Craving that fresh, vibrant taste of a Panera Bread Greek Salad but don't want to leave the house? This recipe lets you recreate the magic in your own kitchen! It's a delicious and healthy meal, perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a light lunch. Get ready to enjoy a homemade version of this classic, bursting with flavor and freshness. This easy recipe is perfect for beginners and seasoned cooks alike, promising a restaurant-quality experience in the comfort of your home.
Ingredients: A Symphony of Freshness
This recipe serves 4-6 people. Adjust quantities as needed.
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For the Salad:
- 5 oz Kalamata olives, pitted and halved
- 1 (14.5 oz) can artichoke hearts, drained and quartered
- 1 pint cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 cucumber, peeled, seeded, and diced
- 1 red bell pepper, cored, seeded, and diced
- 1 red onion, thinly sliced
- 8 oz crumbled feta cheese
- 1 lb romaine lettuce, chopped (or a mix of greens)
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For the Dressing:
- 1/2 cup extra virgin olive oil
- 1/4 cup red wine vinegar
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice
- 1 tablespoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions: A Step-by-Step Guide to Greek Salad Perfection
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Prepare the Vegetables: Wash and chop all the vegetables according to the ingredient list. This is a great task to get the whole family involved in!
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Whisk the Dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, red wine vinegar, lemon juice, oregano, basil, garlic, salt, and pepper until well combined. Taste and adjust seasonings as needed. You can make the dressing ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator.
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Assemble the Salad: In a large bowl, combine the chopped romaine lettuce, Kalamata olives, artichoke hearts, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, red bell pepper, and red onion.
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Add the Feta: Gently toss in the crumbled feta cheese.
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Dress and Serve: Drizzle the dressing over the salad and toss gently to coat everything evenly. Serve immediately or chill for later – it’s delicious either way!
Tips and Variations: Elevate Your Greek Salad Experience
- Homemade Croutons: For added crunch, add some homemade croutons. Simply cube some bread, toss with olive oil, herbs, and spices, and bake until golden brown.
- Protein Boost: Add grilled chicken, shrimp, or chickpeas for a more substantial meal. These additions transform this salad into a complete and satisfying dinner.
- Herb Variations: Experiment with different herbs like fresh oregano, dill, or parsley.
- Cheese Alternatives: If you're not a feta fan, try goat cheese or halloumi.
- Make it Ahead: Prepare the vegetables and dressing ahead of time, then assemble the salad just before serving to prevent the lettuce from wilting.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
This information is an estimate and may vary based on specific ingredients used.
- Calories: Approximately 350-400
- Fat: 25-30g
- Protein: 8-10g
- Carbohydrates: 15-20g
- Fiber: 5-7g
This Panera Greek Salad recipe is a quick and healthy dinner idea that's perfect for busy weeknights. The vibrant flavors and fresh ingredients make it a delicious and satisfying meal that the whole family will love. Enjoy your homemade version of this restaurant favorite!