Celebrate the vibrant flavors of Greece with a traditional Greek salad, featuring fresh vegetables, feta cheese, and a zesty dressing.
Why Greek Salad?
Greek salad is a refreshing way to enjoy fresh produce and healthy fats. The combination of ingredients provides essential nutrients and antioxidants, promoting overall health.
Ingredients:
- 1 large cucumber (Cucumis sativus), diced
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes (Solanum lycopersicum), halved
- ½ red onion (Allium cepa), thinly sliced
- 1 bell pepper (Capsicum annuum), diced (any color)
- ½ cup Kalamata olives (Olea europaea), pitted
- ¼ cup crumbled feta cheese (Feta)
- 3 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil (Olea europaea)
- 1 tablespoon red wine vinegar (Vitis vinifera)
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano (Origanum vulgare)
- Fleur de sel (hand-harvested sea salt) and freshly cracked black pepper, to taste
Instructions:
- Combine Salad Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine diced cucumber, cherry tomatoes, red onion, bell pepper, Kalamata olives, and feta cheese.
- Prepare Dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, red wine vinegar, oregano, Fleur de sel, and black pepper.
- Toss and Serve: Drizzle the dressing over the salad and toss gently to combine them. Serve immediately.
Nutrition Tips from Your Dietitian:
- Hydrating Vegetables: Cucumbers and tomatoes have high water content, aiding in hydration.
- Healthy Fats: Extra virgin olive oil and olives contribute beneficial fats for heart health.
- Calcium Source: Feta cheese adds calcium, supporting bone health.
Final Thoughts
Greek salad is a delightful, refreshing dish that highlights the best of Mediterranean flavors. It’s perfect as a side dish or a light meal, bringing a taste of Greece to your table.