If you crave a salad that bursts with the vibrant flavors of the Mediterranean, the Mediterranean Salad with Feta, Olives, and Fresh Herbs Recipe is exactly what you need. This bright and refreshing salad combines crisp cucumbers, juicy tomatoes, briny kalamata olives, and tangy feta cheese with a sprinkle of fresh herbs that elevate every bite. Simple ingredients come together quickly to create a dish that’s perfect for any occasion, whether a light lunch or a colorful side that steals the show.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Each ingredient in this Mediterranean salad plays a crucial role, lending its unique flavor, texture, or color to make this dish truly spectacular. These straightforward, wholesome ingredients keep the salad fresh and exciting.
- English cucumber: Adds a cool crunch that refreshes the palate.
- Roma tomatoes: Bring juicy sweetness and a pop of vibrant red color.
- Onion: Thinly sliced for just the right sharpness without overpowering.
- Fresh parsley: Offers a bright, herbaceous note that lifts the flavors.
- Fresh basil: Adds aromatic sweetness and depth to the salad.
- Kalamata olives: Provide a salty, savory punch with rich, fruity undertones.
- Feta cheese: Crumbled for creamy, tangy bursts throughout.
- Olive oil: The heart of the dressing, bringing silkiness and richness.
- Red wine vinegar: Adds essential acidity to balance all the ingredients.
- Dried oregano: Infuses a classic Mediterranean herb flavor.
- Kosher salt: Enhances all the natural flavors without overpowering.
- Freshly ground black pepper: Adds a mild heat that complements the salad perfectly.
How to Make Mediterranean Salad with Feta, Olives, and Fresh Herbs Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Vegetables
Start by preparing the fresh ingredients to maximize their natural textures and flavors. Halve and slice the English cucumber to get perfect bite-sized pieces. Chop the Roma tomatoes into chunky pieces to add juiciness without making the salad watery. Thinly slice the onion to provide a subtle, crisp contrast. Gather the fresh parsley and basil by giving them a rough chop to release their aromas without making them too small to enjoy.
Step 2: Combine Vegetables and Herbs
In a large salad bowl, gently toss together the sliced cucumber, chopped tomatoes, thinly sliced onion, parsley, basil, and halved kalamata olives. This mix of colors and textures already makes the salad visually inviting and aromatic. Tossing gently ensures the delicate herbs don’t bruise and the vegetables maintain their crispness.
Step 3: Add Feta and Mix Dressing
Next, crumble the feta cheese evenly over your vegetable and herb mix. Drizzle the salad with olive oil and red wine vinegar, letting their flavors mingle as you prepare to season. Sprinkle in dried oregano, kosher salt, and freshly ground black pepper—which round out the dish with that unmistakable Mediterranean flavor profile.
Step 4: Toss and Serve
Give everything a final toss to coat every bite with the vibrant dressing and seasonings. Taste the salad and adjust the seasoning if needed, adding more salt, pepper, or even a splash of red wine vinegar to suit your preference. This salad is best served immediately, so it stays fresh, crunchy, and bursting with flavor.
How to Serve Mediterranean Salad with Feta, Olives, and Fresh Herbs Recipe
Garnishes
Enhance your Mediterranean Salad with Feta, Olives, and Fresh Herbs Recipe by garnishing it with a sprinkle of extra crumbled feta, a few whole kalamata olives, or a drizzle of high-quality extra virgin olive oil. Fresh lemon zest or a few mint leaves can add an unexpected brightness, making every forkful even more delightful.
Side Dishes
This salad pairs beautifully with grilled chicken or fish, complementing the charred flavors with its fresh acidity. It’s also fantastic alongside warm pita bread and hummus for a light vegetarian meal. Consider serving it with a side of couscous or quinoa to add heartiness if you want a more substantial dish.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, serve this Mediterranean salad in hollowed-out tomatoes or cucumbers for a beautiful, edible presentation. Layer the salad ingredients in a clear glass jar for colorful, portable lunches, or plate it atop a bed of baby greens for a more substantial salad experience. Each presentation style invites a fresh appreciation of this simple, flavorful recipe.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Store any leftover Mediterranean Salad with Feta, Olives, and Fresh Herbs Recipe in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two days. Keep in mind that the salad is best enjoyed fresh, as the vegetables may release extra liquid over time, and the feta might soften.
Freezing
This salad is not suitable for freezing due to the fresh vegetables and cheese, which will lose their texture and become watery upon thawing. It’s best enjoyed fresh or within a couple of days if refrigerated.
Reheating
Since this is a fresh, chilled salad, reheating is not recommended. However, if you’d like to enjoy a warm meal, consider serving it alongside warmed dishes or incorporating it fresh as a cold contrast to hot foods.
FAQs
Can I use other types of olives in this salad?
Absolutely! While kalamata olives lend a distinctive flavor, green olives or Castelvetrano olives can add a different but equally delicious twist to your salad.
Is it possible to make this salad vegan?
Yes, simply omit the feta cheese or substitute it with a vegan cheese alternative or tofu to maintain the creamy texture without dairy.
How long does this salad stay fresh once mixed?
The salad is best enjoyed immediately but can be stored in the refrigerator for up to two days. Expect that the vegetables will soften slightly and the dressing may separate over time.
Can I add other herbs to this recipe?
Definitely! Fresh mint, dill, or oregano can complement the flavors beautifully. Feel free to experiment with your favorite fresh herbs.
What can I use instead of red wine vinegar?
If you don’t have red wine vinegar, apple cider vinegar or lemon juice are great substitutes that provide the acidity needed to brighten the salad.
Final Thoughts
This Mediterranean Salad with Feta, Olives, and Fresh Herbs Recipe is one of those dishes that feels like a warm hug on a plate — simple, fresh, and bursting with flavor. It’s an effortless way to bring sunshine and color to your table any day of the week. Give it a try and watch how quickly it becomes a favorite you want to make again and again!
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Mediterranean Salad with Feta, Olives, and Fresh Herbs Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Total Time: 10 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Salad
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: Mediterranean
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
This refreshing Mediterranean Salad combines crisp cucumber, juicy Roma tomatoes, tangy kalamata olives, and creamy feta cheese tossed in a zesty red wine vinegar and olive oil dressing, finished with fragrant herbs and spices for a vibrant and healthy dish perfect as a light meal or side.
Ingredients
Vegetables and Herbs
- 1 English cucumber, halved and sliced
- 3 large Roma tomatoes, chopped
- 1/2 onion, thinly sliced
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
- 2 tablespoons fresh basil, chopped
Other Ingredients
- 3/4 cup kalamata olives, halved
- 4 1/2 ounces feta cheese, crumbled
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 1/2 tablespoons red wine vinegar
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt, plus more to taste
- Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
Instructions
- Prepare the Vegetables: In a large salad bowl, combine the sliced English cucumber, chopped Roma tomatoes, thinly sliced onion, chopped parsley, chopped basil, and halved kalamata olives. Gently toss to mix the vegetables and herbs evenly.
- Add Feta and Mix Dressing: Add the crumbled feta cheese to the bowl. Drizzle the olive oil and red wine vinegar over the ingredients. Sprinkle in the dried oregano, kosher salt, and freshly ground black pepper.
- Toss and Serve: Toss all the ingredients together until the salad is well mixed and everything is evenly coated with dressing. Taste and adjust seasoning by adding more salt or pepper if needed. Serve immediately for the freshest flavor.
Notes
- For a vegan version, substitute feta cheese with vegan cheese or omit entirely.
- Use fresh oregano instead of dried for a more aromatic flavor.
- Add a squeeze of fresh lemon juice for extra brightness.
- This salad is best served immediately but can be refrigerated for up to 1 day; ingredients may release water over time.
- Serve as a side dish or add grilled chicken for a complete meal.
