Craving a healthy, flavorful meal that's ready in minutes? Look no further than this vibrant Greek Chopped Salad! This easy recipe is packed with fresh ingredients, offering a delightful combination of crunchy vegetables, salty feta, and a zesty lemon-herb dressing. Perfect for a quick lunch, a light dinner, or a refreshing side dish, this Greek Chopped Salad is a delicious way to enjoy the best of Mediterranean cuisine. It’s one of those healthy meals that’s so satisfying, you won't even miss the heavier stuff!
Ingredients: A Symphony of Fresh Flavors
This recipe serves 4-6 people. Adjust ingredient quantities as needed for your group size.
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Vegetables:
- 1 Cucumber, diced
- 1 pint Cherry Tomatoes, halved
- 1 Red Bell Pepper, diced
- 1/2 Red Onion, thinly sliced
- 1 cup Kalamata Olives, pitted and halved
- 1/2 cup Feta Cheese, crumbled
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Protein (optional):
- 1 can (15 ounces) chickpeas, rinsed and drained (or 1.5 cups cooked chickpeas)
- Grilled chicken or shrimp (about 1.5 cups cooked, diced)
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Dressing:
- 1/4 cup Extra Virgin Olive Oil
- 2 tablespoons Lemon Juice (freshly squeezed is best!)
- 1 tablespoon Red Wine Vinegar
- 1 teaspoon Dried Oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon Dried Basil
- Salt and freshly ground Black Pepper to taste
Instructions: A Simple Guide to Salad Perfection
This quick dinner idea comes together in a flash. Follow these easy steps for a delicious Greek Chopped Salad:
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Prep the Veggies: Wash and chop all your vegetables. For a truly chopped salad, aim for roughly similar sizes to ensure even distribution of flavors and textures.
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Combine Ingredients: In a large bowl, gently combine the cucumber, tomatoes, bell pepper, red onion, olives, and feta cheese. If using, add the chickpeas or grilled protein now.
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Whisk the Dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, lemon juice, red wine vinegar, oregano, basil, salt, and pepper. Taste and adjust seasonings as needed. More lemon juice for extra zing, or a touch more olive oil for creaminess.
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Dress the Salad: Pour the dressing over the salad and toss gently to combine. Don't over-toss, as you want to preserve the vegetables' crispness.
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Serve & Enjoy: Serve immediately or chill for later. This salad tastes great both ways!
Cooking Tips & Variations: Elevate Your Greek Salad Game
- For extra crunch: Add some toasted pine nuts or crumbled pita bread.
- Spice it up: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the dressing for a little heat.
- Make it a meal: Add grilled chicken, shrimp, or falafel for extra protein.
- Customize your veggies: Feel free to add other vegetables you enjoy, such as artichoke hearts, zucchini, or carrots.
- Homemade dressing is best: While store-bought Greek dressing works, nothing beats the fresh flavors of a homemade dressing.
Nutritional Information (Per Serving, approximate):
This information is an estimate and may vary depending on the specific ingredients used.
- Calories: Approximately 300-400
- Protein: 10-15g
- Fat: 20-25g
- Carbohydrates: 20-25g
This delicious and healthy Greek Chopped Salad is perfect for those busy weeknights when you need a quick and easy meal. Enjoy this burst of Mediterranean sunshine anytime you need a simple yet satisfying dish! It's a guaranteed crowd-pleaser for both homemade cooking enthusiasts and those new to the kitchen. This easy recipe is a true testament to the power of simple ingredients creating a truly delicious and memorable dish.