Crisp Mediterranean Bliss Salad

1. Drain Vegetables

Combine the cucumber and quartered grape tomatoes with a teaspoon of salt in a colander, setting it over a bowl. Let this sit for 15 minutes. This step is crucial as it draws out excess water from the vegetables, preventing your salad from becoming soggy. By the end, the vegetables should look slightly dehydrated but still firm.

2. Prepare Dressing

In a large bowl, whisk together the extra-virgin olive oil, red wine vinegar, and minced garlic until well combined. This will be your dressing.

3. Combine Ingredients

Once your cucumber and tomatoes have finished draining, add them to the bowl along with the rinsed chickpeas, chopped kalamata olives, finely chopped red onion, and fresh parsley. Toss everything together thoroughly to ensure all the ingredients are well-coated and shiny, allowing the flavors to meld together beautifully.

4. Add Lettuce and Feta

Next, add the chopped romaine lettuce and crumbled feta cheese to the bowl. Gently toss everything again to combine.

5. Season and Serve

Finally, season your salad with salt and pepper to taste, ensuring you adjust the seasoning as needed.