Are you in the mood for a refreshing and flavorful dish that transports you to the sunny shores of the Mediterranean? This Mediterranean Chopped Salad is a delightful blend of crisp veggies, tangy olives, creamy feta cheese, and zesty dressing that makes for a perfect light meal or a side dish for any occasion. Packed full of vibrant colors and a mix of textures, this salad is not only a feast for the eyes but also for your taste buds. Let’s dive right in and create this easy and delicious recipe right in your own kitchen!
**Mediterranean Chopped Salad**
**Ingredients:**
– 2 cups cherry tomatoes, halved
– 1 English cucumber, diced
– 1 red bell pepper, chopped
– 1 small red onion, thinly sliced
– 1/2 cup Kalamata olives, pitted and sliced
– 4 oz feta cheese, crumbled
– 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
– 1/4 cup fresh mint, chopped
**For the Dressing:**
– 1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil
– 2 tablespoons red wine vinegar
– 1 clove garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon dried oregano
– Salt and pepper to taste
**Instructions:**
1. In a large salad bowl, combine the cherry tomatoes, cucumber, red bell pepper, red onion, Kalamata olives, feta cheese, parsley, and mint. Toss gently to mix all the ingredients evenly.
2. In a separate small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, red wine vinegar, minced garlic, dried oregano, salt, and pepper until well combined.
3. Pour the dressing over the salad mixture in the large bowl. Toss the salad gently to ensure all the vegetables are coated with the dressing.
4. Allow the salad to sit for at least 15 minutes before serving to let the flavors meld together. This salad can also be refrigerated for a few hours to enhance the taste.
5. Serve the Mediterranean Chopped Salad chilled or at room temperature as a refreshing and nutritious side dish with grilled chicken, fish, or lamb. It’s also great on its own as a light lunch or a healthy snack.
6. Enjoy the vibrant flavors of the Mediterranean with each crunchy bite of this fresh and colorful salad. The combination of juicy tomatoes, crisp cucumbers, briny olives, and tangy feta cheese will transport you to a seaside cafe in Greece or Italy, making every meal feel like a culinary vacation.
7. This Mediterranean Chopped Salad is not only delicious but also a nutritious choice for your well-being. Packed with vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants, this salad is a great way to boost your immune system and support your overall health.
8. So, whether you’re looking for a quick and easy side dish for a summer barbecue or a light meal to enjoy on a lazy weekend afternoon, this Mediterranean Chopped Salad is sure to be a crowd-pleaser. Bon appétit!
