Dive into a vibrant Mediterranean salad that combines fresh vegetables, herbs, and a zesty dressing for a refreshing, nutrient-dense dish.
Why Mediterranean Salad?
This salad is rich in vitamins, minerals, and healthy fats, promoting heart health and overall well-being. The diverse ingredients offer a plethora of antioxidants, making it a powerhouse of nutrition.
Ingredients:
- 1 cup mixed greens (e.g., arugula, spinach, and baby kale)
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes (Solanum lycopersicum), halved
- 1 cucumber (Cucumis sativus), diced
- ½ red onion (Allium cepa), thinly sliced
- ½ cup Kalamata olives (Olea europaea), pitted
- ¼ cup crumbled feta cheese (Feta)
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley (Petroselinum crispum), chopped
- 3 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil (Olea europaea)
- 1 tablespoon red wine vinegar (Vitis vinifera)
- Freshly cracked black pepper and Fleur de sel (hand-harvested sea salt), to taste
Instructions:
- Combine Salad Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, red onion, Kalamata olives, feta cheese, and parsley.
- Prepare Dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, red wine vinegar, 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:
- Vibrant Vegetables: The colorful vegetables provide essential vitamins and minerals.
- Healthy Fats: Extra virgin olive oil and olives contribute heart-healthy fats.
- Protein Source: Feta cheese adds a delicious tang while boosting protein content.
Final Thoughts
This Mediterranean salad is a refreshing dish perfect for warm days or as a side for any meal. Its vibrant flavors and textures will surely satisfy your cravings.
