Mediterranean Salad
A vibrant and nourishing Mediterranean salad that is quick to prepare, bursting with flavors, and enjoyable for both adults and kids alike.
Ingredients
Fresh Vegetables
- 2 cups cherry tomatoes, halved (Use a mix of colors for a more vibrant dish.)
- 1 piece cucumber, diced (Choose an English cucumber for fewer seeds and a crisper texture.)
- 1 piece bell pepper (any color), diced (Bell peppers add sweetness and crunch.)
- 1/2 piece red onion, thinly sliced (Soak the sliced onion in cold water for a few minutes to mellow the flavor.)
Salad Add-Ins
- 1 cup Kalamata olives, pitted and halved (They bring a delicious briny flavor.)
- 1 cup feta cheese, crumbled (Use a block of feta for a creamier texture; crumble it yourself for freshness.)
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped (Use flat-leaf for the best taste.)
Dressing Ingredients
- 1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil (A good quality oil makes a significant difference in flavor.)
- 2 tablespoons red wine vinegar (This adds brightness and balances the richness of the olive oil.)
- to taste salt and pepper (Season gradually; you can always add more.)
Instructions
Preparation
- Start by washing all your fresh produce.
- Dice the tomatoes, cucumber, bell pepper, and onion, aiming for uniform sizes for even mixing.
Mixing
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the cherry tomatoes, cucumber, bell pepper, red onion, and olives.
- Gently fold in the feta and parsley.
Dressing
- In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, red wine vinegar, salt, and pepper.
- Pour the dressing over the salad and toss gently.
- Taste and adjust the seasoning if needed.
Serving
- Transfer to a serving platter or bowl, and enjoy!
Notes
This salad is best enjoyed fresh but can hold up for a few days in the fridge. Store it in an airtight container to keep it crisp. Dress right before serving to avoid sogginess.