Rosemary Roasted Root Vegetables

This classic Greek salad is a refreshing and colorful dish bursting with Mediterranean flavors. Perfect as a side dish or a light meal, it combines crisp vegetables, tangy feta, and briny olives with a simple and zesty dressing.

Ingredients (Serves 4)

1. For the Salad:

   • 1 cucumber, diced
   • 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved (red and yellow for extra color)
   • 1/2 red onion, sliced thinly
   • 1 yellow bell pepper, diced
   • 1/2 cup Kalamata olives, pitted
   • 1/2 cup feta cheese, cubed or crumbled
   • 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped

2. For the Dressing:

   • 1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil
   • 2 tablespoons red wine vinegar
   • 1 teaspoon dried oregano
   • Juice of 1/2 lemon
   • Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste

Preparation Steps

1. Prepare the Vegetables:

   • Wash and dice the cucumber, bell pepper, and cherry tomatoes.
   • Thinly slice the red onion.

2. Combine the Salad:

   • In a large salad bowl, combine the cucumber, tomatoes, red onion, bell pepper, and Kalamata olives.
   • Add the feta cheese cubes or crumbles on top.

3. Make the Dressing:

   • In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, red wine vinegar, lemon juice, dried oregano, salt, and pepper.

4. Toss and Garnish:

   • Drizzle the dressing over the salad and toss gently to coat all the ingredients.
   • Garnish with fresh parsley for a burst of flavor and color.

Customization Options

• Add Protein: Include grilled chicken, shrimp, or chickpeas for a heartier meal.
• Make It Vegan: Replace feta cheese with a plant-based alternative or omit it altogether.
• Add Herbs: Enhance with fresh mint or dill for an extra herbal touch.

Health Benefits

This Greek salad is packed with wholesome ingredients:

• Cucumbers and Tomatoes: Hydrating and rich in vitamins.
• Feta Cheese: A good source of calcium and protein.
• Kalamata Olives: Loaded with healthy monounsaturated fats.
• Olive Oil: Heart-healthy and full of antioxidants.

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