Fresh and Flavorful Mediterranean Salad with Homemade Vinaigrette

In the heart of Mediterranean cuisine lies a focus on fresh, vibrant ingredients, and this delightful Avocado Salad recipe is a testament to just that. Packed with the goodness of crisp lettuce, creamy avocado, tangy black olives, and juicy cherry tomatoes, this salad brings a splash of colors and flavors to your table. Tossed in a homemade zesty lemon vinaigrette, it offers a perfect balance of taste and texture that is both satisfying and refreshing.

Preparation Time

  • Prep: 15 minutes
  • Total: 15 minutes

Ingredients

  • 10 lettuce leaves
  • 1 onion
  • 1 avocado
  • 100g black olives
  • 80g cheese (your choice of feta or mozzarella recommended)
  • 200g cherry tomatoes
  • 1/2 bell pepper

For the Vinaigrette

  • Juice of 1/2 lemon
  • 4 tablespoons of oil (olive oil preferred)
  • Salt, oregano, and black pepper to taste

Instruction:

  1. Begin by washing and chopping the lettuce leaves. Thinly slice the onion and bell pepper. Peel and slice the avocado.
  2. Halve the cherry tomatoes and cube the cheese.
  3. In a large salad bowl, combine the lettuce, onion, avocado, black olives, cheese, cherry tomatoes, and bell pepper.
  4. For the dressing, whisk together lemon juice, olive oil, salt, oregano, and black pepper in a separate bowl.
  5. Drizzle the vinaigrette over the salad and gently toss to ensure all ingredients are evenly coated.
  6. Serve immediately to enjoy the fresh flavors.

Serving Suggestions

This salad is perfect as a light lunch or as a side dish with grilled meats or seafood. Consider serving it alongside grilled chicken or salmon for a fulfilling meal. For a more robust meal, add grilled shrimp or beef strips on top of the salad.

Cooking Tips

  • Use ripe but firm avocado to prevent it from turning mushy in the salad.
  • For the best flavor, use extra virgin olive oil in the vinaigrette.
  • If you have time, let the chopped onions soak in cold water for about 10 minutes before adding to the salad to soften their sharp taste.

Nutritional Benefits

This salad is a nutritional powerhouse. Avocados are loaded with healthy fats, fiber, and vitamins C, E, K, and B-6. Cherry tomatoes and bell peppers add a good dose of antioxidants like vitamin C and lycopene. The olives and olive oil provide heart-healthy monounsaturated fats.

Dietary Information

This recipe is naturally gluten-free and can be customized for different diets:

  • Vegan/Vegetarian: Skip the cheese or use a plant-based alternative.
  • Keto: Ensure the cheese and olives are low in carbs, and you’re set for a keto-friendly meal.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

With minimal prep time and no cooking required, this Mediterranean Avocado Salad is your go-to for a quick, healthy meal that doesn’t skimp on flavor. The combination of fresh vegetables, the creaminess of the avocado, and the tang of the vinaigrette make it a refreshing choice for any day of the week.

Conclusion

This Mediterranean Avocado Salad stands out with its simple preparation and fresh ingredients. It’s perfect for those seeking a healthy yet delicious meal option. Whether you’re dining alone or entertaining guests, this salad promises to be a crowd-pleaser, making it a must-try recipe for anyone who loves combining taste with nutritional benefits. Enjoy your culinary journey with this delightful salad! Bon appétit! 🥗