This deliciously healthy salad is perfect for anyone looking for a quick and nutritious meal option. Packed with fresh vegetables, creamy avocado, tangy feta cheese, and a vibrant dressing, it’s so delightful that you’ll want to make it a part of your daily meal rotation. This salad is not only easy to prepare but also versatile enough to serve as a standalone dish or a complement to any main course.
Ingredients
- 1/2 head of lettuce, rinsed and chopped
- 200 g cherry tomatoes, halved
- 2 large cucumbers, peeled and diced
- 1/2 red bell pepper, seeded and sliced
- 1/2 red onion, thinly sliced
- 1 avocado, pitted, peeled, and cubed
- 80 g feta cheese, crumbled
- 50 g black olives, pitted
- Juice from 1/2 lemon
- 4 tablespoons olive oil
- 1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
- 1/3 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
Instructions
- Prepare the Vegetables:
- Thoroughly wash and prepare the lettuce, cherry tomatoes, cucumbers, red bell pepper, and red onion as described.
- Combine the Salad Base:
- In a large salad bowl, mix together the chopped lettuce, halved cherry tomatoes, diced cucumbers, sliced red pepper, and thinly sliced red onion.
- Add Creaminess and Texture:
- Fold in the cubed avocado, crumbled feta cheese, and black olives to the salad mixture, blending gently to maintain the integrity of the avocado.
- Dress the Salad:
- In a small bowl, whisk together the lemon juice, olive oil, black pepper, salt, and dried oregano to create a flavorful dressing.
- Toss Everything Together:
- Drizzle the dressing over the salad and toss well to ensure all ingredients are evenly coated with the dressing.
- Serve Fresh:
- Serve the salad immediately to enjoy its crispness or chill it in the refrigerator for about 15 minutes if you prefer the flavors to meld together slightly.
Serving Suggestions
- As a Main Dish: Perfect for a light lunch or a quick dinner.
- With Protein: Pair with grilled chicken, salmon, or tofu for added protein.
- Picnics and Gatherings: Ideal for picnics and social gatherings as it’s colorful and can be made in large quantities easily.
Nutritional Highlights
- Low in Calories: Made primarily from vegetables, this salad is low in calories but high in nutrients.
- Rich in Vitamins: Avocado and bell pepper provide a good dose of Vitamin C and healthy fats, while lettuce and cucumbers offer hydration and fiber.
- Good Source of Healthy Fats: Olive oil and avocado contribute monounsaturated fats, which are beneficial for heart health.
Additional Tips
- Customization: Feel free to add or substitute ingredients based on availability and preference. Spinach or arugula can replace lettuce for a different flavor and texture.
- Herb Variations: Swap oregano with basil or thyme for a different herby note in the dressing.
- Storage: Best enjoyed fresh, but if needed, store in the fridge for up to a day. Keep the dressing separate if preparing ahead to avoid soggy leaves.
Enjoy this vibrant, healthy, and quick salad that is as delicious as it is easy to prepare, making it the perfect everyday choice for a nutritious meal!
