Mediterranean Salad
I love Mediterranean food. And judging by the number of new Mediterranean restaurants and fast-casual places popping up (ex: Cava, Roti, The Hummus & Pita Co), I don’t think I’m the only one. Dishes filled with veggies, delicious sauces, and flavorful fresh herbs and spices are hard to beat.
Not only is Mediterranean food delicious, but it also comprises one of the healthiest and sustainable diet patterns. While there are a variety of Mediterranean cuisines (think Italian, Greek, Israeli, Lebanese etc), the commonalities include an emphasis on fresh vegetables, fruits, whole grains, legumes, nuts, seeds, and healthy fats. Numerous studies have found a link between this diet pattern and health benefits such as reduced weight, lower cardiovascular disease risk, lower depression risk and longer life span.
If you’re looking to incorporate a little Mediterranean flavor into your diet, give this simple salad a try. Filled with fiber-rich veggies, protein-packed falafel, and healthy fats thanks to hummus and olive oil — this salad will definitely leave you full and satisfied. Bonus: It doesn’t take more than 5 minutes to put together.
Mediterranean Salad
Makes 1 large salad
Ingredients:
Salad
3-4 cups mixed salad greens
3/4 cup cucumber, diced
3/4 cup cherry or plum tomatoes, chopped
2 tbsp red onion, finely chopped
1/2 cup tabouli
1/4 cup hummus
3-4 falafel (Make your own or buy pre-made version, ideally a baked version. I used Trader Joe’s Falafel Mix)
Salad Dressing
2 tbsp red wine vinegar
1 tbsp olive oil
Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
Prepare dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together red wine vinegar, olive oil, salt, and pepper
Combine salad greens, cucumber, tomatoes, red onion, and tabouli in a large salad bowl. Add dressing and toss.
Top with hummus and falafel.
