This vibrant Mediterranean Chopped Salad is a perfect blend of fresh and crisp vegetables, hearty chickpeas, and tangy feta cheese, all tied together with a bright and zesty lemon-oregano dressing. It’s a refreshing and healthy option that’s loaded with flavor and crunch. Perfect as a light lunch, a side dish for grilled meats, or even as a stand-alone dinner salad, this dish brings the best of Mediterranean flavors into one bowl. The combination of juicy tomatoes, crisp cucumbers, salty Kalamata olives, and creamy feta makes every bite a delight. It’s a versatile salad that can be customized with grilled chicken or shrimp for a protein boost.
Ingredients:
- Salad:
- 2 cups chopped Romaine lettuce
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 large cucumber, diced
- 1 red bell pepper, diced
- 1 small red onion, thinly sliced
- 1 cup canned chickpeas, rinsed and drained
- 1/2 cup Kalamata olives, pitted and sliced
- 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
- Dressing:
- 1/4 cup extra-virgin olive oil
- 3 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
- 1 tablespoon red wine vinegar
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
- Prepare the Salad: In a large salad bowl, combine the chopped Romaine lettuce, halved cherry tomatoes, diced cucumber, diced red bell pepper, thinly sliced red onion, chickpeas, olives, and parsley. Toss gently to combine.
- Make the Dressing: In a small bowl or a jar with a lid, whisk together the olive oil, lemon juice, red wine vinegar, minced garlic, and dried oregano. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Assemble the Salad: Drizzle the dressing over the salad and toss until the vegetables are evenly coated.
- Add the Feta: Sprinkle the crumbled feta cheese over the top of the salad. Give it a final gentle toss, if desired.
- Serve: Serve immediately as a side dish or enjoy it on its own as a refreshing and light meal.
This Mediterranean Chopped Salad is best enjoyed fresh but can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 2 days, with the dressing added just before serving to keep the veggies crisp.