This Mediterranean-inspired garden salad combines fresh vegetables with a tangy herb dressing for a refreshing and flavorful dish.
In a mixing bowl, whisk together the olive oil, oregano, basil, garlic, salt, black pepper, Dijon mustard, red wine vinegar, and honey until well combined.
Whisking the dressing thoroughly ensures the ingredients emulsify, creating a smooth and consistent texture.
Prepare the vegetables by dicing the tomatoes, slicing the cucumber, and chopping the bell peppers into bite-sized pieces.
Use a sharp knife to achieve clean cuts and maintain the vegetables' crisp texture.
Combine the prepared vegetables, red onion, and kalamata olives in a large salad bowl.
Mix the vegetables gently to avoid bruising or crushing them.
Add the crumbled feta cheese to the salad bowl and toss gently to distribute evenly.
Adding the cheese last prevents it from breaking apart too much during mixing.
Drizzle the dressing over the salad and toss to coat all ingredients evenly.
Let the salad sit for a few minutes after adding the dressing to allow the flavors to meld together.
Serve the salad immediately, garnished with additional feta cheese or olives if desired.
Serve the salad chilled for a refreshing experience, especially on warm days.