This Fresh Mediterranean Salad is colorful and full of tasty veggies like cucumbers, tomatoes, and olives. Toss in some feta cheese for that delightful salty kick!
I love how easy the dressing is—just mix olive oil, lemon juice, and a bit of salt. It’s so simple, even I can’t mess it up! Perfect for a quick lunch or side dish.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Cherry Tomatoes: These provide sweetness and color. You can swap them for diced regular tomatoes if that’s what you have on hand, but the smaller ones tend to be sweeter.
Cucumber: A refreshing crunch! If you prefer, you can use Persian cucumbers as they have fewer seeds, or zucchini for a tasty twist.
Red Onion: It adds a sharp bite. If you’re avoiding raw onion, try using green onions or shallots, or even omit it for a milder flavor.
Kalamata Olives: Their briny taste is key to the salad. If you don’t have Kalamata, try green olives or even black olives as a replacement.
Feta Cheese: This crumbled cheese delivers creaminess. If you’re dairy-free, consider using a vegan feta or simply leave it out.
Fresh Parsley: This adds freshness. You can also use basil or cilantro for a different flavor profile!
How Do You Make an Easy Dressing?
Preparing the dressing is a breeze and can make your salad shine. Here’s a simple breakdown:
- In a small bowl, combine the extra virgin olive oil and fresh lemon juice. The olive oil adds richness, while the lemon juice brings brightness.
- Add the dried oregano, salt, and black pepper. Oregano has a nice earthiness that pairs well with Mediterranean flavors.
- Whisk everything together until the dressing is well blended. Taste it—adjust the lemon or salt according to your preference.
Drizzled over the salad, this dressing enhances the flavors beautifully. If you have extra, it keeps well in the fridge for a few days!
Fresh Mediterranean Salad with Easy Dressing
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 2 cups cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 large cucumber, diced
- 1/2 red onion, thinly sliced
- 1/2 cup Kalamata olives, pitted and halved
- 1/2 cup feta cheese, crumbled
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
- 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 recipe takes about 10-15 minutes to prepare. It’s a quick, healthy option, and if you let it chill for about 15-20 minutes, the flavors will blend beautifully. Perfect for a refreshing side or a light meal!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Vegetables:
Start by washing the cherry tomatoes and cutting them in half. Then, dice the cucumber into bite-sized pieces, and thinly slice the red onion. Feel free to adjust the amounts based on your preference!
2. Mix It All Together:
In a large salad bowl, combine the halved cherry tomatoes, diced cucumber, sliced red onion, and Kalamata olives. Add the freshly chopped parsley to brighten things up!
3. Add the Feta Cheese:
Sprinkle the crumbled feta cheese over the top of the mixed salad ingredients. This adds a lovely creamy texture and extra flavor!
4. Make the Dressing:
In a small bowl, whisk together the extra virgin olive oil, fresh lemon juice, dried oregano, salt, and black pepper. Make sure everything is well mixed to combine the flavors.
5. Combine Everything:
Drizzle the dressing over the salad mixture and gently toss everything together using salad tongs or a large spoon. Make sure the dressing coats all the ingredients evenly!
6. Taste and Serve:
Before you serve, taste the salad and make any adjustments—maybe a little more salt, pepper, or lemon juice! You can serve it immediately or let it chill in the fridge for about 15-20 minutes for the flavors to meld.
Enjoy your fresh Mediterranean salad—perfect for a sunny day or as a side for any meal!
FAQs about Fresh Mediterranean Salad with Easy Dressing
Can I Use Different Vegetables in This Salad?
Absolutely! Feel free to customize the salad with any veggies you love, such as bell peppers, avocados, or carrots. This salad is very versatile, so you can mix and match based on your preferences.
How Long Does This Salad Last in the Fridge?
This salad can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. However, for the best texture, enjoy it within the first day, as some ingredients may become soggy over time.
Can I Make the Dressing Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can prepare the dressing ahead! Store it in a sealed jar in the fridge for up to a week. Just give it a good shake before using, as the ingredients may separate over time.
What Can I Serve with This Salad?
This salad pairs wonderfully with grilled chicken, fish, or as a light lunch on its own. It also makes a great side dish for Mediterranean-inspired meals like gyros or grilled kebabs!
