Tired of the same old dinner routine? Craving a healthy, flavorful, and incredibly easy meal? Then look no further! This vibrant salad with olives recipe is your answer. It's a fantastic option for a quick weeknight dinner, a light lunch, or a refreshing side dish. Bursting with Mediterranean flavors and textures, this simple salad is sure to become a staple in your homemade cooking repertoire. Prepare to be amazed by how delicious and satisfying a healthy meal can be!
Ingredients:
This recipe is easily scalable to suit your needs, whether you're feeding a family or just yourself.
- 1 cup Kalamata olives, pitted and halved (or your favorite olives!)
- 1 cucumber, thinly sliced
- 1 red bell pepper, thinly sliced
- 1/2 red onion, thinly sliced
- 1 (15 ounce) can chickpeas, rinsed and drained
- 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese (optional, but highly recommended!)
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 tablespoons red wine vinegar
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
Instructions:
This easy recipe is perfect for beginners, but experienced cooks will appreciate its fresh, customizable nature.
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Prep the vegetables: Begin by washing and prepping all your vegetables. Thinly slice the cucumber, red bell pepper, and red onion. This ensures even cooking and a pleasant texture.
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Combine ingredients: In a large bowl, gently combine the sliced cucumber, bell pepper, red onion, chickpeas, olives, and feta cheese (if using).
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Make the dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, red wine vinegar, oregano, salt, and pepper. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed. A little extra salt or pepper can really elevate the flavors.
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Dress the salad: Pour the dressing over the salad and toss gently to coat all the ingredients evenly. Be careful not to overmix, as you want to preserve the texture of the vegetables.
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Garnish and serve: Sprinkle the chopped fresh parsley over the salad. Serve immediately or chill for later. This salad tastes great both at room temperature and chilled.
Tips for the Best Salad with Olives:
- Olive variety: Feel free to experiment with different types of olives! Castelvetrano, Cerignola, or even a mix of green and black olives would work beautifully.
- Add protein: For a heartier salad, add grilled chicken, fish, or shrimp. This makes it a complete and satisfying meal.
- Customize your veggies: Don't be afraid to add other vegetables you enjoy, such as tomatoes, artichoke hearts, or even some spinach or romaine lettuce.
- Make it ahead: This salad is great for meal prepping! You can prepare the vegetables and dressing ahead of time and combine them just before serving.
Variations:
- Lemon-Herb Dressing: Substitute lemon juice for the red wine vinegar and add a tablespoon of fresh dill or thyme to the dressing for a brighter, herbaceous flavor.
- Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the dressing for a little heat.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
This healthy meal is packed with nutrients! The exact nutritional values will vary depending on the specific ingredients and quantities used. However, a typical serving provides a good source of fiber, protein, and healthy fats. This makes it a nutritious and satisfying option for your daily diet. Consider using a nutrition calculator for a more precise analysis based on your specific ingredients.
This salad with olives is more than just a recipe; it's a celebration of fresh ingredients and simple flavors. Enjoy!