Fresh and Flavorful Chopped Salad. Healthy Mediterranean Salad
If you're looking for a light yet satisfying meal that's packed with fresh flavors and textures, this Chopped Salad is the perfect choice. It's a combination of crisp vegetables, creamy avocado, savory cheese, and a tangy homemade dressing that brings everything together. Whether you're enjoying it as a main course or a side dish, this salad is versatile, nutritious, and ideal for anyone who wants to eat healthy without sacrificing taste. Plus, it’s easy to customize based on your preferences, so feel free to get creative!
Ingredients
- 2 cups of chopped romaine lettuce
- 1 cup of cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 cucumber, diced
- 1/2 red onion, finely chopped
- 1 avocado, diced
- 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese (optional)
- 1/4 cup Kalamata olives, pitted and halved
- 1/4 cup chickpeas (optional)
- 1/4 cup extra-virgin olive oil
- 2 tbsp red wine vinegar
- 1 tsp Dijon mustard
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh herbs like parsley or basil for garnish (optional)
Directions
Start by preparing the dressing. In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, red wine vinegar, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper until the mixture is well combined and slightly thickened. Set aside.
In a large mixing bowl, combine the chopped romaine lettuce, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, red onion, avocado, feta cheese, olives, and chickpeas.
Drizzle the dressing over the salad, tossing gently to ensure all ingredients are evenly coated.
Taste and adjust seasoning if necessary—add more salt, pepper, or even a splash of vinegar depending on your preference.
Garnish with fresh herbs and serve immediately.
Recipe tips
For added crunch, throw in some toasted nuts or seeds like almonds or sunflower seeds. You can easily make this a heartier meal by adding grilled chicken, shrimp, or tofu on top. If you like a bit of sweetness, consider tossing in some dried cranberries or apple slices. For a creamier texture, swap out the red wine vinegar with balsamic vinegar or add a spoonful of Greek yogurt to the dressing. The salad tastes best when served immediately, but you can prep the ingredients ahead of time and store them separately in the fridge.
Nutrition Facts (per serving)
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