Mediterranean recipes, Whole food recipes

Why make this recipe

This salad is fresh, healthy, and full of flavor. It’s a great choice for anyone looking for a nutritious meal that’s easy to prepare. With its Mediterranean ingredients, this salad brings a taste of the sun to your table. It’s perfect for lunch, dinner, or as a side dish at a gathering.

How to make the Mediterranean Salad

Ingredients:

• 2 cups of mixed greens
• 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
• 1 cucumber, diced
• 1/2 red onion, thinly sliced
• 1 cup Kalamata olives, pitted
• 1/2 cup feta cheese, crumbled
• 1/4 cup olive oil
• 2 tablespoons red wine vinegar
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh herbs (like parsley or basil) for garnish

Directions:

1. In a large bowl, add the mixed greens as the base.
2. Add the halved cherry tomatoes, diced cucumber, and sliced red onion to the bowl.
3. Toss in the Kalamata olives and crumbled feta cheese.
4. In a small bowl, mix the olive oil, red wine vinegar, salt, and pepper to make the dressing.
5. Drizzle the dressing over the salad and toss gently to combine.
6. Garnish with fresh herbs before serving.

How to serve Mediterranean Salad

Serve the Mediterranean salad in a large bowl or individual plates. It can be enjoyed on its own or alongside grilled chicken or fish. This salad also pairs well with pita bread or hummus for a complete meal.

How to store Mediterranean Salad

If you have leftovers, store the salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It’s best to keep the dressing separate until you are ready to eat to avoid sogginess. The salad can last for about 2 days when stored properly.

Tips to make Mediterranean Salad

• For added crunch, you can include bell peppers or radishes.
• If you prefer a vegan version, simply omit the feta cheese or replace it with a vegan cheese alternative.
• Make the dressing ahead of time and store it in the fridge for quick assembly when you’re ready to eat.

Variation

You can customize this salad by adding grilled chicken, shrimp, or chickpeas for protein. You can also change the cheese or add nuts for more texture.

FAQs

Can I use other greens instead of mixed greens?

Yes, you can use any leafy greens you like, such as spinach or arugula.

Is this salad gluten-free?

Yes, all the ingredients in this salad are gluten-free.

Can I make this salad ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the salad and store it without dressing for up to 2 days. Just add the dressing just before serving for the best taste.

Mediterranean Whole Food Recipes

Enjoy a collection of wholesome Mediterranean-inspired recipes focusing on fresh, natural ingredients. These recipes are designed to be both delicious and nutritious, perfect for a healthy lifestyle.

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Prep Time 20 minutes mins

Cook Time 30 minutes mins

Total Time 50 minutes mins

Servings 4 people

Calories 350 kcal

Equipment

• Large Bowl
• Whisk
• Small Bowl

Ingredients

  

Main Ingredients

• 6 cups Mixed Greens
• 1 pint Cherry Tomatoes halved
• 1 Cucumber diced
• 1 Bell Pepper sliced
• 0.5 cup Kalamata Olives pitted
• 4 oz Feta Cheese crumbled
• 2 Chicken Breast cooked and sliced (optional)

Lemon Herb Vinaigrette

• 0.25 cup Extra Virgin Olive Oil
• 2 tbsp Lemon Juice
• 1 tsp Dried Oregano
• 1 clove Garlic minced
• 0.5 tsp Salt
• 0.25 tsp Black Pepper

Instructions

 

Prepare the Salad

• In a large bowl, combine the mixed greens, halved cherry tomatoes, diced cucumber, sliced bell pepper, pitted Kalamata olives, and crumbled feta cheese.
• If using, add the cooked and sliced chicken breast to the bowl.

Make the Vinaigrette

• In a small bowl, whisk together the extra virgin olive oil, lemon juice, dried oregano, minced garlic, salt, and black pepper until well combined.

Assemble and Serve

• Pour the lemon herb vinaigrette over the salad ingredients.
• Toss gently to ensure all ingredients are evenly coated. Serve immediately.

Notes

For a vegetarian option, simply omit the chicken breast. Feel free to customize with other Mediterranean vegetables like artichoke hearts or chickpeas.