This Olive, Cheese, and Herb Salad with Garlic & Herb Vinaigrette is the perfect balance of flavors and textures. Crisp romaine provides a refreshing base, while a medley of mixed olives and briny capers add a savory, tangy punch. The gouda cheese brings creamy richness, and a handful of pistachios adds a delightful crunch. Fresh dill and parsley bring an herbaceous brightness, all tossed in a zesty homemade garlic and herb vinaigrette that ties everything together.
– Romaine Lettuce: Crisp and refreshing, romaine forms the perfect base for this easy salad recipe, adding a mild, slightly sweet crunch. – Mixed Olives: A blend of tangy, briny olives brings complexity and a punch of savory flavor, adding depth to the salad. – Capers: These little bursts of brine introduce an additional layer of tartness that complements the olives and balances the richness of the cheese. – Gouda Cheese: Creamy and slightly nutty, gouda adds a smooth, indulgent texture that contrasts nicely with the crunchy salad ingredients.
– Dill: Fresh dill offers a bright, aromatic herbal note, infusing the salad with a distinctive flavor that enhances the other ingredients. – Parsley: A touch of parsley brings a fresh, clean flavor, adding a burst of color and vibrancy to the dish. – Pistachios: These crunchy, slightly sweet nuts add texture and a nutty richness, perfectly balancing the saltiness of the olives and capers. – Garlic & Herb Vinaigrette: The homemade herb dressing, with its garlic-forward punch and herbal notes, ties all the flavors together, adding a savory, zesty finish to the salad.
– Balance the Dressing: Adjust the acidity and saltiness to your taste. Add more lemon juice for extra brightness or more olive oil for a mellower flavor. – For an Umami Boost: Add a small dab of anchovy paste to the dressing. It won’t taste fishy but will add depth to the vinaigrette. – Serve as a Side or Main: Pair this salad with roasted chicken, grilled fish, or even a hearty soup for a complete meal. Or add protein like grilled shrimp or chickpeas to make it a satisfying standalone dish or healthy lunch salad. – Storage: Keep the dressing and salad separate if you’re making this ahead. The dressing will stay fresh in the fridge for up to a week in a sealed container. Shake well before using.