Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This Mediterranean Garden Salad is a refreshing and healthy dish that brings together crisp lettuce, juicy cherry tomatoes, crunchy cucumbers, and briny black olives. Tossed in a light olive oil and herb dressing, it’s a versatile salad that pairs beautifully with grilled meats, pasta, or even as a standalone meal. The combination of fresh ingredients and simple seasoning makes it a perfect choice for any occasion.
Ingredients
(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)
- Lettuce
- Cucumbers
- Cherry tomatoes
- Black olives
- Olive oil
- Fresh herbs (such as parsley or oregano)
- Lemon juice
- Salt and pepper
Directions
- Wash and chop the lettuce into bite-sized pieces.
- Slice the cucumbers and cherry tomatoes.
- Add the lettuce, cucumbers, tomatoes, and black olives to a large salad bowl.
- In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, fresh herbs, salt, and pepper.
- Drizzle the dressing over the salad and toss gently to combine.
- Serve immediately and enjoy.
Servings and Timing
- Servings: 4
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 10 minutes
Variations
- Add Cheese: Crumbled feta or shaved Parmesan can enhance the flavors.
- Include Protein: Add grilled chicken, shrimp, or chickpeas for a heartier salad.
- Different Greens: Try arugula, spinach, or mixed greens instead of lettuce.
- Extra Crunch: Toss in toasted pine nuts, almonds, or sunflower seeds.
Storage/Reheating
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
- If storing, keep the dressing separate to prevent the salad from getting soggy.
- This salad is best enjoyed fresh and does not require reheating.
FAQs
How can I make this salad ahead of time?
You can prep the ingredients in advance and store them separately. Add the dressing just before serving.
Can I use bottled dressing instead of homemade?
Yes, but a fresh olive oil and herb dressing enhances the Mediterranean flavors.
What type of lettuce works best?
Romaine, butter lettuce, or a mix of greens work well for this salad.
Can I add other vegetables?
Absolutely! Bell peppers, red onions, or radishes are great additions.
Is this salad gluten-free?
Yes, all ingredients are naturally gluten-free.
What kind of olives should I use?
Black olives are commonly used, but you can also try Kalamata olives for more flavor.
Can I make this salad vegan?
Yes, this salad is naturally vegan. Just avoid adding cheese if you’re following a vegan diet.
How do I keep cucumbers from making the salad watery?
You can lightly salt the cucumber slices and let them sit for a few minutes before adding them to the salad.
What can I use instead of olive oil?
Avocado oil or a light vinaigrette can be good substitutes.
Can I serve this salad warm?
This salad is best served cold or at room temperature for maximum freshness.
Conclusion
The Mediterranean Garden Salad with Olive Oil Dressing is a simple yet flavorful dish that brings together fresh ingredients and vibrant Mediterranean flavors. Whether you’re serving it as a side or enjoying it as a light meal, this salad is sure to be a refreshing addition to your table. Try different variations to customize it to your taste, and enjoy a wholesome and delicious dish anytime.
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Mediterranean Garden Salad with Olive Oil Dressing
- Total Time: 10 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
This Mediterranean Garden Salad is a refreshing and vibrant dish made with crisp lettuce, juicy cherry tomatoes, crunchy cucumbers, and savory black olives. Tossed in a homemade olive oil and herb dressing, this salad is a perfect side dish for grilled meats, seafood, or pasta. Light, healthy, and full of Mediterranean flavors, it’s a must-try for any salad lover!
Ingredients
- 4 cups romaine or mixed lettuce, chopped
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 cucumber, sliced
- 1/2 cup black olives, sliced
- 1/4 red onion, thinly sliced
- 1/4 cup feta cheese, crumbled (optional)
For the Dressing:
- 1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil
- 2 tbsp lemon juice
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
Instructions
- In a large salad bowl, combine lettuce, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, black olives, and red onion.
- In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, oregano, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper until well combined.
- Drizzle the dressing over the salad and toss gently to coat all ingredients evenly.
- If using, sprinkle crumbled feta cheese on top for extra flavor.
- Serve immediately as a side dish or enjoy as a light meal.
Notes
- For extra crunch, add toasted pine nuts or croutons.
- Substitute feta cheese with goat cheese or leave it out for a dairy-free version.
- Best served fresh, but you can store leftovers (without dressing) in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 1 day.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Category: Salad
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: Mediterranean