Mediterranean salad

Mediterranean Salad with a Summer Flavor

Preparation time: 15 minutes
Total time: 15 minutes
Servings: 4

In the summer heat, a Mediterranean salad is the perfect choice for a light and flavorful meal. This dish is not only simple and quick to make, but it also brings a splash of freshness in every bite. Here’s how you can prepare this delicious salad.

Ingredients:
- 200 g green lettuce (or romaine)
- 150 g cherry tomatoes (or one large tomato, sliced)
- 100 g canned or fresh artichoke, quartered
- 100 g green or black olives, pitted
- 100 g feta cheese (optional, for extra creaminess)
- 1 medium cucumber, diced
- 1 red bell pepper, sliced
- 3 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
- 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar (or lemon juice)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Dried oregano (or fresh, for a more intense flavor)

Instructions:

1. Preparing the ingredients: Start by washing the green lettuce well under cold running water to remove any impurities. You can also use a salad spinner to efficiently dry it. It’s important that the lettuce is dry so it doesn’t dilute the dressing.

2. Cutting the vegetables: Cut the cherry tomatoes in half or, if using a large tomato, slice it evenly. Prepare the artichoke, olives, and the rest of the vegetables: diced cucumber and sliced bell pepper. These vegetables not only add texture but also a vibrant mix of colors.

3. Assembling the salad: On a large plate or in a salad bowl, lay the green lettuce leaves as a base. On top, carefully add the artichoke quarters, tomatoes, olives, cucumber, and bell pepper. If desired, you can also add crumbled feta cheese for extra creaminess.

4. Preparing the dressing: In a small bowl, mix the olive oil, balsamic vinegar, salt, pepper, and oregano. This simple dressing will perfectly complement the salad, bringing an authentic Mediterranean taste.

5. Finalizing the dish: Pour the dressing over the salad just before serving, to keep the veggies crunchy. Gently toss to combine the ingredients, taking care not to crush the lettuce.

6. Serving: The Mediterranean salad is delicious served immediately, but you can let it sit for a few minutes for the flavors to meld. It’s perfect as a side dish or as a main course, accompanied by fresh bread or a glass of white wine.

Practical tips:
- You can vary the ingredients according to the season: add avocado for a creamy texture or fresh dill for added flavor.
- If you are vegetarian or vegan, omit the feta cheese or use a plant-based alternative.
- For an extra protein boost, you can add tuna or grilled chicken sliced.

This Mediterranean salad is not just a simple recipe, but also a healthy choice, full of vitamins and flavors. Enjoy every bite and savor the taste of summer on your plate!

 Ingredients: lettuce or salad leaves, a sliced tomato or cherry tomatoes, canned artichokes, a few black olives, capers (to taste), sheep cheese (feta), prosciutto (if available), lemon, olive oil, a spoon, a few basil leaves for garnish