Cheesy Italian Tomato And Olive Salad
A vibrant, cheesy Italian salad featuring cherry tomatoes, mozzarella, black olives, and a light Italian dressing—perfect for a refreshing, easy-to-make appetizer or side dish.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Toss the cherry tomatoes, cubed mozzarella, and sliced black olives together in a bowl.
- Add the fat-free Italian dressing and toss to coat evenly.
- Serve chilled on a bed of romaine lettuce.
Tips & Substitutions
For a more vibrant flavor, consider adding some fresh basil or parsley to your salad. If you don't have cherry tomatoes, diced regular tomatoes can work, but be sure to drain excess moisture. You can substitute mozzarella with feta for a tangier taste. This salad can be served as a light appetizer or paired with heartier dishes like Four Cheese Vegetable Lasagna (Low-Fat) for a complete meal.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this salad chilled on a bed of romaine lettuce for a refreshing appetizer. It pairs beautifully with grilled chicken or fish for a complete meal. For a delightful finish, consider serving it alongside Tarall (Italian Sugar Cookies) for a sweet contrast after your meal.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. The salad is best enjoyed fresh, but if you need to reheat it, do so gently in the microwave to avoid melting the cheese too much. Toss it with a little extra dressing before serving again to refresh the flavors.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Cheesy Italian Tomato And Olive Salad contains roughly 139 calories, with 6g protein, 6g carbohydrates, and 10g fat. It is a good source of calcium (14% of the Daily Value) and protein (12% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I add other vegetables to this salad?
Absolutely! Feel free to add ingredients like diced cucumbers, bell peppers, or even artichoke hearts for added crunch and flavor. Just make sure to adjust the dressing accordingly to maintain balance.
Is this salad suitable for meal prep?
Yes, this salad can be part of your meal prep! Just keep the dressing separate until you're ready to eat to prevent the salad from becoming soggy. Pack the ingredients in individual containers for easy grab-and-go options.
How can I make this salad vegan?
To make this salad vegan, simply omit the mozzarella cheese or replace it with a plant-based cheese alternative. The other ingredients are naturally vegan-friendly, making this a versatile salad for various diets.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).