keto Italian veggie salad

By deiv3 on September 1, 2024

Ingredients:

1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved: These little gems add a burst of sweetness and juiciness to the salad.
1 cucumber, diced: Cucumbers bring a refreshing crunch and hydration to the dish.
1 bell pepper, diced (any color): Bell peppers contribute a mild sweetness and a pop of color.
1/2 red onion, thinly sliced: Red onions add a sharp, slightly sweet flavor that complements the other ingredients.
1/4 cup black olives, sliced: Black olives introduce a salty, rich flavor that enhances the Mediterranean essence.
1/4 cup green olives, sliced: Green olives provide a slightly tangier flavor, balancing the sweetness of the tomatoes and bell peppers.
1/4 cup fresh basil, chopped: Basil infuses the salad with a fragrant, aromatic quality that ties all the flavors together.
1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil: This is the base of the dressing, adding richness and healthy fats.
2 tbsp red wine vinegar: Adds acidity to the dressing, which helps balance the richness of the olive oil.
1 tsp Italian seasoning: A blend of dried herbs like oregano, basil, and thyme that enhances the salad's flavor profile.
Salt and pepper to taste: These basic seasonings bring out the natural flavors of the vegetables.
Optional: 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese: Adds a savory, umami kick and a touch of creaminess to the salad.

Instructions:

Prepare the Vegetables: Begin by prepping your vegetables. Halve the cherry tomatoes, dice the cucumber and bell pepper, and thinly slice the red onion. Place all these vegetables in a large mixing bowl. Add the sliced black and green olives to the bowl as well. The combination of these ingredients provides a balance of textures and flavors, from the crunch of the cucumber to the briny burst of olives.
Make the Dressing: In a small bowl or a jar with a lid, combine the extra virgin olive oil, red wine vinegar, and Italian seasoning. Whisk or shake well until the dressing is emulsified. Taste and season with salt and pepper according to your preference. The dressing should have a harmonious balance of tanginess from the vinegar and richness from the olive oil.
Toss the Salad: Pour the dressing over the vegetable mixture. Gently toss the salad until all the vegetables are evenly coated with the dressing. This step ensures that every bite is flavorful and that the ingredients are well-distributed.
Serve: Garnish the salad with the chopped fresh basil for a burst of freshness. If you're adding Parmesan cheese, sprinkle it over the top for an extra layer of flavor. Serve the salad immediately for the best taste and texture, or refrigerate it for up to an hour before serving if you prefer it chilled.

This Keto Italian Veggie Salad is a versatile dish that pairs beautifully with grilled meats, seafood, or as a stand-alone meal for a light and satisfying lunch. Its vibrant flavors and nourishing ingredients make it a perfect choice for those following a ketogenic diet or anyone looking to enjoy a healthy, flavorful salad.