Acquasala with a Twist

Ingredients

• 2 cucumbers, sliced (300g) 2 cucumbers, sliced (300g)
• 4 tomatoes, diced (500g) 4 tomatoes, diced (500g)
• 1 red bell pepper, sliced (150g) 1 red bell pepper, sliced (150g)
• 1 yellow bell pepper, sliced (150g) 1 yellow bell pepper, sliced (150g)
• 1 red onion, thinly sliced (100g) 1 red onion, thinly sliced (100g)
• 1 cup (150g) pitted black olives 1 cup (150g) pitted black olives
• 200g feta cheese, crumbled 200g feta cheese, crumbled
• 1/4 cup (60ml) extra virgin olive oil 1/4 cup (60ml) extra virgin olive oil
• 2 tablespoons (30ml) red wine vinegar 2 tablespoons (30ml) red wine vinegar
• 2 cloves of garlic, minced 2 cloves of garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• Salt and pepper to taste Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh basil leaves, for garnish Fresh basil leaves, for garnish

Nutrition

• Calories: 250 kcal / 1046 KJ
• Fat: 18g (Saturated Fat: 7g)
• Carbohydrates: 15g (Sugar: 8g)
• Protein: 8g
• Fiber: 4g
• Salt: 1g

Preparation

1. 1.
   In a large bowl, combine the cucumbers, tomatoes, bell peppers, red onion, black olives, and feta cheese.
2. 2.
   In a separate small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, red wine vinegar, minced garlic, dried oregano, salt, and pepper.
3. 3.
   Pour the dressing over the vegetables and toss gently to coat.
4. 4.
   Allow the salad to marinate in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes to let the flavors meld together.
5. 5.
   Garnish with fresh basil leaves before serving.

Treat your ingredients with care...

• Cucumbers — For a crisper texture, remove the seeds before slicing.
• Tomatoes — Use ripe and juicy tomatoes for the best flavor.
• Red onion — Soak the sliced onion in cold water for 10 minutes to mellow its sharpness.
• Feta cheese — Opt for high-quality feta cheese for a creamy and tangy taste.
• Fresh basil — Tear the basil leaves just before garnishing to preserve their aroma.

Tips & Tricks

• For a more intense flavor, let the salad marinate overnight in the refrigerator.
• Customize the salad by adding other Mediterranean ingredients like artichoke hearts or roasted red peppers.
• Serve the Acquasala chilled for a refreshing experience.
• Adjust the amount of garlic and vinegar according to your taste preferences.
• Sprinkle some toasted pine nuts on top for an extra crunch.

Serving advice

Serve the Acquasala as a side dish alongside grilled fish or chicken. It also pairs well with crusty bread or as a topping for bruschetta.

Presentation advice

Arrange the salad in a large serving bowl, allowing the vibrant colors of the vegetables to shine through. Garnish with fresh basil leaves for an added touch of elegance.