Are you ready to tantalize your taste buds with a burst of Mediterranean flavors? Dive into the vibrant world of a Vegan Chopped Greek Salad that’s not only quick to prepare but also packed with fresh, wholesome ingredients! In just 15 minutes, you can whip up a colorful dish that’s perfect for any occasion—be it a summer barbecue, a cozy family dinner, or a healthy lunch. This salad is a feast for the eyes and the palate, combining crisp vegetables and zesty dressing that will leave you craving more. Don’t miss out on this delightful recipe that’s sure to impress your guests and nourish your body!
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: -
Total Time: 15 mins
Cuisine: Greek
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 1 cucumber, diced
- 2 tomatoes, diced
- 1 red onion, chopped
- 1 bell pepper, diced
- 1/2 cup olives, pitted and sliced
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 2 tbsp red wine vinegar
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Begin by preparing all your fresh vegetables. Wash the cucumber, tomatoes, bell pepper, and red onion thoroughly under running water to remove any dirt or pesticides.
- Dice the cucumber into small, bite-sized pieces. You can peel it if you prefer, but leaving the skin on adds extra nutrients and a nice crunch.
- Next, dice the tomatoes. Make sure to remove the seeds if you prefer a less watery salad. Cut them into similar-sized pieces as the cucumber for even distribution.
- Chop the red onion into small pieces. If you find raw onion too strong, you can soak the chopped onion in cold water for a few minutes to mellow its flavor.
- Dice the bell pepper, removing the seeds and stem. You can use any color of bell pepper, such as green, red, or yellow, depending on your preference.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the diced cucumber, tomatoes, chopped red onion, and diced bell pepper. Add the sliced olives to the bowl.
- In a separate small bowl, whisk together the olive oil and red wine vinegar. This will be your dressing. You can adjust the quantities to taste if you prefer a more tangy or oilier dressing.
- Pour the dressing over the vegetable mixture in the large bowl. Gently toss all the ingredients together until everything is well coated with the dressing.
- Season the salad with salt and pepper to taste. Start with a small amount, as you can always add more later. Toss again to ensure the seasoning is evenly distributed.
- Let the salad sit for about 5 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together. This will enhance the overall taste of the salad.
- Serve the vegan chopped Greek salad in individual bowls or on a large platter. Enjoy it as a refreshing side dish or a light main course!
Tips
- Choose Fresh Ingredients: The key to a delicious Greek salad is using the freshest vegetables possible. Visit your local farmer’s market for the best produce.
- Customize Your Veggies: Feel free to add or substitute other vegetables like radishes, carrots, or even avocado for added creaminess.
- Olive Oil Quality Matters: Use high-quality extra virgin olive oil for the dressing; it enhances the flavor significantly.
- Make It Ahead: If you’re preparing this salad in advance, keep the dressing separate until just before serving to maintain the crispness of the vegetables.
- Add Protein: For a heartier meal, consider adding chickpeas or quinoa to boost the protein content while keeping it vegan.
- Let It Marinate: Allow the salad to sit for a few minutes after tossing to let the flavors meld together beautifully.
- Perfect for Meal Prep: This salad keeps well in the fridge for a couple of days, making it a great option for meal prepping!
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 120kcal
Carbohydrates: 8g
Protein: 2g
Fat: 10g
Saturated Fat: g
Cholesterol: 0mg
