Olive Salad Recipe: A Zesty Mediterranean Delight
Are you looking for a vibrant and flavorful addition to your next meal? Look no further than this olive salad recipe. This Mediterranean-inspired dish is bursting with fresh, zesty flavors and is incredibly easy to make. Whether you're a seasoned chef or a kitchen novice, this recipe is perfect for you. It's also incredibly versatile, perfect as a side dish, appetizer, or even a filling for sandwiches and wraps. Let's dive in!
Ingredients You'll Need:
This recipe uses readily available ingredients, making it perfect for a quick weeknight meal or a delightful weekend preparation.
- 1 cup Kalamata olives, pitted and halved (the salty brininess is key!)
- 1/2 cup Castelvetrano olives, pitted and halved (these add a lovely buttery texture)
- 1/2 cup green olives, pitted and sliced (for a nice balance of flavors and textures)
- 1/2 red onion, finely chopped (adds a pleasant bite)
- 1/2 cup chopped red bell pepper (for color and sweetness)
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley (for freshness and a vibrant green hue)
- 1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil (for richness and flavor, choose a good quality oil)
- 2 tablespoons red wine vinegar (adds a tangy zip)
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice (brightens the flavors beautifully)
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano (a classic Mediterranean herb)
- 1/2 teaspoon salt (adjust to your taste)
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper (freshly ground is always best)
Instructions for a Flavorful Olive Salad:
Follow these simple steps to create your delicious olive salad:
- Combine the olives: In a medium-sized bowl, gently combine the Kalamata, Castelvetrano, and green olives.
- Add the vegetables: Add the chopped red onion, red bell pepper, and parsley to the bowl.
- Whisk the dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, red wine vinegar, lemon juice, oregano, salt, and pepper.
- Dress the salad: Pour the dressing over the olive mixture and toss gently to combine. Be careful not to overmix, as you want to retain the texture of the ingredients.
- Chill and serve: Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld. This step is crucial for the best tasting olive salad! Serve chilled and enjoy!
Tips and Variations:
- Spice it up: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a little heat.
- Add some crunch: Incorporate some chopped walnuts or toasted pine nuts for added texture.
- Cheese please: Crumble some feta cheese into the salad for a salty, tangy kick.
- Make it a meal: Serve the olive salad over a bed of greens for a light and refreshing meal.
- Storage: Store leftover olive salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
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This olive salad recipe is a simple yet elegant dish that is perfect for any occasion. So why not try it today and impress your friends and family with your culinary skills? Enjoy!
