Mediterranean Salad Recipe

Prepare lettuce

Wash the romaine lettuce (or mixed greens) thoroughly under cold water. Spin or pat dry with paper towels until crisp. Chop or tear into bite-sized pieces and place into a large salad bowl (about 10–12 cup capacity).

Prep tomatoes

If using cherry tomatoes, halve them. If using larger tomatoes, core and chop into roughly 1-inch pieces. Add tomatoes to the bowl with the lettuce.

Slice cucumber

Peel the cucumber if desired, halve lengthwise and slice into 1/4-inch half-moons. Add cucumber slices to the bowl.

Slice red onion

Peel and cut the red onion in half. Thinly slice one half into half-moon slices (about 1/8-inch thick). If the onion is strong, soak the slices in cold water for 5 minutes, then drain and pat dry. Add to the bowl.

Add olives and herbs

Add the pitted Kalamata olives to the salad. Sprinkle in the chopped fresh parsley and optional chopped mint. Toss gently to combine the vegetables and herbs.

Add feta

Crumble the feta cheese with your fingers or a fork and sprinkle over the salad, reserving a small amount to garnish if desired.

In a small bowl or jar combine the olive oil, fresh lemon juice, red wine vinegar, Dijon mustard, minced garlic, dried oregano, honey (if using), salt, and black pepper.

Whisk vigorously for 20–30 seconds or shake in a lidded jar until the dressing emulsifies and becomes slightly thickened. Taste and adjust seasoning — add a pinch more salt, a squeeze more lemon, or a touch more honey if needed.

Just before serving, drizzle about half to two-thirds of the dressing over the salad (start with less to avoid overdressing). Toss gently but thoroughly to coat all ingredients. Add additional dressing as desired, then taste and adjust seasoning with extra salt or pepper if needed.

Transfer the salad to a serving bowl or plates. Sprinkle remaining crumbled feta on top and garnish with a few whole olives and a small sprig of parsley or mint if desired.

Serve immediately. Leftover dressing can be refrigerated for up to 5 days and shaken before use.