Summer is the perfect time to enjoy fresh and healthy meals. One dish that captures the essence of summer is the vibrant and refreshing summer salad. Packed with crisp vegetables and rich flavors, this salad is not only nutritious but also incredibly easy to prepare.
Why Make This Recipe
This summer salad is a great choice because it’s light, refreshing, and full of color. It allows you to take advantage of seasonal produce, making it healthy and flavorful. Whether you’re hosting a barbecue, having a picnic, or just need a quick lunch, this salad is perfect for any occasion.
How to Make Summer Salad
Making a summer salad is simple and quick. Follow the steps below to create a delicious dish that everyone will love.
Ingredients
- 4 thinly sliced cucumbers
- Tomatoes
- Red onions
- Feta cheese
- Olive oil
- Lemon juice
- Salt
- Pepper
- Fresh herbs (like parsley or mint)
Directions
- In a large bowl, combine the sliced cucumbers, tomatoes, and red onions.
- Crumble feta cheese on top.
- In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, salt, and pepper to make a dressing.
- Pour the dressing over the salad and toss gently to combine.
- Garnish with fresh herbs, if desired.
- Serve immediately or store in the fridge.
How to Serve Summer Salad
You can enjoy the summer salad chilled or at room temperature. It makes a perfect side dish for grilled meats or can be a light main course when served alone. Feel free to add extra toppings like nuts or seeds for added crunch.
How to Store Summer Salad
If you have leftovers, store the salad in an airtight container in the fridge. It will stay fresh for up to 2 days. However, keep in mind that the cucumbers may soften over time, so it’s best to eat it sooner rather than later.
Tips to Make Summer Salad
- Use fresh and ripe ingredients for the best flavor.
- Experiment with different herbs to customize the taste.
- Add protein like grilled chicken or chickpeas to make it more filling.
Variation
You can easily turn this salad into a pasta salad by adding cooked pasta. You can also swap out the feta cheese for goat cheese for a different flavor.
FAQs
Q: Can I make the dressing ahead of time?
A: Yes, you can prepare the dressing a day in advance and store it in the fridge. Just shake it before using.
Q: What other vegetables can I add?
A: You can include bell peppers, avocados, or even corn for extra color and nutrition.
Q: Is this salad suitable for vegans?
A: Yes, you can make this salad vegan by omitting the feta cheese or using a plant-based alternative.
Enjoy making and sharing this delightful summer salad! It’s a simple way to celebrate the flavors of the season.
Summer Salad
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 4 pieces thinly sliced cucumbers Use fresh cucumbers for crunch.
- Tomatoes Use ripe tomatoes, chopped.
- Red onions Thinly sliced for flavor.
- Feta cheese Crumble on top of the salad.
Dressing Ingredients
- 3 tablespoons Olive oil Extra virgin is preferred.
- 2 tablespoons Lemon juice Freshly squeezed for best flavor.
- to taste Salt
- to taste Pepper
Garnish
- a handful Fresh herbs (like parsley or mint) For garnish and added flavor.
Instructions
Preparation
- In a large bowl, combine the sliced cucumbers, tomatoes, and red onions.
- Crumble feta cheese on top.
Prepare Dressing
- In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, salt, and pepper to make a dressing.
Combine and Serve
- Pour the dressing over the salad and toss gently to combine.
- Garnish with fresh herbs, if desired.
- Serve immediately or store in the fridge.
