Customizable Mediterranean Salad
Ingredients:
- 2 cucumbers, sliced
- 2 large tomatoes, diced
- 1 small red onion, thinly sliced
- 1/2 cup banana peppers, sliced (adjust to taste)
- 1/2 cup black olives, sliced
- 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese (optional)
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley (optional)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Olive Garden dressing or your favorite vinaigrette
Instructions:
- In a large bowl, combine the cucumbers, tomatoes, red onion, banana peppers, and black olives.
- If using, sprinkle the crumbled feta cheese and chopped parsley over the top.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Drizzle with Olive Garden dressing or your preferred vinaigrette.
- Toss gently to coat all the ingredients evenly.
- Serve immediately or refrigerate until ready to serve.
Customization Options:
- Protein: Add grilled chicken, shrimp, or tofu for extra protein.
- Greens: Serve the salad over a bed of mixed greens or spinach for added nutrients.
- Additional Vegetables: Mix in your favorite vegetables like bell peppers, carrots, or avocado.
- Herbs: Experiment with fresh herbs like basil or mint for a burst of flavor.
- Cheese: Swap feta cheese for goat cheese, Parmesan, or mozzarella.
- Nuts and Seeds: Sprinkle with toasted pine nuts, almonds, or sunflower seeds for crunch.
- Dressing: Try different dressings such as balsamic vinaigrette, Greek yogurt dressing, or lemon tahini dressing for variety.
Feel free to adjust the ingredients and quantities according to your preferences. Enjoy your customizable Mediterranean salad!
