Middle Eastern Easy

Middle Eastern Chopped Salad

Name: Middle Eastern Chopped Salad
Prep time: PT25MINUTES
Total time: PT40MINUTES
Yield: 4 servings
Cuisine: Middle Eastern
Ingredients: 2 medium cucumbers (peeled, seeded, and cut into 1/2-inch pieces); 2 large tomatoes (cored, seeded, and cut into 1/2-inch pieces); 1 medium red bell pepper (stemmed, seeded, and cut into 1/2-inch pieces); 1/2 small red onion (minced); 4 large radishes (sliced thin); 1 head romaine lettuce (cut into 1-inch pieces); 2 tbsp red wine vinegar; 1 clove garlic (minced); 1/4 cup extra-virgin olive oil; 1/4 cup fresh parsley (chopped); 1 1/4 tsp salt; 1/8 tsp black pepper

A crisp, herbaceous medley with a bright garlic vinaigrette

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— (0 ratings)

⏱️ 40 minutes Total Time

🍽️ 4 Serves

175 Calories

2g Protein

10g Carbs

14g Fat

Why This Recipe Works

Salting the cucumbers and tomatoes ahead of time draws out excess moisture, ensuring the dressing stays vibrant rather than watered down. This technique results in a remarkably crisp salad that maintains its integrity even after marinating with the aromatics.

Instructions

Toss the cucumbers and tomatoes with salt in a colander. Let them drain for 15 minutes; this removes excess liquid so the salad doesn't become watery.

Whisk the vinegar, garlic, remaining salt, and pepper together in a large bowl. Slowly drizzle in the oil while whisking constantly to create a smooth, emulsified dressing.

Add the drained cucumbers and tomatoes, bell pepper, onion, radishes, and parsley to the bowl. Toss thoroughly to coat and let the mixture sit for at least 5 minutes, or up to 20 minutes, to allow the flavors to meld.

Add the lettuce and gently toss to combine just before serving. Season with additional salt and pepper to taste and serve immediately while the greens are still crisp.