Garden Delight Salad

πŸ•’ Prep: 15 min
πŸ”₯ Cook:
🍽 Serves: 4
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Welcome to a burst of freshness with our Garden Delight Salad! It's that perfect blend of crisp, vibrant veggies and savory toppings that'll make any meal feel like a celebration of the season's bounty.

Ingredients for Garden Delight Salad

Mixed greens like romaine, spinach, and arugula offer a delicate balance of flavors and textures, from peppery to sweet. Cherry tomatoes, when halved, burst with juiciness and a touch of acidity that brightens the salad. Cucumber adds a refreshing crunch, while red onion provides a sharp, zesty bite. The black olives contribute a savory depth, and feta cheese brings a creamy, tangy richness. Finally, walnuts add a satisfying crunch and earthy flavor.

Tips & Tricks

  • Toast the walnuts for an extra layer of flavor β€” just a few minutes in a dry pan will do.
  • For a smoother onion taste, soak the slices in cold water for a few minutes before adding them to the salad.
  • Always taste your dressing before adding it to the salad. Adjust the salt and vinegar to your liking.

Serving Suggestions

This salad pairs beautifully with grilled chicken or fish for a heartier meal. For a more Mediterranean vibe, serve it alongside some warm pita bread and hummus. It's also a fantastic side for a summer barbecue or a light lunch on its own.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make this salad ahead of time?
Yes, you can prep the ingredients in advance and store them separately. Combine and dress the salad just before serving to keep everything fresh.
What can I use instead of feta cheese?
If you're not a fan of feta, try goat cheese or even a mild blue cheese for a different twist.
How do I store leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge. They’re best eaten within a day to ensure the greens stay crisp.

Garden Delight Salad Recipe Walkthrough

First, grab a large salad bowl that can comfortably hold all your ingredients. Toss in the mixed greens, making sure to fluff them up a bit so they’re nice and airy. Then, add the cherry tomatoes, cucumber, red onion, black olives, and walnuts. Give it a gentle toss to mix everything together and set aside.

Next, in a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, red wine vinegar, dried oregano, salt, and pepper. This dressing is your salad's magic potion β€” it ties all those flavors together beautifully. Once it’s well combined, pour it over your salad, and gently toss everything to ensure even coverage.

Finally, scatter the feta cheese on top. It's best to do this at the end so the cheese maintains its texture and doesn't get too mixed in. Serve immediately for the freshest taste.

Why You'll Love This Recipe

  • Quick and easy to toss together β€” perfect for busy days!
  • Packed with nutritious ingredients that energize.
  • Customizable to fit what you have at home or your personal taste.
  • The perfect mix of textures and flavors β€” crunchy, creamy, tangy, and savory.

Ingredients

2 cups mixed greens (romaine, spinach, arugula)
1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
1/2 cup cucumber, sliced
1/4 cup red onion, thinly sliced
1/4 cup black olives, pitted and sliced
1/4 cup feta cheese, crumbled
1/4 cup walnuts, chopped
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 tablespoon red wine vinegar
1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
Salt and pepper to taste

Step-by-step Instructions

1. In a large salad bowl, combine mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, red onion, black olives, and walnuts.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, red wine vinegar, dried oregano, salt, and pepper.
3. Pour the dressing over the salad ingredients and toss gently to combine.
4. Sprinkle the crumbled feta cheese on top before serving.

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