Nutrition Facts
Servings 6
- Amount Per Serving
- Calories 230kcal
If you're diving into a summer barbecue, then this affordable salad recipe is your new best friend. I can already picture it sitting proudly on the table alongside juicy grilled chicken or succulent ribs.
Not only does it provide a refreshing contrast to the smoky flavors of grilled meat, but it also serves as a vibrant centerpiece to any outdoor feast. Picture the bright hues of crisp veggies and the flavor-packed dressing just waiting to be devoured.
Today, I’m excited to share an affordable salad recipe that’s as easy on the wallet as it is on the palate. This lively medley of fresh vegetables and feta cheese, drizzled with my zingy homemade dressing, is perfect for those looking to shake up their meal routine without breaking the bank. You’ll love how satisfying and full of flavor this dish is while keeping your budget in check.
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An affordable salad recipe is a budget-friendly dish that combines fresh, seasonal ingredients with flavorful dressings, allowing you to enjoy a nutritious meal without spending a fortune. This recipe highlights the use of vibrant seasonal vegetables, cheese, and a homemade dressing, all designed to bring out the best in each ingredient while keeping it simple and satisfying.
The flavor profile is bright and zesty, packed with fresh crunch and a wonderful balance of tangy notes from the vinegar and Dijon mustard. The creaminess of the feta complements the crisp vegetables, while the fresh mint adds an unexpected twist. It’s refreshing, savory, and just a touch salty, making it a well-rounded and enjoyable dish.
You’ll love this dish because it’s not just delicious; it’s versatile. Feel free to switch up the veggies based on what you have or prefer. Plus, it’s a no-cook recipe that takes mere minutes to prepare, leaving you with more time to enjoy your gathering. Affordable, nourishing, and bursting with flavor, what's not to love?
Here’s what you’ll need for this budget-friendly delight:
- ¼ cup high-quality extra-virgin olive oil
- 3 tablespoons red wine vinegar
- 1 clove garlic, finely minced
- ½ teaspoon dried oregano, plus extra for garnish
- ¼ teaspoon Dijon mustard
- 1 large English cucumber, halved lengthwise, seeds removed, and sliced into half-moons
- 1 green bell pepper, cut into 1-inch pieces
- 2 cups halved cherry tomatoes
- 5 ounces feta cheese, diced into ½-inch cubes
- ⅓ cup thinly sliced red onion
- ⅓ cup Kalamata olives, pitted and halved
- ⅓ cup fresh mint leaves
- ¼ teaspoon sea salt
- Freshly ground black pepper to taste
- Optional Additions: ½ cup artichoke hearts, drained and chopped for extra flavor; or a handful of arugula for a peppery kick.
Ingredients From : loveandlemons.com
Creating this vibrant salad is a breeze. Just gather your ingredients, follow the steps below, and you’ll have a nutritious dish that’s perfect for picnics and potlucks alike.
In a small bowl, combine the extra-virgin olive oil, red wine vinegar, minced garlic, dried oregano, Dijon mustard, sea salt, and several grinds of freshly ground black pepper. Use a whisk to mix everything until it’s well blended and emulsified. Set this dressing aside; it’s the heart of the dish!
On a large platter or cutting board, take your English cucumber and slice it into half-moon shapes. Next, chop the green bell pepper into 1-inch pieces and halved your cherry tomatoes. Don’t forget the red onion—thinly slice it for a nice bite.
Now, arrange the cucumber, green bell pepper, cherry tomatoes, red onion, and Kalamata olives stylishly on the large platter. Take your time to make it visually appealing; after all, we eat with our eyes first!
Sprinkle the diced feta cheese generously across the top and drizzle your prepared dressing over the salad. Remember, you don’t want to drown the veggies—just enough to enhance their natural flavors.
With clean hands or kitchen tongs, gently toss the salad to combine all the ingredients. It’s important to be gentle here to avoid breaking up the feta too much. Lastly, sprinkle on a few extra pinches of dried oregano and top with the fresh mint leaves.
Taste the salad and adjust the seasoning if necessary. If you want a little more kick, feel free to add extra black pepper or a squeeze of lemon juice for brightness. Serve this dish chilled or at room temperature—it’s delightful either way!
- Prep Ahead: Feel free to prepare the dressing and chop the veggies the night before. Just toss everything together just before serving.
- Experiment with Veggies: Swap in any seasonal vegetables you have on hand like radishes or carrots for a fun twist.
- Make it Heartier: Add cooked quinoa or chickpeas to increase protein and make the salad more filling.
- Serve with Bread: Pair this salad with crusty bread or pita to mop up the delicious dressing!
- Store in the Fridge: Leftovers can be stored in the fridge for a day; the flavors develop beautifully overnight.
You can easily store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator. The salad will stay fresh for up to 2 days. However, to maintain the crunchiness of the vegetables, try to keep the dressing separate until you're ready to enjoy it.
- Cucumber: Substitute with zucchini for a slight twist.
- Feta Cheese: Use goat cheese if you prefer a creamier texture.
- Red Wine Vinegar: Apple cider vinegar works well if you’re in a pinch.
- Kalamata Olives: Any black olives, like black ripe olives, can replace Kalamata.
- Mint Leaves: If fresh mint isn’t on hand, parsley can provide a delightful freshness instead.
This affordable salad recipe is not only cost-effective but also nutritious. It’s packed with vitamins from the fresh vegetables, healthy fats from the olive oil, and protein from the feta cheese. With approximately 230 calories per serving, it's a guilt-free addition to your meal.
- Grilled Chicken: This salad pairs perfectly with grilled chicken for a complete meal.
- Fish Tacos: Serve alongside your favorite fish tacos for a refreshing contrast.
- Sandwiches: This salad makes a great side for hearty sandwiches or wraps.
- Pasta Dishes: Add a light Italian pasta dish to your table for a filling dinner.
- BBQ Dishes: Pair with hamburgers or hot dogs for a classic summer gathering.
- Greek Yogurt: Use it as a substitute for feta if you’d like a creamy texture without the cheese.
- Chickpeas: Great addition for extra protein; simply toss in a cup of canned chickpeas (drained).
- Summer Squash: Rather than cucumbers, use chopped summer squash for a different flavor.
- Red Pepper Flakes: If you like heat, sprinkle in some red pepper flakes for a kick.
- Cabbage: Shredded cabbage can add a crunchy texture if you have it on hand instead of peppers.
1. Can I make this salad ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the salad a few hours in advance. Just remember to hold off on the dressing until shortly before serving to keep the veggies crisp.
2. How long will this salad last in the fridge?
This salad is best enjoyed within 1-2 days. After that, the veggies may start to soften.
3. Can I freeze this salad?
Freezing isn’t recommended, as the texture of the vegetables will change when thawed. Enjoy it fresh for the best quality!
4. Is this salad gluten-free?
Yes, this salad is naturally gluten-free, making it a great option for anyone avoiding gluten.
5. Can I add protein to this salad?
Definitely! Grilled chicken, chickpeas, or even chunks of leftover steak can be delicious additions.
In conclusion, this affordable salad recipe is a delightful addition to any meal. Not only is it easy to prepare, but it’s also adaptable, packed with flavor, and budget-friendly—perfect for all those busy weeknights or gatherings with friends. So, grab those fresh veggies and give this salad a try; I promise it’ll become a staple in your cooking repertoire!
Today, I’m excited to share an affordable salad recipe that’s as easy on the wallet as it is on the palate. This lively medley of fresh vegetables and feta cheese, drizzled with my zingy homemade dressing, is perfect for those looking to shake up their meal routine without breaking the bank. You’ll love how satisfying and full of flavor this dish is while keeping your budget in check.
Servings 6
- Prep Ahead: Feel free to prepare the dressing and chop the veggies the night before. Just toss everything together just before serving.
- Experiment with Veggies: Swap in any seasonal vegetables you have on hand like radishes or carrots for a fun twist.
- Make it Heartier: Add cooked quinoa or chickpeas to increase protein and make the salad more filling.
- Serve with Bread: Pair this salad with crusty bread or pita to mop up the delicious dressing!
- Store in the Fridge: Leftovers can be stored in the fridge for a day; the flavors develop beautifully overnight.
Hi Everyone! I’m April Cherry, a registered dietitian and the creator of Affordable Food Ideas. Growing up near Waltham, MA, I learned that flavorful, wholesome meals don’t need to be expensive, and that lesson has shaped my approach to cooking and nutrition. Through my blog, I share budget-friendly recipes and tips to help others eat well without breaking the bank, while still enjoying delicious, nutritious meals.