Mediterranean Feta Salad Recipe – Olive Oil & Herb Dressing

Last Updated on 2 months by Neha Deshmukh

Mediterranean Feta Salad Recipe – Olive Oil & Herb Dressing

Hey everyone! If you’re anything like me, sometimes you just crave something fresh, light, and bursting with flavour. This Mediterranean Feta Salad is exactly that. It’s become a regular in my kitchen, especially during warmer months, and I’m so excited to share it with you. It’s ridiculously easy to throw together, and honestly, it feels like a little slice of sunshine in a bowl.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This salad is a winner for so many reasons! It’s quick – seriously, ready in under 5 minutes. It’s healthy, packed with fresh veggies and good fats. And the flavour combination? Oh my goodness. The salty feta, sweet tomatoes, and fragrant herbs, all tossed in a simple olive oil dressing… it’s just chef’s kiss. Plus, it’s super versatile – perfect as a light lunch, a side dish for grilled chicken or fish, or even a potluck contribution.

Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make this vibrant salad:

• 1 small iceberg lettuce
• 3/4 cup black olives
• 15-20 cherry tomatoes
• 200 gm feta cheese
• 3 tbsp olive oil
• 1 tbsp oregano
• 1 tbsp dried parsley
• Salt and pepper to taste

Ingredient Notes

Let’s talk ingredients for a sec, because quality really shines here!

• Feta Cheese: This is where you want to splurge a little if you can. A good quality feta, preferably from Greece, will have a creamy, slightly tangy flavour that makes all the difference. I prefer a block of feta packed in brine – it stays fresher for longer!
• Olive Oil: Extra virgin olive oil is the way to go. It has a richer flavour and more health benefits. Don’t be afraid to use a really good one here; you’ll taste it!
• Herbs: While dried parsley and oregano work beautifully, if you have fresh on hand, even better! Just use about a tablespoon of chopped fresh herbs for every teaspoon of dried. I sometimes add a little fresh mint too – it’s lovely.

Step-By-Step Instructions

Alright, let’s get cooking! It’s more like assembling, really.

1. First, grab a large bowl. Roughly chop or tear the iceberg lettuce and add it to the bowl. I like to tear it – it just feels more rustic, you know?
2. Next, add the black olives and halved cherry tomatoes. Aren’t cherry tomatoes just the cutest?
3. Now for the star of the show: crumble the feta cheese over the lettuce and tomatoes. You can use your fingers, a fork, or even a cheese grater for a finer crumble – whatever you prefer!
4. In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, oregano, dried parsley, salt, and pepper. Give it a good whisk until everything is nicely combined.
5. Pour the dressing over the salad and gently toss everything together. Be careful not to over-dress it – you want everything lightly coated, not swimming in oil.
6. Serve immediately and enjoy!

Expert Tips

Here are a few little things I’ve learned over the years:

• Make sure your lettuce is completely dry before adding the dressing. Wet lettuce will make the salad soggy.
• Don’t add the salt until after you’ve tasted the salad. Feta is already quite salty, so you might not need much.
• For extra flavour, let the salad sit for about 5-10 minutes before serving to allow the flavours to meld.

Variations

Want to switch things up? Here are a few ideas:

• Vegan Adaptation: Swap the feta for a vegan feta alternative. There are some really good ones available now made from tofu or almonds!
• Herb Variations: Feel free to experiment with different herbs. Dill, basil, or even a little thyme would be delicious. My friend loves adding a pinch of rosemary.
• Spice Level: If you like a little heat, add a pinch of red chili flakes to the dressing. My family loves a little kick!

Serving Suggestions

This salad is incredibly versatile. Here are a few ways to enjoy it:

• As a light lunch on its own.
• As a side dish with grilled chicken, fish, or lamb.
• Served with pita bread for dipping.
• Alongside a hearty Greek stew.

Storage Instructions

This salad is best served immediately, as the lettuce will wilt over time. However, if you have leftovers, you can store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a day. The lettuce won’t be as crisp, but it will still taste good. I recommend storing the dressing separately and adding it just before serving.

FAQs

Let’s answer some common questions:

• Is this salad best served immediately? Yes, absolutely! The lettuce stays crispiest when served right away.
• Can I use a different type of lettuce? Of course! Romaine lettuce or butter lettuce would also work well.
• What’s the best way to crumble feta cheese? Use your fingers, a fork, or a cheese grater – whatever is easiest for you!
• Can I make the dressing ahead of time? Yes, you can! Store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Can I add protein to this salad? Definitely! Grilled chicken, chickpeas, or even some canned tuna would be great additions.

I really hope you enjoy this Mediterranean Feta Salad as much as I do. It’s a simple, flavourful, and healthy recipe that’s perfect for any occasion. Let me know what you think in the comments below! Happy cooking!