Indulge in a colorful and refreshing salad that combines the best of Mediterranean cuisine. This Mediterranean Bliss Salad is a perfect blend of crunchy vegetables, creamy feta cheese, and savory olives, all tied together with a zesty and herbaceous lemon-tahini dressing.
Salad Ingredients:
1. 4-6 cups mixed greens (arugula, spinach, lettuce)
2. 1 cup cooked chickpeas
3. 1 cup diced cucumber
4. 1 cup diced bell peppers (any color)
5. 1 cup diced red onion
6. 1 cup crumbled feta cheese
7. 1/2 cup pitted and sliced Kalamata olives
8. 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
9. 2 tbsp. chopped fresh mint (optional)
Lemon-Tahini Dressing Ingredients:
1. 2 cloves garlic, minced
2. 2 tbsp. freshly squeezed lemon juice
3. 1 tbsp. tahini
4. 1/4 cup olive oil
5. Salt and pepper to taste
6. 1 tsp. dried oregano (optional)
Optional Ingredients:
1. 1/2 cup diced grilled chicken or salmon
2. 1/4 cup chopped artichoke hearts
3. 1/4 cup chopped sun-dried tomatoes
Method:
1. Prepare the Ingredients: Start by preparing the ingredients, including chopping the cucumbers, bell peppers, and red onions, and crumbing the feta cheese.
2. Cook the Chickpeas: Cook the chickpeas according to the package instructions and set them aside to cool.
3. Make the Lemon-Tahini Dressing: In a blender or food processor, combine the lemon juice, tahini, garlic, and olive oil, and blend until smooth and creamy.
4. Assemble the Salad: In a large bowl, combine the chopped cucumbers, bell peppers, and red onions, cooked chickpeas, crumbled feta cheese, and pitted and sliced olives.
5. Dress the Salad: Pour the lemon-tahini dressing over the salad and toss to combine.
6. Serve and Enjoy: Serve the Mediterranean Bliss Salad immediately, garnished with fresh parsley and a sprinkle of sumac.
Feel free to customize the ingredients to your liking and dietary preferences!
Optional:
– Add diced grilled chicken or salmon for extra protein.
– Mix in chopped artichoke hearts or sun-dried tomatoes for added flavor and texture.
Tips and Variations:
– Use different types of cheese, such as goat cheese or ricotta, for a unique flavor.
– Add some heat with red pepper flakes or sliced jalapeños.
– Swap out the mixed greens for spinach or kale for a nutritional boost.
Benefits
1. Easy to Make: Perfect for busy weeknights or last-minute meal plans.
2. Nutritious and Wholesome: A healthy and delicious meal option that’s packed with protein, healthy fats, and complex carbohydrates.
3. Customizable: Experiment with different ingredients and flavors to make the recipe your own.