Greek Salad with Lemon Herb Dressing & Feta Crumble

Greek Salad with Lemon Herb Dressing & Feta Crumble is a deliciously refreshing dish that’s not only vibrant in colors but also bursting with flavors. This salad embodies the essence of Mediterranean cuisine while providing a healthy and satisfying option for any meal. It’s perfect for summer gatherings, easy to make, and full of fresh ingredients that are sure to please anyone at your table.

Why You Will Love This Recipe

This Greek Salad with Lemon Herb Dressing & Feta Crumble is not only visually appealing but also incredibly nutritious. Combining crunchy vegetables, creamy feta, and a zesty dressing, it promises a delightful taste experience. Packed with vitamins and minerals, this salad is a great way to incorporate more greens into your diet. Moreover, it’s versatile—serving as a refreshing side dish or a light main course. Whether you are hosting a barbecue or simply seeking a quick yet satisfying meal, this recipe fits the bill perfectly.

Ingredients

To make this delightful Greek Salad, you will need the following fresh ingredients:

For the Salad:

• 2 cups chopped romaine lettuce
• 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
• 1 cucumber, diced
• 1/2 red onion, thinly sliced
• 1/2 cup Kalamata olives, pitted and halved
• 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese
• 1/2 yellow bell pepper, diced
• 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped

For the Lemon Herb Dressing:

• 3 tablespoons olive oil
• 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
• 1 teaspoon lemon zest
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 clove garlic, minced
• Salt and black pepper to taste

Directions

Step 1: In a large salad bowl, combine the chopped romaine lettuce, halved cherry tomatoes, diced cucumber, thinly sliced red onion, halved Kalamata olives, crumbled feta cheese, diced yellow bell pepper, and chopped parsley. Toss them together gently to ensure even distribution of the ingredients.

Step 2: In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, fresh lemon juice, lemon zest, dried oregano, minced garlic, salt, and black pepper until well combined. This dressing is key to adding a bright and zesty flavor to the salad.

Step 3: Pour the prepared lemon herb dressing over the salad. Using salad tongs, toss everything gently to coat the vegetables evenly. Make sure each piece is dressed but handle with care to avoid smashing the feta cheese.

Step 4: Serve your Greek Salad immediately as a delightful side dish or enjoy it as a light main course. This salad is best enjoyed fresh, allowing the vibrant flavors of the ingredients to shine.

Pro Tips for Making Greek Salad

Here are some pro tips to elevate your Greek Salad experience:

1. Ensure your vegetables are fresh and crisp; this will enhance the texture and overall appeal of the salad.
2. Feel free to customize the salad by adding grilled chicken or shrimp for added protein.
3. Make the dressing in advance and store it in the refrigerator. Give it a good shake before using it to re-emulsify the ingredients.
4. Chilling the salad for a brief period before serving can help enhance the flavors as they meld together.
5. For a twist, consider adding avocados or different herbs like mint for extra freshness.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I prepare the salad in advance?

It’s best to prepare the salad shortly before serving to keep the vegetables fresh and crisp. However, you can prepare the dressing ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to a week.

What can I substitute for feta cheese if I don’t have any?

If you don’t have feta cheese, you can use crumbled goat cheese, cotija cheese, or even sharp cheddar as a substitute, though the flavor will change slightly.

Is Greek salad vegan-friendly?

To make the Greek salad vegan, simply omit the feta cheese or substitute it with a plant-based cheese alternative. The salad is still delicious without it!

How long can I store leftover Greek salad?

Leftover Greek salad can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for 1-2 days. However, the quality will decrease as the dressing will make the vegetables soggy over time.

Can I add more ingredients to this salad?

Absolutely! Feel free to customize your Greek salad by adding chickpeas, artichoke hearts, or any other favorite salad toppings that you like.

Conclusion

Greek Salad with Lemon Herb Dressing & Feta Crumble is an easy and delicious way to bring a taste of the Mediterranean to your table. With its fresh ingredients, vibrant colors, and zesty dressing, this salad is sure to impress your family and friends. Whether enjoyed as a side dish or a main meal, it’s a nutritional powerhouse that won’t disappoint. Try this recipe today and delight in the refreshing flavors it has to offer!