Mediterranean Salad with Hummus (Print)
Vibrant, refreshing salad with crisp vegetables, tangy feta, and creamy hummus. Ideal for a light lunch or delightful side.
# What You Need:
→ Vegetables
01 - 1 large cucumber, finely diced
02 - 2 cups cherry tomatoes, halved
03 - 1 red bell pepper, finely diced
04 - 1/2 red onion, thinly sliced
05 - 1/4 cup Kalamata olives, pitted and sliced
06 - 1/4 cup fresh parsley, roughly chopped
→ Cheese
07 - 1/2 cup feta cheese, crumbled
→ Hummus
08 - 1 cup prepared hummus
→ Dressing
09 - 3 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil
10 - 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
11 - 1 garlic clove, finely minced
12 - 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
13 - Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
→ Optional Additions
14 - 1 cup cooked chickpeas, drained and rinsed
15 - 1/4 cup pine nuts, lightly toasted
# How to Make:
01 - Combine diced cucumber, halved cherry tomatoes, diced red bell pepper, sliced red onion, pitted olives, and chopped parsley in a spacious salad bowl.
02 - In a separate small bowl, vigorously whisk together the extra-virgin olive oil, fresh lemon juice, minced garlic, dried oregano, salt, and freshly ground black pepper until well combined.
03 - Drizzle the prepared dressing over the vegetable mixture and gently toss to ensure an even coating.
04 - Incorporate the crumbled feta cheese into the salad, tossing lightly once more.
05 - Should you choose, add the drained chickpeas and toasted pine nuts at this stage, tossing gently to distribute.
06 - Evenly spread the hummus in a substantial layer across a large serving platter or portion it individually onto plates.
07 - Carefully mound the dressed salad mixture atop the spread hummus.
08 - Garnish with additional fresh parsley or a light drizzle of olive oil, as preferred. Serve without delay to enjoy its freshness.
# Expert Advice:
01 -
- It's like a secret shortcut to feeling completely refreshed, even after a busy day.
- The way it balances tangy lemon with rich hummus makes every bite surprisingly satisfying.
02 -
- Always slice the red onion as thinly as possible; thick chunks can really overpower the delicate salad.
- Fresh lemon juice is non-negotiable; bottled lemon juice just doesn't deliver that bright, essential zing.
03 -
- Prep your veggies ahead of time and store them separately; toss with dressing just before serving to keep everything crisp.
- Let the dressing sit for 10-15 minutes after whisking to allow the flavors to meld beautifully.