Go Back
iceberg lettuce salad

Classic Iceberg Lettuce Salad with Feta

A refreshing iceberg lettuce salad featuring crisp vegetables and tangy feta cheese, dressed with a simple lemon vinaigrette. Perfect for a light lunch or side dish.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Total Time 15 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Green Salads
Cuisine: American
Calories: 165

Ingredients
  

For the Salad
  • 1 head iceberg lettuce chilled
  • 1 cup cherry tomatoes halved
  • 1 medium cucumber sliced into half-moons
  • 1/4 medium red onion thinly sliced
  • 1/2 cup feta cheese crumbled
  • 1/4 cup sliced radishes optional
  • 1/2 avocado diced, optional
  • 1/4 cup toasted sunflower seeds optional
  • 2 tablespoons fresh herbs such as dill, parsley, or chives, optional
For the Dressing
  • 3 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
  • 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper

Equipment

  • Large salad bowl
  • Small mixing bowl or jar for dressing
  • Sharp knife
  • Cutting board

Method
 

  1. Remove the outer leaves of the iceberg lettuce, rinse thoroughly under cold water, and pat dry. Cut into quarters, remove the core, and chop into bite-sized pieces. Place in a large salad bowl.
  2. Wash cherry tomatoes and slice them in half. Add to the bowl with the lettuce.
  3. Peel the cucumber if desired. Slice it lengthwise, then cut into half-moon shapes about 1/4 inch thick. Add to the salad bowl.
  4. Thinly slice the red onion into half-moons. If you find raw onion too strong, soak the slices in ice water for 5 minutes, then drain and pat dry. Add to the salad.
  5. Crumble the feta cheese over the vegetables, reserving a little for garnish if desired.
  6. In a small bowl or jar, whisk together the olive oil, fresh lemon juice, salt, and pepper until emulsified. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed.
  7. Just before serving, drizzle the dressing over the salad and toss gently to coat all ingredients evenly.
  8. Finish with any optional toppings and the reserved feta cheese. Serve immediately.

Notes

  • For the crispest texture, chill your salad bowl in the refrigerator before assembling.
  • If preparing ahead, store all components separately and assemble just before serving.
  • For a complete meal, add protein such as grilled chicken, hard-boiled eggs, or chickpeas.
  • Feel free to substitute the feta with other cheeses like goat cheese or blue cheese for variety.