Description
A crisp, colorful Italian salad featuring fresh greens, cucumbers, cherry tomatoes, olives, and cheese, dressed with a simple vinaigrette.
Ingredients
- 6 cups fresh greens (romaine, mixed baby greens, or arugula)
- 1 small cucumber, thinly sliced
- 1 cup cherry or grape tomatoes, halved
- 1/2 cup olives, pitted and halved
- 3/4 cup cheese, cubed or crumbled
- 1 cup croutons
- 3 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil
- 1½ tablespoons red wine vinegar
- 1/2 teaspoon Dijon mustard (optional)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- Optional: 1 teaspoon dried oregano or a tablespoon chopped fresh basil
Instructions
- Wash and dry the greens thoroughly.
- Place greens in a large salad bowl.
- Add sliced cucumber, halved tomatoes, and olives.
- Whisk together olive oil, red wine vinegar, Dijon, salt, and pepper.
- Pour about three-quarters of the dressing over the salad.
- Toss gently to coat.
- Add cheese and toss gently.
- Sprinkle croutons on top and drizzle remaining dressing.
- Taste and adjust salt and pepper as needed.
- Serve immediately.
Notes
For a richer dressing, add honey or garlic. Use pasteurized cheeses for vulnerable guests.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Category: Salad
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: Italian