Craving a salad that bursts with fresh flavors and textures? This Mediterranean chopped salad is just the thing for you. Packed with chopped cucumbers, juicy tomatoes, briny olives, and creamy feta cheese, it’s a refreshing treat that can be enjoyed as a light meal or a vibrant side dish. With grilled chicken on top, it’s not just nutritious; it’s downright delicious.
Imagine sitting outside on a sunny day, enjoying a meal that not only looks stunning but tastes incredible. This salad is the answer to your lunch or dinner dilemmas, offering a low-carb option that will satisfy your hunger and keep you feeling light. The combination of olive oil and lemon juice dressing will have your taste buds dancing.
Fresh and Flavorful Mediterranean Chopped Salad
This Mediterranean chopped salad presents a delightful combination of crisp vegetables, juicy tomatoes, and savory grilled chicken.
Each ingredient contributes to a refreshing taste experience, where the crunch of cucumbers meets the saltiness of black olives and the creaminess of feta cheese.
Perfect for enjoying during warm gatherings or as a satisfying meal prep option, this salad guarantees a revitalizing bite with every forkful.
The vibrant colors of the vegetables not only enhance the visual appeal but also promise a variety of nutrients.
Ingredients That Shine
The foundation of this salad lies in its fresh ingredients.
Chopped romaine lettuce provides a crisp base, while diced tomatoes and cucumbers add a burst of hydration and flavor.
The briny black olives introduce a contrasting taste, complemented beautifully by crumbled feta cheese, which brings creaminess and richness to the mix.
Every component plays a role, with grilled chicken breast adding protein and heartiness, making this dish suitable as a main or side.
A sprinkle of fresh parsley can elevate the presentation and add a touch of earthiness.
Simple Preparation Steps
Creating this Mediterranean delight is straightforward.
Begin by combining all the vegetables in a large bowl, ensuring even distribution for optimal flavor in each bite.
The next step involves grilling the chicken, seasoned simply with salt and pepper, until perfectly cooked and juicy.
The dressing, a mixture of olive oil and lemon juice, is whisked together with a dash of seasoning, allowing the freshness to shine through.
Toss everything together for a harmonious blend of flavors that encapsulate the Mediterranean spirit.
Health Benefits of Your Salad
This salad is not only a feast for the eyes but also a nutritious option.
With a balance of protein, healthy fats, and fiber-rich vegetables, it supports an active lifestyle while keeping calorie counts reasonable.
The inclusion of olive oil provides heart-healthy fats, and the fresh vegetables contribute essential vitamins and minerals.
Each serving is a smart choice for anyone aiming to maintain a healthy diet without sacrificing taste.
This salad can easily fit within low-carb meal plans, making it a versatile dish for various dietary needs.
Serving Suggestions and Variations
This Mediterranean chopped salad shines on its own, but it can also be paired with various accompaniments.
Consider serving it alongside grilled pita bread, tzatziki sauce, or a light soup to create a more substantial meal.
For added variety, feel free to swap in different proteins, such as shrimp or chickpeas, catering to preferences and dietary restrictions.
Customization doesn’t stop there; additional ingredients like roasted red peppers or artichokes can introduce new textures and flavors, enhancing the overall experience.
Experimentation is encouraged to make this salad your own!
Enjoying the Mediterranean Experience
Picture enjoying this vibrant salad on a sunny day, perhaps at a picnic or a patio gathering.
The colorful presentation and fresh taste evoke the essence of Mediterranean dining, fostering a sense of warmth and togetherness.
Whether it’s for a casual lunch or a festive dinner, this salad is sure to be a crowd-pleaser, inviting compliments and second servings.
Furthermore, it embodies the spirit of summer with its light yet satisfying qualities, making it a go-to recipe for warm-weather meals.
Serve it in a rustic bowl, and let the bright colors and fresh aromas do the talking!
Fresh and Flavorful Mediterranean Chopped Salad
This Mediterranean chopped salad offers a delightful mix of crisp vegetables and savory grilled chicken. Each bite is a balance of freshness, saltiness, and the zing from the lemon dressing. Perfect for meal prep or a quick dinner, it’s a salad that will leave you feeling refreshed and satisfied.
Ingredients
- 2 cups chopped romaine lettuce
- 1 cup chopped cucumbers
- 1 cup diced tomatoes
- 1/2 cup pitted olives, sliced
- 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese
- 1 grilled chicken breast, sliced
- 1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Prepare the Vegetables: In a large bowl, combine the chopped romaine lettuce, cucumbers, tomatoes, olives, red onion, and feta cheese.
- Grill the Chicken: Season the chicken breast with salt and pepper, then grill until cooked through and juices run clear. Slice it into strips.
- Make the Dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil and lemon juice. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Assemble the Salad: Add the sliced grilled chicken on top of the vegetable mixture. Drizzle with the olive oil and lemon dressing.
- Garnish and Serve: Toss gently to combine and garnish with fresh parsley if desired. Serve immediately.
Cook and Prep Times
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
Nutrition Information
- Servings: 2 servings
- Calories: 350kcal
- Fat: 22g
- Protein: 30g
- Carbohydrates: 10g