tofu or a vegan feta. Alternatively, goat cheese can also work well and adds a nice tangy flavor.
What Other Vegetables Can I Add?
You can customize this salad! Try adding ingredients like diced bell peppers in various colors, artichoke hearts, or even baby spinach for extra greens. Just keep the flavors fresh!
How to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. The vegetables may soften a bit, but the flavors will still be delightful. It’s best to keep the dressing separate if possible until you’re ready to serve.
Can I Make This Salad Ahead of Time?
Yes! You can chop the veggies and prepare the dressing up to a day in advance. Just combine them when you’re ready to serve, or allow the salad to chill in the fridge for extra flavor!
