Ah, summer! The sun is shining, the days are longer, and it’s the perfect time for light, refreshing meals. I absolutely love whipping up salads during these warm months, and this summer salad is one of my favorites! It’s packed with vibrant flavors and crunchy textures that just scream sunshine. Trust me, there’s nothing like a bowl of mixed greens topped with juicy cherry tomatoes and a drizzle of homemade dressing to make you feel good. Plus, it’s super easy to throw together, making it a go-to recipe for those hot days when you want something quick and delicious. So let’s dive into this delightful summer salad recipe and make your warm-weather meals a breeze!

Ingredients List

Alright, let’s gather everything we need for this refreshing summer salad! Here’s what you’ll need:

• 2 cups mixed greens: A lovely blend of your favorite greens like spinach, arugula, or romaine will work wonders!
• 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved: These sweet little gems add a burst of color and flavor.
• 1 cucumber, diced: Crisp and refreshing, diced cucumber brings a satisfying crunch.
• 1/2 cup red onion, thinly sliced: Just a bit of onion for that zesty kick—make sure they’re thin!
• 1/2 cup feta cheese, crumbled: This creamy cheese adds a delightful tang. You can use more or less, depending on your taste!
• 1/4 cup olives, pitted and sliced: Choose your favorite variety for an extra punch of flavor.
• 1/4 cup olive oil: A high-quality extra virgin olive oil will elevate your dressing!
• 2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar: This will balance out the richness of the olive oil beautifully.
• Salt and pepper to taste: Don’t forget to season to your liking!

Make sure you have everything prepped and ready to go because this salad comes together in a snap!

How to Prepare Instructions

Now that we have our ingredients ready, let’s get to the fun part! Making this summer salad is a breeze, and I’ll walk you through it step by step.

Step 1: Wash and Prepare the Greens

First things first, you’ll want to give those mixed greens a good wash. Rinse them under cold water to remove any dirt or grit, then dry them thoroughly. I usually use a salad spinner for this—it works like a charm! Fresh, dry greens are key to keeping that crisp texture, so don’t skip this step!

Step 2: Combine the Salad Ingredients

Once your greens are ready, grab a large bowl (the bigger, the better!). Toss in the mixed greens, halved cherry tomatoes, diced cucumber, thinly sliced red onion, crumbled feta cheese, and sliced olives. Give it all a gentle stir to mix everything together evenly. You want to make sure every bite has a little bit of everything—no one likes a salad that’s all greens and no goodies!

Step 3: Make the Dressing

Next, let’s whip up that delicious dressing! In a small bowl, combine the olive oil, balsamic vinegar, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Whisk it together until it’s well blended. The key here is to taste as you go—if you like it tangy, add a touch more vinegar, or if you prefer it richer, a splash more olive oil does the trick! Trust me, this dressing is a game-changer!

Step 4: Toss the Salad

Now for the fun part—drizzle your dressing over the salad. Take a pair of salad tongs or two forks and gently toss everything together. Be careful not to overmix; we want those greens to stay nice and intact, not wilted. Just a light toss will do to coat everything in that yummy dressing!

Step 5: Serve or Chill

And voilà! Your salad is ready to enjoy. You can serve it right away for a fresh crunch, or if you want the flavors to meld a bit more, pop it in the fridge for about 30 minutes. It’s totally up to you! I often find that chilling it brings out the flavors even more, so don’t hesitate to experiment!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick to prepare—perfect for busy summer days!
• Fresh flavors that burst in your mouth with every bite.
• Super versatile; you can easily add your favorite proteins or veggies.
• Light and refreshing, making it an ideal side for any meal.
• Great for meal prep—enjoy it throughout the week!

Tips for Success

To make sure your summer salad turns out perfectly every time, here are some handy tips I’ve picked up along the way:

• Use Fresh Ingredients: The star of this salad is definitely the fresh produce! Try to pick the ripest cherry tomatoes and the crunchiest cucumbers you can find. Fresh ingredients make all the difference in flavor and texture.
• Adjust the Dressing: Don’t be afraid to play around with the dressing! If you like it a bit tangier, add more balsamic vinegar. For a richer flavor, a little extra olive oil can go a long way. Taste as you go, and make it your own!
• Chill for Maximum Flavor: If you have the time, let your salad chill in the fridge for about 30 minutes before serving. This allows the flavors to meld beautifully, making each bite even more delicious.
• Mix It Up: Feel free to get creative! If you want to add grilled chicken or shrimp for some protein, go for it! You could also switch up the veggies based on what’s in season or what you have on hand.
• Store Leftovers Wisely: If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the fridge. Keep the dressing separate if you want to maintain the crispness of the greens for the next day!

Variations

One of the best things about this summer salad is how easy it is to customize! Here are some fun ideas to switch things up and make this recipe your own:

• Add Proteins: If you want to turn this salad into a hearty meal, consider adding grilled chicken, shrimp, or even chickpeas for a vegetarian option. Just toss them in with the other ingredients for a filling boost!
• Experiment with Vegetables: Don’t be shy about adding other veggies! Bell peppers, radishes, or even avocados can bring a whole new level of flavor and texture. Use whatever’s fresh and in season!
• Try Different Cheeses: While feta is fabulous, you could also use goat cheese for a creamier texture or mozzarella balls for a milder flavor. Each cheese brings its own unique charm to the salad!
• Switch Up the Dressing: Feel free to play around with the dressing! A squeeze of fresh lemon juice instead of balsamic vinegar can brighten things up, or a dash of honey can add a touch of sweetness. Just mix and match until you find your perfect flavor!
• Make it a Grain Salad: Want to make it even heartier? Add some cooked quinoa or farro to the mix. It’s a great way to include whole grains and makes for a satisfying meal.

Remember, the sky’s the limit! Get creative and have fun with your ingredients. Enjoy experimenting and finding your personal favorite combo!

Nutritional Information Section

Let’s take a quick look at the nutritional values for this refreshing summer salad! Keep in mind that these are estimates based on typical ingredients used, and individual results may vary depending on specific brands and ingredient choices.

• Serving Size: 1 serving
• Calories: 250
• Fat: 20g
• Saturated Fat: 4g
• Unsaturated Fat: 16g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Cholesterol: 10mg
• Sodium: 300mg
• Carbohydrates: 15g
• Fiber: 3g
• Sugar: 4g
• Protein: 5g

This salad is not only delicious but also a great way to enjoy fresh veggies while keeping things light and healthy during those hot summer days. Dive in and enjoy every nutritious bite!

FAQ Section

Can I make this salad ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the salad ingredients a few hours in advance. Just keep the dressing separate until you’re ready to serve. This way, the greens will stay crisp and fresh. If you do mix everything together beforehand, I recommend only chilling it for up to an hour to avoid wilting. It’s a great option for meal prep or bringing to gatherings!

What can I substitute for feta cheese?

If feta isn’t your thing, no worries! You can swap it out for goat cheese, which has a similar tangy flavor and creamy texture. For a vegan option, try using crumbled tofu seasoned with a bit of lemon juice and nutritional yeast. It can mimic that savory flavor without the dairy!

How do I store leftovers?

To keep your salad fresh, store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge. If you’ve dressed the salad, it’s best to eat it within a day. If you have leftover ingredients, store them separately and mix a fresh batch when you’re ready to enjoy it again. That way, your greens will stay nice and crunchy!

Can I add other vegetables?

Absolutely! This salad is super versatile, so feel free to get creative. Seasonal vegetables like bell peppers, radishes, or even shredded carrots would be fantastic additions. Just remember to cut them into similar sizes for an even mix, and enjoy experimenting with whatever fresh produce you have on hand!

Is this salad gluten-free?

Yes! This summer salad is naturally gluten-free, making it a perfect choice for anyone avoiding gluten. Just double-check any packaged ingredients like olives or feta to ensure they’re certified gluten-free, and you’re good to go!

Summer Recipes: 5 Refreshing Salads to Brighten Your Days

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• Author: Julia marin
• Total Time: 15 minutes
• Yield: 4 servings 1x
• Diet: Vegan

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Description

A refreshing summer salad perfect for warm days.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 2 cups mixed greens
• 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
• 1 cucumber, diced
• 1/2 cup red onion, thinly sliced
• 1/2 cup feta cheese, crumbled
• 1/4 cup olives, pitted and sliced
• 1/4 cup olive oil
• 2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar
• Salt and pepper to taste

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Instructions

1. Wash and dry the mixed greens.
2. In a large bowl, combine the mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, red onion, feta cheese, and olives.
3. In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, balsamic vinegar, salt, and pepper.
4. Drizzle the dressing over the salad and toss gently to combine.
5. Serve immediately or refrigerate for up to an hour before serving.

Notes

• Use fresh ingredients for the best flavor.
• Feel free to add grilled chicken or shrimp for protein.
• Adjust the dressing to your taste.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 0 minutes
• Category: Salad
• Method: Mixing
• Cuisine: Mediterranean

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 serving
• Calories: 250
• Sugar: 4g
• Sodium: 300mg
• Fat: 20g
• Saturated Fat: 4g
• Unsaturated Fat: 16g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 15g
• Fiber: 3g
• Protein: 5g
• Cholesterol: 10mg

Keywords: summer recipes, salad, easy salad recipes