This Fresh Mediterranean Salad is a colorful mix of juicy tomatoes, crisp cucumbers, zesty bell peppers, and tangy feta cheese. Perfect for hot summer days!
It’s so easy to whip up! Just chop, toss, and enjoy. I love adding a squeeze of lemon for extra flavor—it’s like a little sunshine in a bowl! ☀️
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Cucumbers: English cucumbers are great because they have fewer seeds and a delicate skin. If you can’t find them, regular cucumbers work too. Just peel them if the skin is too thick.
Tomatoes: Using a mix of red and yellow cherry tomatoes adds beautiful color and flavor. If you prefer larger tomatoes, dice a couple of flavorful Roma or vine-ripened tomatoes instead.
Red Onion: Red onions add a nice crunch and sweetness to the salad. If they’re too strong for you, try soaking chopped white onions in cold water for a few minutes to mellow their taste.
Olives: Kalamata olives give a rich and tangy flavor. If they’re not your favorite, you can substitute them with green olives or even leave them out for a milder taste.
How Do I Make Sure My Salad Is Fresh and Flavorful?
To keep the salad vibrant, make sure to wash and dry your vegetables before chopping them. This prevents any excess water from making the salad soggy. Also, letting the salad sit for about 10 minutes after mixing is key. This allows the flavors to blend beautifully.
- Prepare all vegetables by washing and drying them properly.
- Dice and chop into uniform sizes for even flavor and bite.
- Whisk the dressing just before pouring it over the salad to keep it fresh.
- Toss gently to combine; over-mixing can break down the veggies.
Enjoy making this salad perfect for your summer gatherings!
Fresh Mediterranean Salad
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 2 cups cucumbers, diced (preferably English cucumbers)
- 2 cups tomatoes, diced (a mix of red and yellow cherry or grape tomatoes for color)
- 1/2 cup red onion, finely chopped
- 1/2 cup fresh parsley, chopped
- 1/3 cup Kalamata olives, pitted
- 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice (freshly squeezed)
- 1 garlic clove, minced (optional)
- Salt and black pepper to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This salad takes about 15 minutes to prepare. It’s quick and easy, making it perfect for a last-minute side dish or a fresh lunch on a hot summer day!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Vegetables:
Start by washing and drying all your fresh vegetables thoroughly. This ensures they are clean and ready to munch on. Once they’re dry, dice the cucumbers and tomatoes into bite-sized pieces and place them into a large salad bowl.
2. Chop the Other Ingredients:
Next, finely chop the red onion and parsley. Add these to the bowl with the cucumbers and tomatoes. Don’t forget to add the Kalamata olives to bring in some rich, tangy flavor!
3. Make the Dressing:
In a separate small bowl, whisk together the extra virgin olive oil, freshly squeezed lemon juice, minced garlic (if you’re using it), salt, and black pepper. This dressing adds that bright Mediterranean flavor that makes the salad pop!
4. Combine Everything:
Pour the delicious dressing over your salad. Toss everything gently but thoroughly to combine all the ingredients. This will ensure that every bite is packed with flavor!
5. Let It Rest:
Allow the salad to sit for about 10 minutes at room temperature. This resting time lets the flavors meld beautifully and enhances the taste.
6. Serve and Enjoy:
Serve your fresh Mediterranean salad chilled or at room temperature. It makes a great light summer dish on its own or a tasty side with grilled meats or fish. Enjoy every refreshing bite!
Enjoy this fresh, vibrant salad full of Mediterranean flavors!
FAQ for Fresh Mediterranean Salad
Can I Use Different Types of Olives?
Absolutely! While Kalamata olives add a distinctive flavor, you can substitute them with green olives or Castelvetrano olives for a milder taste. Just make sure they’re pitted!
How Can I Make This Salad Vegan?
This salad is already vegan! Just skip the optional garlic, which some may not prefer, and enjoy the freshness of the veggies and dressing.
Can I Prepare the Salad in Advance?
Yes, but to keep it fresh, prepare the ingredients separately and combine them just before serving. If making in advance, store the dressing separately to prevent sogginess.
How Long Can I Keep Leftover Salad?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. The flavors will still be good, but the vegetables may soften, so enjoy them fresh for the best texture!
