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Mediterranean Salad with Feta, Kalamata Olives, and Herb Dressing Recipe

4.9 from 125 reviews

A fresh and vibrant Mediterranean Salad featuring crisp Romaine lettuce, cherry tomatoes, Persian cucumbers, pepperoncini, Kalamata olives, and creamy feta cheese, all tossed in a flavorful homemade garlic herb dressing with Greek yogurt and extra-virgin olive oil. Perfect as a light lunch or side dish, this salad balances tangy, savory, and fresh notes for a delightful Mediterranean-inspired meal.

Ingredients

Scale

Salad Ingredients

  • 1 large head Romaine lettuce or 2 medium, chopped (about 8 cups)
  • 1 pint cherry tomatoes, halved
  • 1 cup sliced Persian cucumbers (or English cucumber)
  • 3/4 cup sliced pepperoncini, drained
  • 1/2 cup thinly sliced red onion
  • 1/2 cup pitted Kalamata olives
  • 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese
  • 1 cup garlic herb croutons
  • Freshly cracked black pepper to taste

Dressing Ingredients

  • 1/2 cup Greek yogurt
  • 1/4 cup mayonnaise (may substitute more yogurt)
  • 1/3 cup red wine vinegar
  • 2 tablespoons lemon juice
  • 3 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil
  • 1 tsp dried parsley
  • 1 tsp dried dill
  • 1 tsp dried basil
  • 1/2 tsp garlic powder
  • 1/2 tsp onion powder
  • 1/2 tsp dried oregano
  • 1/2 tsp paprika
  • 1/2 tsp salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
  • 2 tablespoons grated parmesan cheese (powdered)

Instructions

  1. Make the Dressing: In a medium bowl, whisk together Greek yogurt, mayonnaise, red wine vinegar, lemon juice, dried herbs (parsley, dill, basil), garlic powder, onion powder, dried oregano, paprika, salt, pepper, and grated parmesan cheese. Slowly add the extra-virgin olive oil while whisking until the dressing reaches your desired creamy consistency. Season with additional salt and pepper to taste. For optimal flavor, chill the dressing for at least 30 minutes before serving.
  2. Assemble the Salad: Place the chopped Romaine lettuce in a large salad bowl. Top it with halved cherry tomatoes, sliced cucumbers, drained pepperoncini, thinly sliced red onion, pitted Kalamata olives, crumbled feta cheese, and freshly cracked black pepper to taste. Hold off on adding croutons if you expect leftovers to keep them crisp.
  3. Add the Dressing: If the salad will be served immediately, drizzle your desired amount of dressing over the salad and toss gently to combine all ingredients evenly. Alternatively, dress individual salad servings at the table. When ready, sprinkle the garlic herb croutons on top for added crunch, then serve and enjoy!

Notes

  • Chilling the dressing for at least 30 minutes enhances the flavors.
  • Hold the croutons if you plan to store leftovers to maintain their crispness.
  • You can substitute all mayonnaise with Greek yogurt for a lighter dressing.
  • The salad is best served fresh but can be prepared a few hours ahead with dressing on the side.
  • Use fresh herbs if available for a more vibrant taste.

Keywords: Mediterranean salad, Greek salad, Romaine lettuce, feta cheese salad, healthy salad, yogurt dressing, easy salad recipe