Marinated Vegetable Salad

 

Craving a burst of fresh flavors and vibrant colors? Look no further! This Marinated Vegetable Salad is a delightful medley of crisp veggies, tangy dressing, and creamy feta. It’s perfect for summer barbecues, potlucks, or a light and healthy lunch. Inspired by Mediterranean cuisine, this salad is a feast for the eyes and the palate. Let’s dive into this easy and irresistible recipe!

Why You’ll Love This Marinated Vegetable Salad

This Marinated Vegetable Salad isn’t just another salad; it’s a culinary experience! Here’s why you’ll absolutely adore it:

• Quick & Easy: Ready in under 30 minutes!
• Bursting with Flavor: A tangy, herby dressing elevates simple veggies.
• Nutritious & Delicious: Packed with vitamins, minerals, and healthy fats.
• Versatile: Perfect as a side dish or a light meal.
• Colorful & Appealing: A visual delight that brightens any table.
• Budget-Friendly: Uses readily available and affordable ingredients.
• Great for Meal Prep: Flavors meld beautifully over time.
• Effortless Elegance: Simple enough for weeknights, impressive enough for guests.

The aroma alone will fill your kitchen with a refreshing, summery scent. Plus, it’s simple enough for even the most novice cook to master!

Ingredients Needed

Let’s gather the ingredients for this vibrant Marinated Vegetable Salad. Quality ingredients make all the difference!

• Olive Oil: 1/2 cup (120ml) – Choose a good quality extra virgin olive oil for the best flavor.
• Apple Cider Vinegar: 1/4 cup (60ml) – Adds a tangy kick.
• Lemon Juice: 2 tablespoons (30ml) – Freshly squeezed is always best!
• Honey: 1 tablespoon (15ml) – Provides a touch of sweetness to balance the acidity.
• Dried Oregano: 1 teaspoon (5ml) – Earthy and aromatic.
• Salt: 1/2 teaspoon (2.5ml) – Enhances the flavors.
• Black Pepper: 1/4 teaspoon (1.25ml) – Adds a touch of spice.
• Red Bell Pepper: 1 medium, seeded and chopped – Adds sweetness and color.
• Yellow Bell Pepper: 1 medium, seeded and chopped – More sweetness and color!
• Cucumber: 1 medium, peeled, seeded, and chopped – Provides a refreshing crunch.
• Cherry Tomatoes: 1 pint (about 2 cups), halved – Adds juicy bursts of flavor.
• Red Onion: 1/2 medium, thinly sliced – Adds a sharp, pungent bite.
• Kalamata Olives: 1/2 cup, pitted and halved – Provides a salty, briny flavor.
• Feta Cheese: 4 ounces (113g), crumbled – Adds a creamy, salty element.

For the best results, select fresh, vibrant bell peppers that are firm to the touch. For the dried oregano, consider lightly toasting it in a dry pan for a minute to unlock its fragrant oils. You can often find excellent feta cheese at local cheese shops or specialty grocery stores.

YOU MIGHT LOVE: Simple Apple Arugula Salad – A refreshing salad with a sweet and peppery twist.

Essential Equipment List

Having the right tools makes preparing this Marinated Vegetable Salad a breeze!

• • Large Bowl: Essential for mixing all the ingredients together.
  • Whisk: Needed to emulsify the dressing.
  • Measuring Cups and Spoons: Accuracy ensures the right balance of flavors.
  • Knife: For chopping the vegetables. A sharp chef’s knife is ideal.
  • Cutting Board: Protects your countertops while you chop.

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• Refrigerator: Crucial for chilling the salad and allowing the flavors to meld.

A good quality knife makes chopping vegetables quicker and safer. No whisk? A fork will work in a pinch. And if you don’t have measuring spoons, use your best judgment, tasting as you go!

Recipe Details

• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Chill Time: 30 minutes (minimum)
• Total Time: 50 minutes
• Servings: 6
• Difficulty: Easy

Scale this recipe up for a large gathering or halve it for a personal lunch. It’s incredibly adaptable!

Step-by-Step Instructions

Follow these easy steps to create a show-stopping Marinated Vegetable Salad.

Prepare the Dressing

1. In a large bowl, whisk together the olive oil, apple cider vinegar, lemon juice, honey, oregano, salt, and pepper until well combined. This creates the base for your vibrant flavors.
2. Taste and adjust seasonings as needed. Do you prefer it sweeter? Add a touch more honey. More tang? A splash of lemon juice.

Combine the Vegetables

1. Add the red bell pepper, yellow bell pepper, cucumber, cherry tomatoes, red onion, and Kalamata olives to the bowl with the dressing.
2. Toss gently but thoroughly to ensure all the vegetables are evenly coated with the dressing.

Marinate the Salad

1. Cover the bowl tightly with plastic wrap or a lid.
2. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, or up to 24 hours. This allows the flavors to meld together beautifully. The longer it marinates, the more flavorful it becomes!

Final Touches & Serving

1. Before serving, gently toss the salad again to redistribute the dressing.
2. Sprinkle the crumbled feta cheese evenly over the top of the salad.
3. Serve chilled and enjoy!

If the dressing seems too thick after chilling, add a teaspoon or two of water or olive oil to loosen it up. Don’t over-toss the salad before serving to keep the vegetables crisp.

CHECK OUT: Fall Harvest Pasta Salad – A comforting salad perfect for the cooler months.

Tips for Success

Here are some expert tips to ensure your Marinated Vegetable Salad is a resounding success!

• Don’t Over-Marinate: While marinating enhances flavor, too long can make the vegetables soggy. 24 hours is the maximum recommended time.
• Use High-Quality Olive Oil: The flavor of the olive oil shines through in this recipe, so choose a good one.
• Taste and Adjust: Don’t be afraid to adjust the dressing to your liking. Add more honey for sweetness, lemon juice for tang, or herbs for depth.
• Chill Thoroughly: Chilling the salad allows the flavors to meld together and the vegetables to crisp up.
• Add Fresh Herbs: A sprinkle of fresh parsley, basil, or mint before serving can elevate the salad even further.

A microplane is perfect for zesting citrus quickly and easily. For a time-saving hack, use pre-chopped vegetables, but fresh is always best for flavor and texture.

Variations & Substitutions

Want to customize your Marinated Vegetable Salad? Here are some delicious variations and substitutions!

• Different Cheese: Try goat cheese, mozzarella, or even a vegan feta alternative.
• Add Protein: Grilled chicken, chickpeas, or white beans add a hearty boost.
• Spice it Up: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the dressing for a kick.
• Different Vinegar: Balsamic vinegar adds a richer, sweeter flavor.

If you are looking for a vegan option, maple syrup can be substituted for honey. For a gluten-free version, simply ensure all your ingredients are gluten-free.

Serving Suggestions & Pairings with Marinated Vegetable Salad

This Marinated Vegetable Salad is incredibly versatile. Here are some serving suggestions and delicious pairings.

• Grilled Protein: Perfect alongside grilled chicken, fish, or tofu.
• Crusty Bread: Serve with a side of warm, crusty bread for soaking up the delicious dressing.
• Summer BBQ: A refreshing addition to any summer barbecue spread.
• Light Lunch: Enjoy as a light and healthy lunch on its own.

Pair this salad with a refreshing mint lemonade or iced tea. Its vibrant flavors make it a perfect addition to any summer feast.

Health Benefits

This Marinated Vegetable Salad is not only delicious but also packed with health benefits! The variety of vegetables provides a wide range of vitamins and minerals. Olive oil is a source of healthy fats, and the feta cheese provides calcium and protein. Red bell peppers are rich in Vitamin C, and cucumber is hydrating.

Storage & Reheating

Proper storage ensures your Marinated Vegetable Salad stays fresh and flavorful. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors will actually meld together even more overnight! It’s best enjoyed cold, so no reheating is necessary. However, if the olive oil solidifies in the fridge, you can let it sit at room temperature for a bit before serving.

Frequently Asked Questions

Got questions? We’ve got answers! Here are some frequently asked questions about making the perfect Marinated Vegetable Salad.

Can I make this salad ahead of time?

Absolutely! In fact, it’s even better when made ahead of time, as the flavors have more time to meld. Just be sure to store it properly in the refrigerator.

Can I use different vegetables?

Of course! Feel free to add or substitute your favorite vegetables. Zucchini, carrots, and artichoke hearts would all be great additions.

How do I prevent the salad from becoming soggy?

Avoid over-marinating the salad and be sure to drain any excess liquid before serving. Adding the feta cheese just before serving also helps to keep it fresh.

Can I freeze this salad?

Freezing is not recommended, as the vegetables will become mushy when thawed. It’s best enjoyed fresh.

Can I make this vegan?

Yes! Simply substitute the honey with maple syrup or agave and use a vegan feta alternative.

Nutritional Information

• Calories: 150
• Total Fat: 10g
• Saturated Fat: 1g
• Cholesterol: 0mg
• Sodium: 200mg
• Total Carbohydrate: 15g
• Dietary Fiber: 5g
• Total Sugars: 8g
• Protein: 3g

These are estimates. Exact stats need a nutrition calculator. Carbs come from wholesome vegetables.

More Delicious Dishes to Explore

Craving more vibrant and flavorful salad recipes? Check out these gems!

• Cucumber Dill Salad – A refreshing and light salad perfect for a hot day.
• Mediterranean Chickpea Feta Salad – A hearty and flavorful salad packed with protein and healthy fats.
• Watermelon Salad with Feta – A sweet and savory combination that’s perfect for summer.

Conclusion

This Marinated Vegetable Salad is a fast, flavorful, and vibrant dish that’s sure to impress. Whip it up tonight and tag us with your masterpiece! We are excited to see your unique creations.

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