Vibrant Mediterranean Salad

This vibrant Mediterranean salad is a refreshing and flavorful side dish that's perfect for any occasion. It's made with a variety of fresh, colorful vegetables, including cucumbers, tomatoes, red onion, and bell pepper. The salad is also tossed in a simple dressing made with olive oil, lemon juice, salt, and pepper. The result is a delicious and healthy salad that's sure to please everyone at the table.

The Mediterranean region has a long and storied culinary history, and this salad is a testament to the region's vibrant flavors. The salad is thought to have originated in the Middle East, where it was traditionally made with a variety of fresh vegetables and herbs. Over time, the salad spread to other parts of the Mediterranean region, and it eventually became a staple of the region's cuisine. Today, the salad is enjoyed by people all over the world, and it's a popular choice for summer gatherings and picnics. There are many different variations of the Mediterranean salad, but the basic ingredients remain the same. The salad typically includes a variety of fresh vegetables, such as cucumbers, tomatoes, red onion, and bell pepper. The vegetables are usually chopped into small pieces, and they are then tossed in a simple dressing made with olive oil, lemon juice, salt, and pepper. Some variations of the salad also include feta cheese or other types of cheese. The Mediterranean salad is a refreshing and flavorful side dish that's perfect for any occasion. It's easy to make, and it's a great way to get your daily dose of fruits and vegetables. So next time you're looking for a healthy and delicious side dish, give this Mediterranean salad a try.

Prep time: 10 | Cook time: 15 | Serves: 2

Ingredients

• 1 cup quinoa, cooked
• 1/2 cup chopped cucumber
• 1/2 cup chopped tomatoes
• 1/2 cup chopped red onion
• 1/2 cup chopped bell pepper (any color)
• 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
• 1/4 cup chopped fresh mint
• 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese (optional, for non-vegans)

Instructions

1. Combine all the ingredients in a large bowl.
2. Whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, salt, and pepper in a small bowl.
3. Pour the dressing over the salad and toss to coat.
4. Serve immediately or chill for later.

Why It Works

• The combination of fresh, colorful vegetables makes this salad visually appealing.
• The simple dressing made with olive oil, lemon juice, salt, and pepper enhances the flavors of the vegetables without overpowering them.
• The salad is a good source of vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants.