If you’re craving a burst of fresh, vibrant flavors in a single bowl, let me introduce you to the Mediterranean Green Salad Bowl Recipe. This delightful salad brings together crisp spring mix greens, juicy cherry tomatoes, briny Kalamata olives, and creamy feta cheese, all perfectly melded with a zesty homemade Greek dressing. It’s quick, easy, and makes a stunning centerpiece for any meal or a refreshing standalone option on warm days.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering just a handful of fresh, wholesome ingredients, this salad is a testament to how simple components can create something truly spectacular. Each element plays a vital role, from the crisp textures to the vibrant colors and punchy flavors that elevate the entire bowl.
- 5 cups spring mix: A mix of baby lettuces, arugula, and spinach adds varied textures and a fresh green base.
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved: These bring juicy sweetness and a pop of vivid red.
- 1 cup cucumber, sliced: Adds cool crunch and balances the salad’s acidity.
- 1/2 cup Kalamata olives, pitted and halved: Their briny richness introduces a savory depth.
- 1/4 cup red onion, thinly sliced: Offers a mild bite and a touch of purple color for contrast.
- 3.5 oz feta cheese, crumbled: Creamy and salty, it complements the olives beautifully.
- 1/4 cup extra-virgin olive oil: Forms the salad’s luscious dressing base.
- 2 tablespoons red wine vinegar: Provides a tangy lift that brightens every bite.
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano: Brings aromatic, earthy notes typical of Mediterranean dishes.
- 1 garlic clove, minced: Infuses subtle pungency and warmth.
- 1/2 teaspoon Dijon mustard: Helps emulsify the dressing while adding a gentle tang.
- 1/4 teaspoon salt: Enhances all the flavors without overpowering.
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper: Adds just the right amount of spice to round out the dressing.
How to Make Mediterranean Green Salad Bowl Recipe
Step 1: Combine the Fresh Ingredients
Start by tossing together the spring mix, cherry tomatoes, sliced cucumber, Kalamata olives, and red onion in a large salad bowl. This mix of textures and colors creates the perfect canvas for your dressing.
Step 2: Whisk the Greek Dressing
In a small bowl or jar, mix the extra-virgin olive oil, red wine vinegar, dried oregano, minced garlic, Dijon mustard, salt, and black pepper. Whisk or shake vigorously until the dressing is fully emulsified and silky smooth.
Step 3: Dress the Salad
Just before serving, drizzle the dressing over the greens and veggies. Toss gently to coat everything evenly without bruising the delicate leaves.
Step 4: Finish with Feta Cheese
Sprinkle the crumbled feta cheese on top for that creamy, tangy finish. Serve immediately to enjoy the freshest flavors and textures the Mediterranean Green Salad Bowl Recipe can offer.
How to Serve Mediterranean Green Salad Bowl Recipe
Garnishes
Elevate the salad with a sprinkle of freshly chopped parsley or a handful of toasted pine nuts for crunch. A few lemon wedges on the side also work wonderfully for an extra zesty twist.
Side Dishes
This salad pairs beautifully with grilled chicken, roasted vegetables, or a light seafood dish like lemon herb shrimp. It’s versatile enough to complement both hearty mains and vegetarian-friendly plates.
Creative Ways to Present
For a colorful lunchbox or picnic, layer the ingredients in a mason jar starting with the dressing at the bottom and finishing with the feta on top to keep elements fresh until serving time. You can also serve it in individual bowls or pretty glass dishes to highlight the vibrant Mediterranean colors.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you find yourself with any leftovers, store the salad and dressing separately in airtight containers. This keeps the greens crisp and the dressing flavorful without making the salad soggy.
Freezing
Due to the fresh nature of the ingredients, freezing this Mediterranean Green Salad Bowl Recipe isn’t recommended. The textures of the greens and fresh veggies won’t hold up well after thawing.
Reheating
This salad is best enjoyed fresh and does not require reheating. If paired with warm sides, reheat those separately while keeping the salad chilled and crisp for the perfect contrast.
FAQs
Can I use other greens besides spring mix?
Absolutely! Feel free to experiment with kale, romaine, or butter lettuce depending on what you like or have on hand. Each will bring a slightly different texture and taste.
Is there a vegan alternative for the feta cheese?
Yes, you can substitute the feta with a plant-based cheese or simply omit it and add extra olives or nuts for richness and texture.
How long does the dressing keep?
The dressing can be stored in the refrigerator for up to a week in an airtight container. Just give it a good shake before using as the ingredients may separate.
Can I add protein to this salad?
Definitely! Grilled chicken, chickpeas, or cooked quinoa are excellent additions that make the salad more filling and protein-rich.
What can I do if I don’t have Kalamata olives?
If Kalamata olives are unavailable, black olives or green olives can be used as substitutes, though they will alter the flavor slightly. Each option still adds a savory touch to the salad.
Final Thoughts
Now that you have the full scoop on making this delicious Mediterranean Green Salad Bowl Recipe, I hope you’re inspired to toss one up and savor this healthy, refreshing meal for yourself and your loved ones. Its simple, fresh ingredients and bright flavors truly make it a personal favorite—once you try it, I’m sure it will be yours too!
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Mediterranean Green Salad Bowl Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Total Time: 15 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Salad
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: Mediterranean
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
A refreshing Mediterranean Green Salad Bowl featuring a mix of fresh spring greens, juicy cherry tomatoes, crisp cucumbers, tangy Kalamata olives, and creamy feta cheese, all tossed in a zesty homemade Greek dressing made from olive oil, red wine vinegar, and herbs. Perfect as a light lunch or a vibrant side dish ready in just 15 minutes.
Ingredients
Salad Ingredients
- 5 cups spring mix (baby lettuces, arugula, spinach)
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 cup cucumber, sliced
- 1/2 cup Kalamata olives, pitted and halved
- 1/4 cup red onion, thinly sliced
- 3.5 oz feta cheese, crumbled
Dressing Ingredients
- 1/4 cup extra-virgin olive oil
- 2 tablespoons red wine vinegar
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 garlic clove, minced
- 1/2 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions
- Combine Salad Ingredients: In a large salad bowl, mix together the spring mix, halved cherry tomatoes, sliced cucumber, pitted and halved Kalamata olives, and thinly sliced red onion until evenly distributed.
- Prepare Dressing: In a small bowl or jar, whisk together extra-virgin olive oil, red wine vinegar, dried oregano, minced garlic, Dijon mustard, salt, and black pepper until the mixture emulsifies into a smooth dressing.
- Toss Salad with Dressing: Just before serving, drizzle the prepared Greek dressing over the salad and toss gently to coat all ingredients evenly without bruising the greens.
- Add Feta Cheese and Serve: Sprinkle the crumbled feta cheese over the top of the salad and serve immediately for the freshest taste.
Notes
- For a vegan version, omit the feta cheese or substitute with a plant-based cheese alternative.
- Use fresh oregano if available for a more vibrant flavor instead of dried oregano.
- Chill all salad ingredients before assembly to keep the salad crisp and refreshing.
- This salad pairs well with grilled meats or as a light standalone meal.
- Adjust salt and pepper according to taste, especially considering the saltiness of the feta and olives.
