Big Beautiful Summer Salad

Summer has never looked so beautiful! This vibrant salad is a fresh celebration of the season, bursting with colorful cherry tomatoes, crisp cucumber, and a medley of fresh herbs. With creamy feta and goat cheese, crunchy pecans, and a tangy dressing, every bite is a delight for the senses.

Ingredients

• 2 cups mixed greens (arugula, spinach, lettuce)
• 4 cups cherry tomatoes, halved
• 2 cups cucumber, sliced
• 2 cups Kalamata olives, pitted
• 1 cup crumbled feta cheese
• 1 cup chopped red onion
• 1 cup chopped fresh parsley
• 1 cup chopped fresh mint
• 1/2 cup chopped pecans
• 1/2 cup crumbled goat cheese (optional)
• 1/4 cup olive oil
• 2 tbsp white wine vinegar
• 1 tsp Dijon mustard
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

In a large bowl, combine the mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, cucumber slices, Kalamata olives, crumbled feta cheese, chopped red onion, chopped parsley, and chopped mint. In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, white wine vinegar, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper to make the dressing.

Pour the dressing over the salad and toss to coat.

Top with chopped pecans and crumbled goat cheese (if using). Toss again gently to combine.

Serve immediately, or cover and refrigerate for up to 2 hours before serving.

Divide the salad among 10 plates or bowls and serve.

Notes

For the freshest flavor, use a variety of mixed greens that include arugula for its peppery bite and spinach for its mellow taste.

Cherry tomatoes should be at room temperature for easier halving, and pat them dry with a paper towel to remove excess moisture before adding to the salad.

Use a mandoline to slice the cucumber thinly and evenly for a beautiful presentation.

Kalamata olives add a meaty, savory flavor, but feel free to substitute with other olives if you prefer.

For an added layer of flavor, toast the pecans in a 350°F oven for 5-7 minutes or until fragrant before chopping.

Crumbled goat cheese adds a tangy, creamy element, but omit if you’re looking for a lighter option.

Whisk the dressing just before pouring over the salad to ensure the flavors stay bright and vibrant.

Make the salad up to 2 hours ahead of serving, but wait to add the pecans and goat cheese until just before serving to preserve their texture.

This salad is perfect for a crowd – simply multiply the ingredients based on the number of servings you need!

Nutrional Value

• Calories: 270
• Total Fat: 19g
• Saturated Fat: 5g
• Cholesterol: 15mg
• Sodium: 250mg
• Total Carbohydrates: 20g
• Dietary Fiber: 4g
• Sugars: 8g
• Protein: 10g