This Fresh Mediterranean Salad is the perfect side for summer! It’s packed with crunchy cucumbers, juicy tomatoes, and tangy olives that give it a vibrant taste.
I love tossing everything together with a sprinkle of feta cheese on top. It’s like summer on a plate! This salad is easy to make and keeps you feeling refreshed all day long!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Cucumbers: I recommend using English cucumbers because they’re seedless and have a thin skin. If you can’t find them, regular cucumbers are fine! Just peel them if you prefer less bitterness.
Tomatoes: Ripe, fresh tomatoes are ideal. Cherry or grape tomatoes can be a fun swap, just slice them in half for ease! They add sweetness and are usually available year-round.
Red Onion: The red onion gives a nice color and mild flavor. If you’re sensitive to onion’s bite, consider using green onions or shallots for a milder taste.
Fresh Herbs: Parsley and mint add brightness. If you don’t have mint, fresh basil can work as a lovely alternative. Dried herbs can be used in a pinch, but fresh really shines here.
Olive Oil: Extra virgin olive oil is essential in capturing that Mediterranean taste. If you prefer a lighter flavor, avocado oil is a great substitute.
How Do I Ensure the Best Flavor in My Salad?
The dressing is key to making your salad come alive! Don’t rush this step—whisk together the olive oil, lemon juice, and vinegar thoroughly to blend the flavors well.
- Make sure to taste as you go! Adjust the lemon juice and salt to suit your palate.
- Let the salad chill for at least 30 minutes before serving. This resting time allows all the flavors to mingle beautifully.
- When serving, sprinkle fresh herbs and feta cheese on top for an eye-catching presentation.
Enjoying your salad cold can really enhance the freshness, especially on hot summer days!
Fresh Mediterranean Salad Recipe for Summer
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Fresh Vegetables:
- 2 medium cucumbers, finely diced
- 3 medium ripe tomatoes, finely diced
- 1/2 red onion, finely diced
- 1 red bell pepper, finely diced
Herbs:
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
- 1/4 cup fresh mint, chopped (optional)
For the Dressing:
- 1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil
- 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon red wine vinegar (optional)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
Optional Additions:
- 1/3 cup kalamata olives, pitted and chopped
- 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese for topping
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious Fresh Mediterranean Salad takes about 15 minutes to prepare. Once you’ve diced the veggies and mixed the dressing, let it chill in the fridge for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld. Overall, including chilling time, you should be ready to serve in about 45 minutes!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Vegetables:
Start by washing and finely dicing the cucumbers, tomatoes, red onion, and red bell pepper. Make sure they are all chopped evenly for a nice look and bite. Place all the diced veggies into a large mixing bowl.
2. Add Fresh Herbs:
Next, chop the fresh parsley and mint (if you’re using it). Add these vibrant herbs to the bowl with the vegetables. This will give your salad a fresh and aromatic boost!
3. Whisk the Dressing:
In a small bowl, combine the extra virgin olive oil, fresh lemon juice, red wine vinegar (if you like), dried oregano, salt, and pepper. Whisk everything together until it’s well blended and smooth. This dressing is what brings all your ingredients together!
4. Combine Everything:
Pour the dressing over the chopped vegetables and herbs in the mixing bowl. Give everything a good toss until all the veggies are evenly coated with the dressing. This is where the magic happens!
5. Incorporate Olives:
If you’re adding kalamata olives, gently fold them into the salad now. They add a perfect salty bite that complements the freshness beautifully.
6. Chill and Season:
Take a moment to adjust the seasoning by tasting and adding more salt and pepper if needed. Cover the salad and place it in the fridge for at least 30 minutes. This will allow all the flavors to blend wonderfully together.
7. Serve with Feta:
Before you are ready to serve, sprinkle the crumbled feta cheese on top for an additional burst of flavor. It adds creaminess and a delightful salty contrast!
8. Enjoy!
Serve the salad chilled or at room temperature as a delightful side dish to accompany all your summer meals. Enjoy the freshness!
This salad truly showcases fresh, crisp vegetables combined with a zesty lemon and herb dressing—perfect to savor on hot summer days!
FAQ for Fresh Mediterranean Salad
Can I Use Different Vegetables in This Salad?
Absolutely! Feel free to swap or add vegetables based on your preferences or what you have on hand. Cherry tomatoes, radishes, or even bell pepper in different colors can add a fun twist.
How Long Will This Salad Last in the Fridge?
This salad is best enjoyed fresh, but if stored in an airtight container, it will keep in the fridge for about 2-3 days. Note that the veggies may become a bit softer over time, but the flavors will still be tasty!
Can I Prepare This Salad in Advance?
Yes! You can prep the veggies and make the dressing a day ahead. Just store them separately in the fridge and combine them before serving for the freshest taste.
What Can I Substitute for Feta Cheese?
If you’re not a fan of feta or need a dairy-free option, try crumbled tofu for a similar texture, or leave it out entirely and instead add a handful of toasted nuts for crunch!
