Mediterranean Salad with Feta Cheese and Olives Recipe

A vibrant and healthy Mediterranean salad featuring feta cheese and olives, perfect for any meal.

Mediterranean cuisine is known for its flavorful and healthy dishes, often incorporating fresh vegetables, olive oil, and an array of spices and herbs. One of the most beloved dishes from this region is the Mediterranean Salad with Feta Cheese and Olives. This salad is not only visually inviting with its vibrant colors but also packed with nutrients, ensuring you get a healthy dose of vitamins and minerals with every bite.

Mediterranean salads are versatile and can be tailored to suit your tastes or dietary requirements. The combination of crunchy vegetables, tangy feta cheese, and briny olives creates a delightful mix of textures and flavors. This recipe captures the essence of Mediterranean cooking and is perfect for a light lunch, a side dish for a larger meal, or even a refreshing dinner option during warmer months. Let's dive into the recipe and see how you can create this delicious salad at home.

Ingredients

• 1 head of romaine lettuce, chopped
• 1 cucumber, diced
• 1 red bell pepper, diced
• 1 yellow bell pepper, diced
• 1 red onion, thinly sliced
• 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
• 1/2 cup Kalamata olives, pitted and halved
• 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese
• 1/4 cup extra-virgin olive oil
• 2 tablespoons red wine vinegar
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 clove garlic, minced

Nutrition

Calories: ~220 calories

Instructions

1. Prepare the Vegetables: Begin by washing and chopping the romaine lettuce into bite-sized pieces. Dice the cucumber and bell peppers, and thinly slice the red onion. Halve the cherry tomatoes and pit and halve the Kalamata olives.
2. Make the Dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together the extra-virgin olive oil, red wine vinegar, dried oregano, salt, black pepper, and minced garlic until well combined.
3. Assemble the Salad: In a large salad bowl, combine the chopped lettuce, diced cucumber, bell peppers, sliced red onion, cherry tomatoes, and halved olives. Pour the dressing over the salad and toss gently to coat all the ingredients evenly.
4. Add the Feta Cheese: Sprinkle the crumbled feta cheese over the top of the salad. Toss lightly to distribute the cheese throughout the salad.
5. Serve: Transfer the salad to a serving platter or individual plates. Serve immediately for the best flavor and texture.

Enjoy your Mediterranean Salad with Feta Cheese and Olives as a refreshing and healthful meal option. This salad can be paired with grilled chicken, fish, or even falafel for a more substantial meal. Additionally, you can customize the ingredients to include your favorite vegetables or even add some grains like quinoa for added texture and nutrition.

Remember, the key to a great Mediterranean salad is using fresh and high-quality ingredients. Don't be afraid to experiment with different herbs and spices to make this salad your own. Bon appétit!