We all have those moments when we crave something fresh and flavorful. I remember a sunny afternoon, sitting with friends outdoors, enjoying laughter and good food. That’s when I first tasted a zesty Mediterranean avocado salad, and I’ve been hooked ever since. It’s a bright mix of flavors and textures that brings a little sunshine to any meal. This recipe is meaningful because it brings people together; it’s perfect for gatherings or just a quick lunch at home. The combination of creamy avocados with tangy olives and feta makes this salad truly special.
why make this recipe
Making Zesty Mediterranean Avocado Salad is a great choice for so many reasons. First, it’s quick and easy to prepare, taking only about 15 minutes from start to finish. It’s also loaded with healthy ingredients, making it a nutritious choice. This salad is refreshing for a hot day and works well as a side dish or a light main course. Plus, you can customize it to your taste!
how to make Zesty Mediterranean Avocado Salad
Ingredients:
- 2 ripe avocados, peeled, pitted, and diced
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 cucumber, diced
- 1/4 red onion, thinly sliced
- 1/4 cup Kalamata olives, pitted and sliced
- 1/4 cup feta cheese, crumbled
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
- 2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- Optional: 1/4 cup pine nuts, toasted
Directions:
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the diced avocados, halved cherry tomatoes, diced cucumber, and sliced red onion.
- Add the sliced Kalamata olives, crumbled feta cheese, and chopped parsley to the bowl.
- In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, lemon juice, minced garlic, salt, and black pepper to create the dressing.
- Pour the dressing over the salad ingredients in the mixing bowl.
- Gently toss all the ingredients together until everything is well combined and evenly coated with the dressing.
- If desired, sprinkle the toasted pine nuts over the top of the salad for added crunch.
- Serve immediately or refrigerate for up to 1 hour before serving to allow the flavors to meld.
how to serve Zesty Mediterranean Avocado Salad
Serve this salad chilled or at room temperature. It pairs beautifully with grilled meats or can stand alone as a light meal. You can also enjoy it in a wrap or on toast for a quick lunch option.
how to store Zesty Mediterranean Avocado Salad
If you have leftovers, store the salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will keep well for up to one day. However, if you have dressed the salad, the avocados may brown slightly and the textures might change, so it’s best enjoyed fresh.
tips to make Zesty Mediterranean Avocado Salad
- Use ripe avocados for the best flavor and creaminess.
- To prevent avocados from browning too quickly, squeeze a little extra lemon juice over them.
- Feel free to add other vegetables like bell peppers or radishes.
- For a heartier salad, add chickpeas or quinoa.
variation
You can switch up the cheese by using goat cheese or omit it entirely for a dairy-free version. Try adding grilled shrimp or chicken for more protein, or include different herbs like mint or dill for a twist on flavor.
FAQs
Q1: Can I make this salad ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the ingredients a few hours in advance, but it’s best to mix them with the dressing just before serving to keep the avocados fresh.
Q2: Is this salad gluten-free?
Yes, all the ingredients in this salad are naturally gluten-free, making it a great choice for those with gluten sensitivities.
Q3: What can I substitute for olives?
If you don’t like olives, you can omit them or replace them with capers or even try sun-dried tomatoes for a unique flavor.
Zesty Mediterranean Avocado Salad
Ingredients
Salad Ingredients
- 2 pieces ripe avocados, peeled, pitted, and diced Use ripe avocados for the best flavor and creaminess.
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 piece cucumber, diced
- 1/4 cup red onion, thinly sliced
- 1/4 cup Kalamata olives, pitted and sliced Feel free to omit or replace with capers for a different flavor.
- 1/4 cup feta cheese, crumbled For a dairy-free version, omit the cheese.
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped You can also use other herbs like mint or dill.
- 2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice Squeezing extra lemon juice helps prevent avocados from browning.
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- to taste Salt and black pepper
- 1/4 cup pine nuts, toasted Optional for added crunch.
Method
Preparation
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the diced avocados, halved cherry tomatoes, diced cucumber, and sliced red onion.
- Add the sliced Kalamata olives, crumbled feta cheese, and chopped parsley to the bowl.
- In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, lemon juice, minced garlic, salt, and black pepper to create the dressing.
- Pour the dressing over the salad ingredients in the mixing bowl.
- Gently toss all the ingredients together until everything is well combined and evenly coated with the dressing.
Serving
- Serve the salad immediately or refrigerate for up to 1 hour before serving to allow the flavors to meld.
- Sprinkle the toasted pine nuts over the top of the salad for added crunch.