How to Make a Delicious Mediterranean Salad

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If you're looking for a healthy and vibrant dish that can be enjoyed at any time of the day, then our Mediterranean Salad Recipe is just what you need. This refreshing salad combines fresh vegetables with tangy dressing, making it not only delicious but also packed with essential vitamins and minerals.

Ingredients

For this recipe, you'll need:

• 4 cups mixed greens (arugula, spinach, romaine lettuce)
• 1 small cucumber, diced
• 1 medium tomato, chopped into cubes
• ½ cup Kalamata olives
• 2 green onions, thinly sliced
• 1 avocado, peeled and cubed
• ½ red onion, finely chopped
• Vinaigrette dressing (3 tablespoons olive oil, 1 tablespoon white wine vinegar, salt to taste)

Cooking Time & Servings

This recipe takes about 20 minutes to prepare and serves four people.

Steps to Make a Mediterranean Salad

To start with, wash all your vegetables thoroughly under cold water. This ensures that they are clean before you begin chopping or mixing them together.

1. Begin by preparing the base of the salad which includes washing and drying your mixed greens. Once dry, place them in a large bowl.
2. Add the diced cucumber to the bowl. It adds a nice crisp texture along with its mild flavor that complements well with other ingredients like tomatoes or olives.
3. Chop up the tomato into cubes and add it to the mixture. The sweetness of ripe tomatoes brings balance to the dish.
4. Mix in half a cup of Kalamata olives. They provide a salty contrast against the sweet elements from the tomatoes while also adding umami flavor depth.
5. Slice your green onions finely; this will help distribute their pungent taste throughout the salad evenly without being overpowering. Add them into the bowl.
6. Cut up an avocado in cubes and add it next to other vegetables. Avocado not only provides creaminess but also adds healthy fats which contribute towards satiety after eating.
7. Finely chop your red onion, taking care not to overdo it as raw onions can be harsh on some people's stomachs when consumed too much at once. Gently fold in this chopped red onion with the rest of ingredients so they get evenly distributed.

Vinaigrette Dressing Preparation

The dressing for this Mediterranean salad is essential to bring all flavors together harmoniously. Here’s how you prepare it:

1. Start by measuring out 3 tablespoons of extra virgin olive oil and pouring them into a small bowl.
2. Add one tablespoon of white wine vinegar, which gives the dressing its signature tanginess but not too sour flavor.

The saltiness from this mixture helps enhance other tastes present in the salad. Season according to personal preference - less salty if you prefer milder flavors or more for those who enjoy stronger seasonings.

Assembling and Serving Your Salad

Once all ingredients have been chopped and prepared, gently mix them together until everything is well incorporated but still has some texture. Taste the salad; adjust seasoning as needed using additional salt if necessary before serving.

Serve immediately on individual plates or in a big bowl for sharing among guests when entertaining friends at home. Accompany with freshly baked pita bread for an authentic touch of Mediterranean cuisine experience right within your own kitchen.

Conclusion

Making this Mediterranean Salad is easy and rewarding, providing a burst of freshness along with nutrients essential for good health. Whether you're starting off your day with breakfast or ending it as part of a light evening meal, this salad offers versatility in its presentation and benefits.