Mediterranean Salad from Boston Pizza features fresh mixed greens, cucumbers, ripe tomatoes, Kalamata olives, red onions, and crumbled feta cheese, tossed in a zesty lemon-oregano vinaigrette, offering a vibrant and refreshing blend of crisp and tangy flavors.
Equipments
- Salad bowl
- Chef’s knife
- Cutting board
- Salad spinner
- Mixing bowl
- Whisk
- Measuring spoons
- Serving tongs
Ingredients
- Mixed greens
- Cucumbers
- Ripe tomatoes
- Kalamata olives
- Red onions
- Feta cheese
- Lemon juice
- Olive oil
- Dried oregano
- Salt
- Black pepper
Use fresh mixed greens and ripe tomatoes for the best texture and flavor in your Mediterranean Salad. Kalamata olives should be pitted and rinsed if you prefer a less salty taste. Red onions can be soaked briefly in cold water to reduce their sharpness. When making the lemon-oregano vinaigrette, measure lemon juice and olive oil precisely to balance acidity and richness. You can recreate the Mediterranean Salad from Boston Pizza's copycat menu by combining these key ingredients and following the suggested preparation methods for an authentic and vibrant result.
Instructions
- Wash and dry mixed greens using a salad spinner.
- Slice cucumbers, ripe tomatoes, and red onions on a cutting board.
- In a mixing bowl, whisk together lemon juice, olive oil, dried oregano, salt, and black pepper to make the vinaigrette.
- In a salad bowl, combine mixed greens, sliced cucumbers, tomatoes, Kalamata olives, and red onions.
- Drizzle the lemon-oregano vinaigrette over the salad.
- Toss ingredients gently with serving tongs to evenly coat.
- Sprinkle crumbled feta cheese on top.
- Serve immediately.
Substitution
The Mediterranean Salad from Boston Pizza copycat menu can be easily customized by substituting Kalamata olives with green olives or capers if you have a milder palate. If fresh lemon juice is unavailable, a splash of white wine vinegar or apple cider vinegar can replicate the tanginess in the lemon-oregano vinaigrette. You can replace feta cheese with goat cheese or a dairy-free alternative to accommodate dietary restrictions without losing the creamy texture. When using a chef's knife, ensure your cucumbers and tomatoes are cut uniformly to maintain a balanced texture throughout the salad. Mix your dressing in a separate bowl to control the seasoning precisely before tossing with your greens.
Tips
Make sure to thoroughly wash and dry your mixed greens using a salad spinner to prevent a soggy salad. When slicing cucumbers, tomatoes, and red onions, use a sharp chef's knife on a stable cutting board for clean cuts and even texture. Whisk the lemon-oregano vinaigrette ingredients well in a mixing bowl to fully blend the flavors and achieve a balanced tangy taste. Your salad will benefit from gently tossing with serving tongs to evenly coat without bruising the fresh vegetables.
Nutritions
Mediterranean Salad from Boston Pizza offers a nutrient-rich choice, packed with vitamins A, C, and K from mixed greens, cucumbers, and ripe tomatoes. Kalamata olives and feta cheese provide healthy fats and protein, contributing to heart health and muscle function. The lemon-oregano vinaigrette adds antioxidants and anti-inflammatory benefits from olive oil and herbs. You can enjoy this salad as a low-calorie, fiber-rich option that supports digestion and overall wellness.
Storage
Store leftover Mediterranean Salad in an airtight container to maintain freshness and prevent the vinaigrette from making the greens soggy. Keep the salad refrigerated at or below 40degF (4degC) and consume within 1-2 days for the best taste and texture. To preserve the crispness, you can also store the vinaigrette separately and toss it with the salad just before serving with your next meal.
Variation or Alternatives
Swap Kalamata olives with green olives or sun-dried tomatoes for a milder or richer flavor. Use fresh oregano instead of dried to enhance the herbaceous notes in your lemon-oregano vinaigrette. Replace red onions with thinly sliced shallots or scallions for a subtler onion taste. You can also add toasted pine nuts or sliced almonds to introduce a satisfying crunch and nutty depth to your Mediterranean Salad.
Allergies
The Mediterranean Salad from Boston Pizza contains feta cheese, which may trigger allergic reactions in individuals sensitive to dairy or lactose intolerant. Kalamata olives and lemon juice, while generally safe, might cause issues for those with specific olive or citrus allergies. Your best option is to check with the restaurant about ingredient substitutions to avoid allergic reactions.
Why this recipe?
Boston Pizza's Mediterranean Salad appeals to health-conscious diners due to its fresh ingredients like cucumbers, tomatoes, olives, and feta cheese, providing a flavorful yet nutritious option. The salad's balanced combination of healthy fats, fiber, and protein supports a satisfying meal that enhances your wellness goals. Recreating this dish at home allows you to control ingredient quality, customize flavors, and enjoy a restaurant-quality salad at a lower cost. Your effort to make a copycat version ensures freshness and the ability to tweak the recipe to suit personal dietary preferences.