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Fresh Mediterranean Side Salad

A vibrant, refreshing side salad featuring crisp mixed greens, juicy cherry tomatoes, cool cucumber, and tangy feta cheese, all dressed in a simple lemon vinaigrette.
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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
  • 4 cups mixed greens spring mix, arugula, spinach, or romaine
  • 1 cup cherry tomatoes halved
  • 1 medium cucumber thinly sliced
  • 1/2 cup feta cheese crumbled
  • 1/4 red onion thinly sliced, optional
  • 1/2 avocado diced, optional
  • 1/4 cup toasted walnuts or pine nuts optional
  • 1/4 cup dried cranberries or pomegranate arils optional
For the Dressing
  • 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
  • 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
  • 1/4 teaspoon sea salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
  • 1 tablespoon fresh herbs like basil, mint, or dill, chopped, optional

Equipment

  • Large salad bowl
  • Small mixing bowl
  • Salad tongs or serving spoons
  • Whisk
  • Cutting board
  • Sharp knife

Method
 

  1. Wash and thoroughly dry the mixed greens using a salad spinner if available.
  2. Place the dried greens in a large salad bowl.
  3. Add the halved cherry tomatoes and sliced cucumber to the bowl with the greens.
  4. If using optional ingredients like red onion, avocado, or dried fruits, add them to the bowl.
  5. Sprinkle the crumbled feta cheese evenly over the salad.
  6. In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, fresh lemon juice, salt, and black pepper until well emulsified.
  7. Just before serving, drizzle the dressing evenly over the salad.
  8. Using salad tongs or two large spoons, gently toss the salad to ensure all ingredients are lightly coated with the dressing.
  9. If using nuts or fresh herbs, sprinkle them on top after tossing.
  10. Serve immediately as a fresh side dish to complement your main course.

Notes

  • For the best flavor, allow the salad to sit with dressing for 5 minutes before serving to allow the flavors to meld.
  • If preparing for a crowd, double or triple the recipe but keep the components separate until just before serving.
  • Customize with seasonal vegetables to make the most of fresh produce.
  • For a dairy-free version, substitute the feta with nutritional yeast or dairy-free cheese alternative.