Name: Vibrant Mediterranean Chopped Salad Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Ingredients: 2 cups cherry tomatoes, halved; 1 cucumber, diced; 1 bell pepper (red or yellow), diced; 1/2 red onion, finely chopped; 1 cup Kalamata olives, pitted and halved; 1 cup feta cheese, crumbled; 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped; 1/4 cup olive oil; 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice; 1 teaspoon dried oregano; Salt and pepper to taste

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Imagine a salad bursting with flavors, colors, and textures; that’s what this Mediterranean chopped salad offers. It’s a fresh and healthy combination of diced vegetables, olives, and feta cheese, making it a perfect choice for a light lunch or a side dish at dinner. Whether you’re looking for a quick meal or a refreshing accompaniment, this Mediterranean salad is sure to satisfy.

Perfect for summer gatherings or weeknight dinners, this chopped salad is versatile and easy to prepare. You can customize it to your liking, adding more veggies or proteins as desired. The dressing is zesty and brings all the ingredients together, creating a delightful taste experience.

Colorful Ingredients

The Mediterranean chopped salad is a visual feast, bursting with a variety of colors and textures.

Each component plays a vital role in creating a harmonious dish that is both appealing and satisfying.

Diced cucumbers provide a refreshing crunch, while halved cherry tomatoes add a burst of sweetness.

Sliced bell peppers contribute vibrant hues and a hint of crispness, and Kalamata olives introduce a delightful briny note.

Zesty Dressing

One of the highlights of this Mediterranean salad is the zesty lemon-olive oil dressing.

This simple yet flavorful blend works to enhance the freshness of the vegetables while tying all the elements together.

A combination of olive oil, fresh lemon juice, and dried oregano creates a dressing that is both tangy and aromatic, perfect for drizzling over the vibrant salad.

Customization Options

This chopped salad is exceptionally versatile, making it easy to tailor it to your preferences.

Feel free to add extra ingredients, such as diced avocado for creaminess or chickpeas for a protein boost.

The possibilities are endless; adding grilled chicken or shrimp transforms it into a heartier meal suitable for any time of day.

Preparation Made Easy

Preparing this Mediterranean salad is a breeze, taking only about 15 minutes from start to finish.

Simply wash and chop the vegetables, mix everything in a large bowl, and whisk together the dressing.

For those who prefer a more developed flavor, letting the salad chill for 30 minutes allows the ingredients to meld beautifully.

Nutritional Benefits

This Mediterranean chopped salad is not only delicious but also packed with nutritional benefits.

Each serving is low in calories while providing healthy fats from olive oil and feta cheese, along with vitamins and minerals from the fresh vegetables.

It’s an excellent choice for health-conscious eaters looking for a light yet fulfilling option.

Serving Suggestions

Serve this vibrant Mediterranean salad as a refreshing side dish at gatherings, or enjoy it as a light lunch.

Pair it with grilled meats or fish for a complete meal, or serve it alongside crusty bread for a satisfying finish.

Whichever way you choose, this salad is sure to impress with its fresh flavors and beautiful presentation.