Mediterranean Energy Salad

This Mediterranean Energy Salad is a refreshing and nutrient-dense dish perfect for those following the Paleo diet. It features vibrant greens, juicy tomatoes, protein-packed chickpeas, tangy feta cheese, and Kalamata olives, all tossed in a light lemon dressing.

🕒 (Prep: 15 minutes, Cook: None, Total: 15 minutes)

🍽 Servings: 2

🔥 Difficulty: Easy

🌎 Cuisine: Mediterranean

Allergens

Dairy (feta cheese), Nuts (not in this recipe)

Ingredients

4 cups mixed salad greens (e.g., spinach, arugula, and baby kale)
1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
1 can chickpeas, drained and rinsed
1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese
1/4 cup Kalamata olives, pitted
1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
1/4 cup fresh mint leaves, chopped
1 lemon, juiced
3 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
Salt and pepper, to taste

Instructions

In a large salad bowl, combine the mixed salad greens, cherry tomatoes, chickpeas, crumbled feta cheese, Kalamata olives, parsley, and mint leaves. In a small mixing bowl, whisk together the lemon juice, olive oil, salt, and pepper to create a light dressing. Drizzle the dressing over the salad and toss well to combine.

Chef’s Insight

The combination of flavors and textures in this Mediterranean Energy Salad creates a perfect balance of taste and nutrition. It's designed to fuel your body with energy and clarity, making it ideal for breakfast or a mid-day snack.

Notes

Customize this salad with your favorite ingredients or adjust portion sizes to suit your specific dietary needs.

Substitutions

To make this dish nut-free, simply omit the olives or replace them with a nut-free alternative like sunflower seeds. For a vegan option, use a vegan feta cheese substitute or skip the feta altogether.

Alternative Preparations

This salad can be prepared in advance and stored in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. The flavors will continue to meld and intensify over time, creating an even more vibrant eating experience.

Alternative Methods

No cooking is required for this recipe. Simply assemble the salad and dress it with the olive oil and lemon juice mixture.

Best Storage Practice

Store leftover salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.

Shelf Life

This dish has a shelf life of up to 2 days when stored in the refrigerator.

Plating Tips

Arrange the salad on individual plates, showcasing the beautiful colors and textures of the ingredients. Drizzle a little extra dressing over the top for an elegant finishing touch.

Nutrition Facts

This dish offers a balanced mix of protein, fiber, and healthy fats to keep you feeling full and energized throughout the day. The antioxidants in the vegetables and herbs also provide additional nutritional benefits.