Mediterranean Breakfast Salad
This Mediterranean Breakfast Salad is a vibrant, healthy, and refreshing dish that combines fresh vegetables, protein-rich ingredients, and healthy fats, all drizzled with a zesty dressing.Perfect for a light breakfast or brunch, this salad is customizable, quick to prepare, and packed with bold Mediterranean flavors.
Equipment
- Knife – 1, for chopping vegetables
- Cutting board – 1, for prep work
- Large bowl – 1, for tossing the salad ingredients
- Small bowl – 1, for mixing the dressing
- Whisk or fork – 1, for mixing the dressing
- Pan (if cooking eggs or protein) – 1, for cooking
Ingredients
- 1 cucumber diced
- 2 tomatoes chopped
- 1 bell pepper sliced
- 4 cups mixed leafy greens e.g., spinach, arugula, or romaine
- 4 oz feta cheese crumbled
- 1/2 cup Kalamata olives pitted and sliced
- 2 hard-boiled eggs sliced (optional)
- 1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil
- 2 tbsp lemon juice
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley chopped (optional)
Instructions
- Prepare the Vegetables: Begin by chopping the cucumber, tomatoes, and bell pepper into bite-sized pieces. Set them aside in a large bowl.
- Prepare the Greens: Wash and dry the mixed leafy greens. Add them to the bowl with the vegetables.
- Add Protein: If you are using hard-boiled eggs, peel and slice them. Add the eggs to the bowl. Alternatively, add any other protein you may be using, like grilled chicken or chickpeas.
- Prepare the Dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, lemon juice, dried oregano, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed.
- Assemble the Salad: Add the Kalamata olives and crumbled feta cheese to the salad. Pour the dressing over the ingredients and toss gently to combine.
- Serve: Garnish with fresh chopped parsley if desired. Serve immediately or store components separately for meal prep.
Notes
- Customizations: Feel free to add extra vegetables such as red onions, cucumbers, or avocado for additional flavor and texture. You can also swap out feta for goat cheese or use a dairy-free alternative.
- Make It Vegan: For a vegan version, omit the feta cheese and replace the eggs with chickpeas or tofu.
- Meal Prep: If preparing for later, store the salad components separately to maintain freshness. Keep the dressing in a separate container to add just before serving.
- Add Protein: For a heartier meal, consider adding grilled chicken, lamb, or a few slices of smoked salmon to the salad for extra protein.