Israeli Salad
A great salad is one that is colorful and tasty, filled with bright veggies that offer delicious crunch all topped with a dressing that pulls everything together. Salads are not limited to side dishes either; they’re great as a meal when the right ingredients are added to make it hearty and satisfying. We love our version of Israeli salad for all of these reasons: it’s bright, flavorful, and super satisfying. A salad of fresh veggies with a simple lemon and herb dressing is exactly what we’re looking for in a refreshing side dish.
This was the perfect recipe for an afternoon lunch with good friends. Everyone brought a little something to share, and this salad was the perfect side dish. Bell peppers, cucumbers, tomatoes, and red onion are chopped up and tossed together, then tossed with a simple dressing and brightened with a splash of fresh lemon juice. Alone this is great, but when we want a salad that makes a satisfying and whole meal, we’ll add a little protein: chicken is great, or even shrimp. This is a salad that gets even better after a day or two in the refrigerator, with the dressing really soaking into the veggies and taking on even more flavor.
Our Israeli salad is such a crowd pleaser and if we’re lucky enough to have leftovers, we pack some in a mason jar for lunch the next day. It’s so light and refreshing, just what we need on a warm summer day, but this is great at any time of year. And herbs like parsley or mint add extra brightness, so toss a little of this in as well, if your crowd enjoys those flavors. A crisp and flavorful salad is a great way to sneak in a few more veggies into our daily meals, and when food looks and tastes this good, we pretty much want to eat it all the time!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This Israeli salad is not only visually appealing with its vibrant colors, but it’s also bursting with flavor and incredibly refreshing. It’s the perfect side dish for any meal and can easily be turned into a main course by adding your favorite protein. Plus, it’s a healthy way to incorporate more vegetables into your diet.
Kitchen Equipment You’ll Need
- Cutting board
- Chef’s knife
- Mixing bowl
- Measuring spoons
- Salad tongs
Ingredients
- 2 large tomatoes, diced
- 1 large cucumber, diced
- ½ medium red onion, diced
- 2 bell peppers (any color), diced
- Juice from 1 lemon (to taste)
- 1 ½ tablespoons Italian seasoning
- 4 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Step-by-Step Instructions
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the diced tomatoes, cucumber, red onion, and bell peppers.
- Add the Italian seasoning, lemon juice, and olive oil to the bowl.
- Toss everything together gently to ensure the vegetables are evenly coated with the dressing.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Your Israeli salad is ready to serve. Alternatively, refrigerate it for a few hours to let the flavors meld together.
Tips for Success
- Use fresh, ripe tomatoes for the best flavor.
- Adjust the amount of lemon juice according to your taste preference.
- Let the salad sit in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before serving to enhance the flavors.
Additional Tips or Variations
- Consider adding fresh herbs like parsley or mint for an extra layer of flavor.
- Add protein such as grilled chicken or shrimp to make it a complete meal.
- For a spicy kick, include a diced jalapeño.
Nutritional Highlights (Per Serving)
Each serving of this Israeli salad is packed with vitamins and nutrients, thanks to the fresh vegetables. It’s low in calories, making it a perfect choice for a healthy diet.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I make this salad ahead of time?
Yes, this salad can be made a day in advance. In fact, the flavors improve after sitting in the refrigerator.
What can I serve with Israeli salad?
Israeli salad pairs well with grilled meats, pita bread, or as a topping for falafel.
How long does Israeli salad last in the fridge?
It can last up to 3 days in the refrigerator when stored in an airtight container.
Conclusion
If you’re looking for a refreshing, vibrant, and delicious salad, this Israeli salad is a must-try. It’s simple to make, packed with flavor, and a great way to enjoy fresh vegetables. Give it a try and let us know how it turns out in the comments below!
