This Chopped Greek Salad is a medley of crisp textures and bold flavors, perfect for any occasion. Each bite bursts with vibrant freshness, from the crunch of iceberg lettuce to the juicy sweetness of cherry tomatoes and the crisp crunch of cucumber. Creamy, tangy feta cheese and briny olives add richness, while hearty chickpeas provide a satisfying, protein-packed twist on a classic favorite. A zesty Greek vinaigrette that seeps into every layer, coating the salad in its signature tangy herbaceousness.
– Iceberg Lettuce: Crisp, refreshing, and perfect for a chopped salad, providing the ideal crunchy base. – Cherry Tomatoes: Juicy and sweet, these little bursts of flavor add a vibrant pop of color. – Red Onion: Thinly diced for a sharp, tangy bite that balances the richness of other ingredients. – Green Onion: A milder onion flavor that adds a hint of freshness and brightens the dish. – Chickpeas: Protein-packed and hearty, they bring substance and a creamy texture to the mix.
– Cucumber: Cool, crisp, and hydrating, cucumber adds a fresh crunch to every bite. – Olives: Briny and salty, they provide a rich Mediterranean touch. Use Kalamata or your favorite variety. – Feta Cheese: Creamy and tangy, feta is the signature flavor of Greek salads and ties everything together. – Greek Vinaigrette: A zesty blend of olive oil, vinegar, garlic, and herbs that adds a bright, tangy finish to the salad.
– Dairy-Free: Replace feta cheese with a dairy-free alternative, like crumbled almond or coconut-based feta, for the same creamy tang without the dairy. – Vegan: In addition to the dairy-free feta swap, ensure your Greek vinaigrette doesn’t contain honey and use a vegan-friendly version. – Gluten-Free: This salad is naturally gluten-free as written, but double-check the label on your Greek vinaigrette to ensure no gluten-containing ingredients were used.
– Crispy Chickpeas: For a crunchier texture, roast the chickpeas in a little olive oil, salt, and pepper at 400°F for about 20 minutes. This adds a delicious crispiness that complements the fresh veggies. – Feta Alternatives: If you want to keep it dairy-free or lower in fat, you can swap feta for a plant-based cheese or leave it out entirely. Some people also enjoy using Greek yogurt as a creamy alternative.
– Marinate for Extra Flavor: If you have time, let the salad sit for 10-15 minutes before serving. This allows the flavors to meld together, and the veggies can soak up the tangy vinaigrette. – Add-Ins: For extra protein or heartiness, try adding grilled chicken, shrimp, or even some quinoa to turn this salad into a full meal. You can also toss in some roasted red peppers or sun-dried tomatoes for an extra burst of flavor.