Go Back
lettuce salad recipes

Classic Mediterranean Lettuce Salad

A refreshing, crisp lettuce salad with cucumber, tomatoes, red onion, and feta cheese, dressed in a simple olive oil and lemon juice vinaigrette. Perfect for summer meals or as a side dish year-round.
Print Recipe Pin Recipe
Prep Time 15 minutes
Total Time 15 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Green Salads
Cuisine: Mediterranean
Calories: 120
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Salad Base
  • 1 head romaine lettuce torn into bite-sized pieces
  • 1 cucumber sliced
  • 1 cup cherry tomatoes halved
  • 1/4 red onion thinly sliced
  • 1/4 cup feta cheese crumbled
For the Dressing
  • 2 tbsp olive oil extra virgin preferred
  • 1 tbsp lemon juice freshly squeezed
  • Salt and pepper to taste
Optional Add-ins
  • 1/2 cup bell peppers diced, any color
  • 1/4 cup carrots shredded
  • 1/3 cup radishes thinly sliced
  • 1 avocado diced
  • 1/4 cup nuts or seeds toasted
  • 1/4 cup dried cranberries
  • 2-3 tbsp fresh herbs chopped (basil, dill, or parsley)

Equipment

  • Large mixing bowl
  • Salad spinner
  • Cutting board
  • Sharp knife
  • Small bowl for dressing
  • Whisk
  • Salad servers

Method
 

  1. Thoroughly wash the romaine lettuce leaves in cold water. Dry completely using a salad spinner or clean kitchen towels.
  2. Tear the lettuce into bite-sized pieces and place in a large serving bowl.
  3. Slice the cucumber into thin rounds, halve the cherry tomatoes, and thinly slice the red onion.
  4. Add the prepared cucumber, tomatoes, and red onion to the bowl with the lettuce.
  5. Gently toss the vegetables together to distribute evenly.
  6. Sprinkle the crumbled feta cheese over the salad.
  7. In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil and lemon juice. Season with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste.
  8. Just before serving, drizzle the dressing over the salad and toss gently to coat all ingredients evenly.
  9. Serve immediately while the lettuce is crisp and fresh.

Notes

  • For the best flavor, serve this salad immediately after dressing.
  • To make ahead, prepare all ingredients and store separately, assembling just before serving.
  • For a heartier meal, add grilled chicken, chickpeas, or hard-boiled eggs.
  • Customize with seasonal vegetables for the freshest flavor profile.