Salad with Feta Recipe
If you’re in the mood for something vibrant, zesty, and utterly refreshing, this Salad with Feta is sure to hit the spot. Packed with crisp greens, juicy cherry tomatoes, briny olives, creamy crumbled feta, and a herby vinaigrette, this dish instantly elevates any meal. Whether you serve it as a breezy lunch, a colorful starter, or a side that steals the show at your next gathering, one bite is all it takes to understand why it’s a classic. Trust me, you’ll want to keep this recipe close at hand for those days when only something fresh and flavorful will do.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of this Salad with Feta is how simple but harmonious the ingredients are. Each one brings its own personality to the bowl—crunch, tang, creaminess, or a splash of color—making every forkful exciting and delicious.
- Mixed salad greens: Choose a medley for a variety of flavors and textures—think romaine, arugula, or baby spinach for extra vibrancy.
- Cherry tomatoes, halved: Their juicy burst and natural sweetness balance out the saltiness of the cheese and olives.
- Cucumber, sliced and quartered: Adds a refreshing, crisp crunch that feels so satisfying in every bite.
- Red onion, thinly sliced: Just enough sharpness and bite to lift the whole salad—if you find it strong, soak in cold water for 5 minutes first.
- Crumbled feta cheese: The star ingredient brings creamy tang and just enough saltiness to tie it all together.
- Pitted Kalamata olives, halved: These little gems add depth, a touch of brine, and a gorgeous pop of dark color.
- Fresh parsley, chopped: A bright, herbal note that livens up every mouthful—feel free to swap in mint for a cool twist.
- Extra virgin olive oil: Go for the good stuff for a luscious, fruity dressing base.
- Red wine vinegar: Its zingy kick brings the dressing to life and makes all the flavors sing.
- Dijon mustard: Helps emulsify the dressing and lends subtle warmth and complexity.
- Dried oregano: Adds a Mediterranean flair that pairs especially well with feta and olives.
- Salt and black pepper to taste: Season just before serving to brighten up all the fresh ingredients without overpowering.
How to Make Salad with Feta
Step 1: Combine the Salad Base
Start by grabbing your largest salad bowl—there’s something delightful about tossing everything together in a roomy space. Add the mixed salad greens, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, red onion, feta cheese, Kalamata olives, and parsley. Don’t worry too much about the order; just layer them up for a feast of color and freshness. This is the moment when your kitchen starts to smell like summer in the Mediterranean.
Step 2: Whisk the Dressing
In a small bowl or a jar with a tight-fitting lid, whisk (or shake) together the extra virgin olive oil, red wine vinegar, Dijon mustard, dried oregano, salt, and black pepper. The mustard is your secret weapon—it helps the oil and vinegar become silky smooth, while the oregano releases a perfume that practically begs you to take a taste. Make sure your dressing is well combined and tastes bright yet balanced. If you like it a bit zestier, add a splash more vinegar.
Step 3: Dress and Toss
Pour your vibrant dressing all over the salad ingredients. Now, using salad tongs or impeccably clean hands, toss gently—but thoroughly. The goal is to coat every leaf and morsel without bruising the greens. Watch as the cheese picks up flecks of herbs and the tomatoes glisten. This moment might be where you catch yourself sneaking a bite right out of the bowl—no judgment here!
Step 4: Serve Immediately
Transfer your Salad with Feta onto a large platter or individual plates if you’re feeling fancy. This salad is at its most irresistible when served right away, with the greens crisp and the flavors fresh. If you’d like, you can add a little more crumbled feta or a sprinkle of parsley right on top to dazzle your guests (or yourself!).
How to Serve Salad with Feta
Garnishes
A sprinkle of extra crumbled feta, some additional chopped fresh herbs like mint or dill, or a grind of black pepper on the top will take your Salad with Feta from great to unforgettable. Even a few shavings of lemon zest can add a zippy aroma that everyone will notice.
Side Dishes
This salad pairs beautifully alongside grilled chicken, roasted fish, or even a simple soup. For a heartier affair, serve it with warm pita bread or crispy falafel. If you’re inviting friends, try including a mezze platter brimming with hummus, dolmas, and spiced nuts—it’s the Mediterranean way!
Creative Ways to Present
Serve your Salad with Feta layered in a wide glass bowl for a showstopping centerpiece, or arrange it in individual mason jars for a portable picnic treat. For a dinner party, consider plating it on chilled salad plates and garnishing with edible flowers or lightly toasted seeds for an elegant touch.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have leftovers, transfer the Salad with Feta to an airtight container and refrigerate. The greens will stay fairly crisp for a day, especially if you store the dressing separately; just give everything a gentle toss before serving again.
Freezing
Unfortunately, this salad doesn’t freeze well—fresh veggies and greens lose their signature texture after thawing. It’s best enjoyed within a day or two. If you anticipate needing less, halve the recipe for perfectly sized portions.
Reheating
No need to reheat! Salad with Feta is meant to be enjoyed chilled or at room temperature. If your salad has been in the fridge, let it sit out for a few minutes to take off the chill and wake up those wonderful flavors.
FAQs
Can I use a different cheese instead of feta?
Absolutely! While feta is traditional, goat cheese, queso fresco, or a mild blue cheese can work beautifully. Each will bring a unique twist to your Salad with Feta, so don’t be afraid to experiment.
What kind of greens are best for this salad?
A mix of peppery arugula, hearty spinach, and tender romaine gives you a fantastic base. You can use any combination you love—just aim for greens that are fresh and crisp for the best possible texture.
Can I add protein to make this salad a main course?
Definitely! Try tossing in grilled chicken, shrimp, or chickpeas to add substance and protein to your Salad with Feta. Roasted tofu or even a soft-boiled egg would also be delicious options.
How should I adjust the seasoning if my feta is particularly salty?
If your feta is on the saltier side, ease up on the added salt in the dressing and taste everything as you go. You want the cheese to accentuate rather than overpower the salad’s fresh flavors.
Is there a way to make Salad with Feta vegan?
Yes! Just swap in a plant-based feta (many supermarkets carry them now) or try crumbled tofu seasoned with lemon, olive oil, and a pinch of salt as a substitute. The salad will still be fresh and tangy.
Final Thoughts
If you’re craving something light, colorful, and bursting with Mediterranean flavors, this Salad with Feta is an absolute must-try. It’s simple, speedy, and so satisfying. I can’t wait for you to make it, share it, and love it as much as I do—here’s to many salads ahead!
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Salad with Feta Recipe
- Total Time: 10 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian, Gluten-Free
Description
This Salad with Feta is a refreshing and flavorful dish that combines mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, cucumbers, feta cheese, olives, and a zesty dressing. Perfect as a light main course or a side dish.
Ingredients
Mixed Greens:
- 6 cups mixed salad greens
Vegetables:
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1/2 cup cucumber, sliced and quartered
- 1/4 cup thinly sliced red onion
Additional Toppings:
- 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese
- 1/4 cup pitted Kalamata olives, halved
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
Dressing:
- 3 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
- 1 tablespoon red wine vinegar
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
- Salt and black pepper to taste
Instructions
- Prepare the Salad: In a large bowl, combine mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, red onion, feta cheese, olives, and parsley.
- Make the Dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, red wine vinegar, Dijon mustard, oregano, salt, and pepper.
- Toss and Serve: Pour the dressing over the salad and toss gently to coat. Serve immediately.
Notes
- Add grilled chicken or chickpeas for extra protein.
- Try swapping parsley for fresh mint for a Mediterranean twist.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Category: Salad, Side Dish
- Method: No-Cook, Tossing
- Cuisine: Mediterranean
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 2 cups
- Calories: 180
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 320mg
- Fat: 14g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 8g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 5g
- Cholesterol: 20mg
