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Fresh Mediterranean Salad Recipe with Feta and Olives

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This vibrant Mediterranean salad combines crisp lettuce, fresh vegetables, savory olives, protein-rich chickpeas, and a bright homemade dressing for a simple, flavorful meal.

A salad with fresh vegetables, olives, lettuce, chickpeas, and a vinaigrette in a large blue and white bowl with salad tongs sticking out of it

Why You’ll Love This Salad

  • This Mediterranean chickpea salad is naturally plant-based, vegan, and gluten-free, so it suits many diets.
  • It’s easy to prepare ahead—just keep the dressing separate until serving to prevent sogginess.
  • Full of fresh vegetables, it’s an excellent way to boost your daily vegetable intake.
  • Includes a tangy, homemade Mediterranean vinaigrette to tie the flavors together.

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Ingredient Notes

Labeled ingredients including: chickpeas, cucumbers, olives, tomatoes, vinaigrette, basil, lettuce, and onion

Lettuce: I used green leaf lettuce, but any salad green—romaine, butter lettuce, or mixed greens—will work.

Chickpeas: Chickpeas add satisfying plant-based protein and a creamy texture. If using canned chickpeas, drain and rinse them well before adding.

Onion: Thinly sliced red onion adds a bright, sharp bite. If you prefer a milder flavor, soak the slices in cold water for a few minutes or use pickled onions.

Olives: A mix of Kalamata and black olives is delicious, but use whichever variety you like.

Cucumbers: Sliced cucumbers bring cool crunch and freshness. Any common cucumber variety is fine—slice or dice to your preference.

Fresh herbs: Fresh basil gives a lovely aromatic lift; swap in parsley or dill if you prefer.

Homemade dressing: The vinaigrette included here is quick and bright. If you already have a favorite store-bought dressing, it will work too.

The full ingredients and instructions appear in the recipe card below.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step by step instruction for how to make a Mediterranean Salad including: assemble ingredients, make vinaigrette, add to bowl, toss and serve

Start by whisking together the dressing so the flavors can meld while you prepare the vegetables.

Wash and chop the lettuce and vegetables as directed in the ingredient list.

In a large bowl, combine the lettuce, tomatoes, cucumbers, olives, chickpeas, red onion, and herbs.

Pour the dressing over the salad and gently toss to coat everything evenly.

Serve immediately for the best texture and flavor.

Substitutions & Additions

A close-up picture of a salad with onion, tomatoes, lettuce, olives, cucumbers, chickpeas, and basil

Chickpea alternatives: Swap chickpeas for any white bean (cannellini or great northern) or roast chickpeas for extra crunch and flavor.

Dressing: Use a store-bought Greek or vinaigrette dressing if you need to save time. Adjust acidity and sweetness to taste.

Vegetables: Feel free to replace or add vegetables—bell peppers, artichoke hearts, or shredded carrots work well. If you remove an ingredient, add another to keep a balance of texture and flavor.

Lettuce: Any salad green will do—try romaine for a firmer bite or mixed greens for variety.

Pickled onions: Quick-pickled red onions are an excellent, tangy addition if you want a bright pop of flavor.

Frequently Asked Questions

A close-up picture of a salad with onion, olives, cucumbers, tomatoes, chickpeas, basil, lettuce, and a dressing

Is this salad vegan? Yes. This recipe is fully vegan and gluten-free.

Can I make it ahead? Yes. Store the dressing separately and combine just before serving to keep the greens crisp.

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A large salad with lettuce, basil, chickpeas, tomatoes, cucumbers, olives, red onion, and a small white dish filled with dressing

Mediterranean Salad

This flavor-packed Greek salad is filled with crisp lettuce, fresh vegetables, savory olives, and a bright homemade dressing.
5 from 2 votes
Prep Time 15 mins
Total Time 15 mins
Course Main Course, Salad
Cuisine Greek, Mediterranean
Servings 4
Calories 321 kcal

Ingredients

  • 4 cups lettuce, chopped
  • 1 cup tomatoes, sliced
  • 1 cup cucumbers, sliced
  • 1 cup olives, pits removed
  • 1 cup chickpeas, rinsed
  • ½ cup red onion, sliced
  • ½ cup fresh basil, roughly chopped

Mediterranean Salad Dressing

  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 2 tablespoons lemon juice, freshly squeezed
  • 2 teaspoons agave nectar (or honey/maple for non-vegan)
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • ½ teaspoon salt
  • ½ teaspoon pepper

Instructions

  1. Whisk together all dressing ingredients in a small bowl and set aside so flavors blend.
  2. Wash and prepare the lettuce and vegetables according to the ingredient list.
  3. In a large bowl, combine the lettuce, tomatoes, cucumbers, olives, chickpeas, red onion, and basil. Pour the dressing over the salad and toss gently until everything is coated. Serve immediately.

Notes

If preparing ahead, store the dressing separately and toss just before serving to keep the salad crisp.

Nutrition

Calories: 321 kcal
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