Cool, crisp, and bursting with Mediterranean-inspired flavors — this salad is your go-to for warm days!
📋 Recipe Card
Servings & Timing
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Total Time: 10 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Author: Judy Wilson
- Diet: Vegetarian
🛒 Ingredients
- 2 cups mixed greens
- 1 cucumber, sliced
- 1 tomato, diced
- ½ red onion, thinly sliced
- ¼ cup olives
- ¼ cup feta cheese, crumbled
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tbsp lemon juice
- Salt & pepper, to taste
👩🍳 Instructions
- Wash and dry mixed greens.
- Slice cucumber and dice tomato.
- Thinly slice red onion.
- Combine all vegetables in a large bowl.
- Add olives and crumbled feta.
- Drizzle with olive oil and lemon juice.
- Season with salt and pepper.
- Toss gently and serve chilled.
🌟 Notes & Tips
- Best eaten fresh, but keeps in the fridge for up to 2 days.
- Add avocado for creaminess.
- Swap feta with goat cheese for a tangier bite.
- For extra crunch, sprinkle toasted sunflower seeds or walnuts on top.
🌴 Introduction
This Ensalada Fría is the ultimate warm-weather salad — light, refreshing, and ready in just 10 minutes. Juicy tomatoes, crisp cucumber, tangy feta, and briny olives come together in a simple lemon-olive oil dressing. It’s quick enough for a weekday lunch yet elegant enough for summer entertaining.
🥒 Ingredient Details & Substitutions
- Mixed Greens: Use a spring mix, romaine, or spinach.
- Cucumber: English cucumbers are less watery, but regular work too.
- Olives: Black, kalamata, or green — whichever you prefer.
- Cheese: Goat cheese, queso fresco, or vegan feta are great alternatives.
🍽 Variations & Serving Ideas
- Mediterranean Twist: Add chickpeas for protein.
- Fruit Upgrade: Toss in orange slices or strawberries for a sweet touch.
- Meal Prep Friendly: Serve with pita bread and hummus for a light lunch.
- Party-Style: Serve in small cups or lettuce wraps as a summer appetizer.
🥡 Storage & Make Ahead
- Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days.
- Keep dressing separate if prepping ahead to avoid soggy greens.
❓ FAQs
Q: Can I make this salad vegan?
Yes — just omit the cheese or use a vegan alternative.
Q: Can I use bottled dressing instead?
Of course! But fresh lemon juice + olive oil keeps it bright and healthy.
Q: What protein pairs well?
Grilled chicken, shrimp, or tofu make it a full meal.
