Mediterranean Herb-Infused Greek Salad

🕒 Prep: 15 min
🔥 Cook:
🍽 Serves: 4
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Welcome to a taste of the Mediterranean with this Herb-Infused Greek Salad! This recipe combines fresh, vibrant ingredients with aromatic herbs, making it a perfect addition to any meal or a delicious standalone dish.

Ingredients for Mediterranean Herb-Infused Greek Salad

Let's dive into what makes each ingredient special in this salad. The base of the salad is romaine lettuce, offering a crisp and refreshing crunch. Cherry tomatoes bring a burst of sweetness and juiciness, while cucumber adds a hydrating, cool element. Red onion provides a sharp, tangy bite that balances the sweeter ingredients. Kalamata olives introduce a rich, briny flavor, elevating the Mediterranean feel. Feta cheese is creamy and slightly tangy, perfect for tying the salad together. The fresh herbs, oregano and mint, infuse the salad with aromatic, bright notes. Finally, the dressing, made with extra virgin olive oil, red wine vinegar, salt, and black pepper, brings everything together with its rich, tangy, and flavorful profile.

Tips & Tricks

  • For an extra burst of flavor, let the salad sit for a few minutes after tossing to allow the flavors to meld.
  • To keep your onions mild, soak them in ice water for a few minutes before adding them to the salad.
  • Use high-quality olive oil for the best flavor result in your dressing.

Serving Suggestions

This salad pairs beautifully with grilled chicken or fish for a complete meal. For a vegetarian option, serve it alongside a hearty lentil soup. It's also a fantastic side for a summer barbecue with grilled vegetables.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make this salad ahead of time?
It's best enjoyed fresh, but you can prepare the ingredients a few hours in advance. Just keep the dressing separate until you're ready to serve.
What can I use instead of feta cheese?
If you're not a fan of feta, try goat cheese or even a sprinkle of Parmesan for a different flavor profile.
Is there a substitute for Kalamata olives?
Black or green olives can work as substitutes, but they will slightly alter the flavor.

Mediterranean Herb-Infused Greek Salad Recipe Walkthrough

Start by grabbing your largest salad bowl because you're going to want plenty of room to toss this salad without spilling over. In that bowl, combine the chopped romaine lettuce, halved cherry tomatoes, sliced cucumber, thinly sliced red onion, and those delicious Kalamata olives. This is your salad base, and it's already looking colorful and inviting!

Next, let's whip up a simple dressing. In a small bowl, combine the extra virgin olive oil, red wine vinegar, salt, and black pepper. Use a whisk or a fork to mix them together until they're well combined. Now, drizzled over the salad base, this dressing will coat every ingredient, making sure you get flavor in each bite.

Now, gently toss the salad. You want every component to be evenly coated with the dressing, but be careful not to mash or crush the ingredients. Once tossed, sprinkle the crumbled feta cheese over the top. This cheese adds a creamy texture and a tangy flavor that complements the rest of the salad beautifully.

Finally, sprinkle the fresh oregano and mint over the salad. These herbs are not just for garnish; they add an aromatic freshness that lifts the entire dish. Serve immediately to ensure the lettuce remains crisp and the flavors are at their peak.

Why You'll Love This Recipe

  • Bursting with fresh, vibrant flavors from the Mediterranean.
  • Quick and easy to prepare, perfect for busy weeknights.
  • Healthy and packed with nutrients, keeping you energized.
  • Elevated with the aromatic touch of fresh herbs.
  • Customizable to suit your taste preferences.

Ingredients

2 cups chopped romaine lettuce
1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
1/2 cup cucumber, sliced
1/4 cup red onion, thinly sliced
1/2 cup Kalamata olives, pitted
1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese
1 tbsp fresh oregano, chopped
1 tbsp fresh mint, chopped
2 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
1 tbsp red wine vinegar
1/2 tsp salt
1/4 tsp black pepper

Step-by-step Instructions

1. In a large salad bowl, combine the chopped romaine lettuce, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, red onion, and Kalamata olives.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, red wine vinegar, salt, and black pepper.
3. Drizzle the dressing over the salad and toss gently to combine.
4. Sprinkle the crumbled feta, fresh oregano, and mint over the salad.
5. Serve immediately for best flavor.

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