Old World Salad
A fresh, simple salad featuring torn lettuce, ripe tomato, onion, and black olives, dressed with olive oil and seasonings. Perfect as a light appetizer or side dish.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Combine torn lettuce, quartered tomato, and sliced onion in a bowl.
- Add black olives, salt, and pepper; toss to combine.
- Drizzle with olive oil and vinegar; toss again to coat evenly.
Tips & Substitutions
For a more robust flavor, consider adding crumbled feta cheese or artichoke hearts to the salad. If you prefer a milder onion flavor, soak the sliced onion in cold water for about 10 minutes before adding it to the mix. You can also substitute black olives with green olives or even capers for a different twist. Drizzle with Fresh Tomato Vinaigrette for added zest.
Serving Suggestions
This Old World Salad pairs beautifully with Marinated Swordfish or grilled chicken for a hearty meal. For a vegetarian option, serve it alongside Rosemary Potatoes or a warm grain dish. It’s also a great side for Mediterranean recipes, making it versatile for any occasion.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Keep the dressing separate until you're ready to serve to prevent the salad from becoming soggy. If you wish to reheat any components, like grilled vegetables, do so gently in a microwave or skillet to maintain texture.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Old World Salad contains roughly 128 calories, with 2g protein, 18g carbohydrates, and 5g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (31% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 642mg per serving (28% 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 protein to this salad?
Absolutely! Grilled chicken, shrimp, or even chickpeas can enhance the dish's nutritional value and make it more filling. If you're looking for a vegetarian option, consider adding some cooked quinoa or beans for a protein boost.
What type of olives work best for this salad?
While black olives are traditional, you can use green olives, Kalamata olives, or any variety you prefer. Each type will bring a distinct flavor to the salad, so feel free to experiment to find your favorite!
How can I make this salad more colorful?
To add more color, consider incorporating bell peppers, shredded carrots, or even radishes. Cherry tomatoes can also provide a burst of color and sweetness. Adding a variety of vegetables not only enhances the appearance but also boosts the nutritional profile of your salad.
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).