BY CHEF KATIE MIST

Simple Chopped Mediterranean Salad

Eating a variety of foods and getting a wide assortment of nutrients is key when we want our bodies to function optimally. This salad serves up a rainbow of vegetables that are loaded with fiber, vitamins, minerals and anti-inflammatory properties. It's also the perfect salad to add any protein. Whether you're a carnivore, herbavor or a pescatarian, there is a protein option for you: Grilled or shredded chicken, grilled or poached salmon, grilled fish (halibut, tilapia, etc.) , grilled or sauteed shrimp, canned tuna or sardines, tofu or tempeh. When you combine this salad with protein and healthy fats from the dressing, it's the ultimate, nutritious meal.

Cook Time: n/a | Prep time: 15 minutes | Serves/Serving: Serves 4

Ingredients

• Extra virgin olive oil for the pan

• 1⁄4 red onion, thinly sliced

• 1 English cucumber, cut into about a 1⁄2 inch dice

• 1 yellow bell pepper, cut into about a 1⁄2 inch dice

• 1 heaping cup cherry tomatoes, halved or quartered if large

• 2 heaping tablespoons fresh dill, chopped

• 1⁄3 cup green olives (We love Castelvetrano.), sliced lengthwise into quarters

• 2 big handfuls little gems or hearts of romaine, cut into about 1⁄2 inch shreds

• 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice

• 4 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil

• 3⁄4 teaspoon dried oregano

• Salt and pepper to taste

• Grilled or shredded chicken

• Grilled or poached salmon

• Grilled fish (halibut, tilapia, etc.)

• Grilled or sauteed shrimp

• Canned tuna fish

• Sardines

• Tofu or tempeh

Instructions

Prep the onions:
1. Fill a small bowl with cold water and a few ice cubes. Add sliced onion and let sit while you prepare the remaining ingredients. This will help to mellow the sharpness of the raw onion.

2. Fill a small bowl with cold water and a few ice cubes.

3. Add sliced onion and let sit while you prepare the remaining ingredients.

4. This will help to mellow the sharpness of the raw onion.

5. Combine all ingredients in a large bowl.

6. Drain the sliced onion thoroughly and add to the bowl.

7. Toss everything together until well combined and serve.

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