Description
A fresh and vibrant simple side salad featuring mixed greens, cucumbers, cherry tomatoes, red onions, kalamata olives, and feta cheese, tossed in a tangy homemade balsamic vinaigrette. Perfect as a quick, healthy complement to any meal.
Ingredients
Scale
Salad
- 1 5 oz container mixed leafy greens or Romaine lettuce
- 1/2 cucumber, sliced and quartered (approximately 3/4 cup)
- 1/2 – 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1/2 red onion, thinly sliced and halved
- 1/4 – 1/2 cup kalamata olives (black olives can be substituted)
- 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese
Balsamic Vinaigrette
- 1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil
- 1 1/2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- Garlic powder, a pinch or to taste
- Salt, a pinch or to taste
Instructions
- Make the Easy Balsamic Vinaigrette: Whisk together the extra virgin olive oil, balsamic vinegar, Dijon mustard, garlic powder, and salt in a small bowl until well combined. This vinaigrette can be made ahead and stored in the refrigerator for several days.
- Prepare the Salad Vegetables: In a large bowl, combine the mixed leafy greens or Romaine lettuce, sliced and quartered cucumber, halved cherry tomatoes, thinly sliced red onion, and kalamata olives.
- Add the Feta Cheese: Sprinkle the crumbled feta evenly over the combined salad ingredients.
- Toss with Dressing: When ready to serve, drizzle the prepared balsamic vinaigrette over the salad and toss gently to coat all ingredients evenly. Use dressing to taste to avoid over-dressing.
- Serve: For a visually appealing presentation, serve the salad on a flat platter so all ingredients are visible and vibrant.
- Storage Tips: Extra dressing keeps well in the refrigerator for several days. Dress the salad just before serving to keep it fresh and crisp.
Notes
- Use kalamata or black olives depending on your preference for flavor intensity.
- Make the vinaigrette ahead of time to save preparation time.
- Dress the salad just before serving to maintain freshness and crispness.
- Serve the salad on a flat platter for an attractive presentation showing all colorful ingredients.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: Mediterranean
Keywords: simple side salad, balsamic vinaigrette, mixed greens salad, mediterranean salad, healthy side dish
