This Mediterranean Salad with Fresh Mozzarella is a refreshing, vibrant dish packed with wholesome ingredients. Perfect for a light lunch, side dish, or appetizer, this salad features crisp vegetables, creamy mozzarella, and a tangy dressing that brings everything together. It’s a simple, quick recipe that delivers big on flavor.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and easy: This recipe comes together in under 20 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights or last-minute gatherings.
- Healthy and wholesome: Packed with fresh vegetables, high-quality cheese, and olive oil, it’s a nutrient-rich option.
- Versatile: It works well as a main course, side dish, or even a light snack.
- Customizable: Add your favorite Mediterranean ingredients or swap in alternatives to suit your preferences.
Ingredients
(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)
- Fresh mozzarella, cubed or in small balls (bocconcini or ciliegine)
- Cherry or grape tomatoes, halved
- Cucumber, diced
- Red onion, thinly sliced
- Kalamata olives, pitted and halved
- Fresh parsley or basil, chopped
- Olive oil
- Lemon juice
- Red wine vinegar
- Garlic, minced
- Dried oregano
- Salt and pepper to taste
Directions
- In a large salad bowl, combine the fresh mozzarella, halved cherry tomatoes, diced cucumber, sliced red onion, and Kalamata olives.
- In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, red wine vinegar, minced garlic, oregano, salt, and pepper to create the dressing.
- Pour the dressing over the salad and toss gently to coat all the ingredients.
- Garnish with freshly chopped parsley or basil.
- Serve immediately or let the salad chill in the refrigerator for 10–15 minutes to enhance the flavors.
Servings and Timing
- Servings: 4–6
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 15 minutes
Variations
- Add protein: Include grilled chicken, shrimp, or chickpeas for a heartier meal.
- Cheese alternatives: Swap mozzarella with feta or goat cheese for a tangier twist.
- Additional veggies: Add bell peppers, artichoke hearts, or roasted red peppers for extra color and flavor.
- Grains: Toss in cooked quinoa or farro for a filling grain salad.
- Dressing twist: Substitute the lemon-vinegar dressing with a creamy tzatziki or hummus-based dressing.
Storage/Reheating
- Storage: Store leftover salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. For best results, keep the dressing separate and mix before serving.
- Reheating: This salad is best enjoyed cold or at room temperature, so reheating isn’t necessary.
FAQs
1. Can I make this salad ahead of time?
Yes, you can prep the ingredients a few hours in advance and store them separately. Toss with dressing just before serving.
2. Can I use store-bought dressing?
Absolutely! A good-quality Mediterranean or Italian dressing works well if you’re short on time.
3. What type of cucumber is best?
English cucumbers or Persian cucumbers are ideal because they’re less watery and have fewer seeds.
4. Can I omit the olives?
Yes, if you’re not a fan of olives, simply leave them out or substitute with capers for a similar briny flavor.
5. Is fresh mozzarella necessary?
Fresh mozzarella adds a creamy texture, but you can use shredded mozzarella or another cheese if needed.
6. Can I make this salad vegan?
Yes, just omit the cheese or replace it with a plant-based alternative.
7. How do I prevent the salad from becoming watery?
Remove excess moisture from the cucumbers and tomatoes by patting them dry with paper towels before assembling the salad.
8. What herbs work best in this salad?
Fresh parsley, basil, or dill are excellent choices for enhancing the Mediterranean flavors.
9. Can I use different types of tomatoes?
Yes, heirloom tomatoes or any small, sweet variety will work beautifully.
10. How do I serve this salad?
Serve it as a side dish with grilled meats, fish, or pita bread, or enjoy it on its own as a light, refreshing meal.
Conclusion
This Mediterranean Salad with Fresh Mozzarella is a perfect blend of simplicity and flavor. Its vibrant ingredients, easy preparation, and versatility make it a must-try recipe for any occasion. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or need a quick meal idea, this salad is sure to impress. Give it a try, and savor the fresh, delicious taste of the Mediterranean
Mediterranean Salad with Fresh Mozzarella
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Salad
- Method: Tossing
- Cuisine: Mediterranean
Description
Savor the fresh flavors of the Mediterranean with this Mediterranean Salad with Fresh Mozzarella, featuring ripe cherry tomatoes, crisp arugula, creamy mozzarella, and briny olives. Perfect as a light lunch, side dish, or a refreshing appetizer!
Ingredients
- 4 cups fresh arugula
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1/2 cup fresh mozzarella cubes
- 1/4 cup kalamata olives
- 1/4 cup homemade croutons
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tbsp balsamic glaze
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
- Combine arugula, tomatoes, mozzarella, and olives in a large bowl.
- Drizzle with olive oil and balsamic glaze. Season with salt and pepper.
- Add croutons just before serving to keep them crisp.
Category: Salad
Cuisine: Mediterranean
Keywords: fresh mozzarella salad, Mediterranean salad recipe
Instructions
- Prepare the Salad Base:
- In a large bowl, add the arugula as the base. Top with halved cherry tomatoes, fresh mozzarella cubes, kalamata olives, and shaved Parmesan cheese.
- Make the Dressing:
- In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, balsamic glaze, oregano, salt, and pepper until well combined.
- Assemble and Serve:
- Drizzle the dressing over the salad and toss gently to coat all the ingredients.
- Add the croutons just before serving to maintain their crunch.
- Serve immediately, garnished with extra Parmesan or a sprinkle of oregano if desired
Notes
- Substitute arugula with mixed greens or spinach if preferred.
- Add a handful of roasted red peppers or artichoke hearts for extra Mediterranean flair.
- This salad pairs beautifully with grilled chicken or fish for a complete meal.
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