Mediterranean Garden Delight Salsa
Immerse yourself in the vibrant flavors of the Mediterranean with this colorful and refreshing Garden Delight Salsa. The combination of juicy tomatoes, briny olives, and creamy feta creates a symphony of taste and texture, complemented by aromatic herbs and a hint of lemon. Served beautifully in a clear glass bowl and garnished with fresh cilantro leaves, this salsa is not just a treat for the palate but also a feast for the eyes. Perfect as a dip for crunchy pita chips or toasted baguette slices, this versatile recipe is an ideal addition to gatherings, picnics, or casual dinners. Remember to let it chill in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours to allow the flavors to meld and intensify, ensuring each bite bursts with Mediterranean goodness.
N/A
Servings
N/A
Calories
10
Ingredients
Ingredients
Olive oil
2 tablespoons (none)
Garlic cloves
2 (minced)
Lemon juice
1 teaspoon (freshly squeezed)
Large tomatoes
3 (chopped)
Black olives
1/2 cup (chopped)
Red onion
1/2 (finely chopped)
Feta cheese
1/2 cup (crumbled)
Cilantro
1 tablespoon (chopped)
Salt
to taste (none)
Pepper
to taste (none)
Instructions
1
In a large mixing bowl, combine the olive oil, minced garlic, and lemon juice, stirring until well blended.
2
Add the chopped tomatoes, black olives, finely chopped red onion, crumbled feta cheese, and chopped cilantro to the bowl.
3
Mix all ingredients gently until evenly distributed, ensuring the feta remains intact for texture.
4
Season the salsa with salt and pepper to taste, adjusting the seasoning as desired.
5
Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or a lid and refrigerate for at least 2 hours to allow the flavors to meld and develop.
6
Before serving, give the salsa a gentle stir and transfer to a clear glass bowl. Garnish with whole cilantro leaves for a beautiful presentation.
7
Serve chilled with pita chips or toasted baguette slices.
Nutrition Information
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Mediterranean Garden Delight Salsa?
It is a refreshing and vibrant dip featuring tomatoes, olives, feta cheese, and aromatic herbs in a Mediterranean style.
What are the main ingredients?
The main ingredients include olive oil, garlic, lemon juice, tomatoes, black olives, red onion, feta cheese, and cilantro.
How long should the salsa be refrigerated?
The salsa should be chilled in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours to allow the flavors to meld and intensify.
What are the best serving suggestions?
This salsa is perfect when served as a dip with crunchy pita chips or toasted baguette slices.
Can I use bottled lemon juice?
While freshly squeezed lemon juice is recommended for the best flavor, bottled juice can be used as a substitute.
How should I garnish the salsa?
Garnish the dish with whole fresh cilantro leaves before serving in a clear glass bowl.
Is this salsa considered healthy?
Yes, it is a healthy, vegetable-based appetizer made with fresh ingredients and heart-healthy olive oil.
What kind of olives does this recipe call for?
The recipe specifically calls for 1/2 cup of chopped black olives.
How should the garlic be prepared?
The garlic should be finely minced before being stirred into the olive oil and lemon juice.
How many tomatoes do I need for this recipe?
You will need 3 large tomatoes that have been chopped.
Is this salsa recipe spicy?
No, this salsa is savory and tangy rather than spicy, focusing on Mediterranean herbs and lemon.
Can I substitute the red onion with another type?
Yes, you can use shallots or a white onion, though red onion is preferred for its color and mild flavor.
Is the Mediterranean Garden Delight Salsa gluten-free?
The salsa itself is gluten-free; just ensure you serve it with gluten-free chips or bread if needed.
How do I maintain the texture of the feta cheese?
Mix all ingredients gently to ensure the crumbled feta remains intact for a better texture.
Can I prepare this dish a day in advance?
Yes, preparing it in advance allows even more time for the flavors to develop in the refrigerator.
Can I use dried cilantro instead of fresh?
Fresh cilantro is best for the intended flavor and presentation, but a smaller amount of dried cilantro can work in a pinch.
Do the tomatoes need to be peeled before chopping?
No, peeling is not necessary; simply chop them with the skin on for added texture.
What is a good substitute if I do not like cilantro?
Fresh parsley or fresh basil are excellent Mediterranean-friendly alternatives to cilantro.
Does the recipe include salt and pepper?
Yes, the instructions suggest seasoning the salsa with salt and pepper to your personal taste.
Can I add other vegetables like cucumbers?
Yes, adding chopped cucumbers would complement the Mediterranean profile of the salsa perfectly.
What is the recommended serving bowl for this dish?
A clear glass bowl is recommended to highlight the colorful layers and ingredients of the salsa.
What type of olive oil is best for this recipe?
Extra virgin olive oil is ideal for its rich flavor in raw preparations like this salsa.
Is this recipe suitable for vegans?
The recipe contains feta cheese; to make it vegan, you would need to use a plant-based feta alternative.
How much olive oil is used in the salsa?
The recipe requires 2 tablespoons of olive oil.
Can I use yellow onions instead of red?
Yes, though yellow onions have a stronger bite than red onions when served raw.
Does the salsa need to be served cold?
Yes, it is designed to be a chilled appetizer for maximum refreshment.
How much feta cheese is needed?
The recipe calls for 1/2 cup of crumbled feta cheese.
Can the recipe be easily doubled for parties?
Absolutely, the ingredient measurements can be doubled to accommodate larger groups.
Why should I chill the salsa for 2 hours?
Chilling allows the acidity of the lemon and the aromatics of the garlic to penetrate the other ingredients.
What makes this salsa "Mediterranean"?
The combination of olive oil, feta, black olives, and fresh tomatoes defines its Mediterranean flavor profile.