Ina Garten Middle Eastern Salad

Ina Garten’s Middle Eastern Salad is a vibrant, refreshing dish that brings together fresh vegetables, bright herbs, and a zesty lemon dressing. It’s light, colorful, and incredibly satisfying—perfect as a side dish or a healthy lunch. This salad is inspired by the flavors of the Middle East, especially the simplicity and depth found in dishes like tabbouleh and fattoush. It’s everything you want in a salad: crisp textures, bold flavors, and minimal prep time.

What Is Ina Garten’s Middle Eastern Salad?

This salad features finely chopped vegetables like cucumbers, tomatoes, bell peppers, and red onion, tossed with fresh parsley and mint, then dressed with a simple lemon-olive oil vinaigrette. It’s Ina’s take on the traditional chopped salads of the Middle East—no lettuce, no fluff, just bold, clean ingredients.

Other Ina Garten Popular Recipes

• Ina Garten Homemade Ricotta
• Ina Garten Green Salad Vinaigrette
• Ina Garten Roasted Shrimp Salad
• Ina Garten Lobster and Shells
• Ina Garten Chicken with Shallots

Reasons to Try Ina Garten’s Middle Eastern Salad

• Perfect for hot days – Light and refreshing, ideal for warm weather
• Great as a make-ahead side – Holds up well without getting soggy
• Pairs well with grilled meats or pita – Complements almost any main dish
• Full of color and nutrients – Packed with fresh vegetables and herbs
• Quick and easy to prepare – Only basic chopping and mixing are involved
• Naturally vegan and gluten-free – Fits a wide range of diets

Ingredients Needed to Make Ina Garten’s Middle Eastern Salad

• 1 English cucumber, diced
• 2 cups cherry tomatoes, halved
• 1 red bell pepper, diced
• ½ red onion, finely chopped
• ¼ cup fresh parsley, chopped
• 2 tablespoons fresh mint, chopped
• Zest and juice of 1 lemon
• ¼ cup extra virgin olive oil
• Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste

Instructions to Prepare Ina Garten Middle Eastern Salad

Prepare the vegetables

• Dice the cucumber, tomatoes, bell pepper, and red onion. Place in a large bowl.

Add the herbs

• Stir in the freshly chopped parsley and mint for a fragrant, bright base.

Make the dressing

• In a small bowl, whisk together lemon zest, lemon juice, olive oil, salt, and pepper.

Toss the salad

• Pour the dressing over the vegetables and herbs. Toss gently until well combined.

Chill and serve

• Let the salad sit for 10–15 minutes to allow flavors to meld. Serve chilled or at room temperature.

What Goes Well With Ina Garten’s Middle Eastern Salad

• Grilled chicken or lamb – Adds protein without overpowering the light salad
• Warm pita bread or flatbreads – Perfect for scooping
• Hummus or baba ghanoush – A creamy contrast to the crisp vegetables
• Rice or couscous dishes – Makes a complete Mediterranean-inspired meal
• Feta cheese or olives – For a savory, briny punch
• Falafel or veggie patties – Keeps it vegetarian and satisfying

Key Tips for Making Ina Garten’s Middle Eastern Salad

• Use seedless cucumbers – Prevents excess moisture
• Chop uniformly – Helps each bite feel balanced
• Don’t skip the lemon zest – It adds a burst of citrus flavor
• Let it rest – Flavors deepen after 10–15 minutes of sitting
• Adjust seasoning to taste – Don’t be afraid to add a little more salt or lemon
• Serve cold or at room temperature – Both work well
• Add protein if desired – Chickpeas or grilled shrimp work beautifully

Creative Variations of Ina Garten’s Middle Eastern Salad

• Add chickpeas – Boosts protein and fiber
• Toss in cooked bulgur or quinoa – Makes it more filling
• Top with crumbled feta cheese – Adds creaminess and saltiness
• Include diced avocado – For a creamy, modern twist
• Add sumac or za’atar – Brings authentic Middle Eastern spice
• Use roasted red peppers instead of fresh – Adds sweetness and smokiness
• Stir in pomegranate seeds – For a pop of sweetness and color

How to Store Ina Garten’s Middle Eastern Salad

• Refrigerate in an airtight container – Keeps fresh for up to 2 days
• Stir before serving again – Redistributes the dressing
• Drain excess liquid if needed – Tomatoes and cucumbers release moisture
• Avoid freezing – The fresh vegetables don’t thaw well
• Keep herbs separate if storing long – Prevents them from wilting too quickly

How to Reheat Ina Garten’s Middle Eastern Salad

This salad is meant to be enjoyed cold or at room temperature and should not be reheated.

Nutritional Value (per serving, approx.)

• Calories: 140
• Protein: 2g
• Fat: 10g
• Carbohydrates: 11g
• Fiber: 3g
• Sugar: 5g
• Sodium: 160mg

FAQs

Can I make Ina Garten’s Middle Eastern Salad ahead of time?

Yes, you can make it a few hours ahead. Just store it covered in the fridge and give it a quick stir before serving. The flavors will actually deepen as it sits.

What herbs are best in a Middle Eastern salad like Ina Garten’s?

Fresh parsley and mint are essential. These herbs bring brightness and authenticity to the dish, mimicking classic Levantine flavors.

Is it okay to add grains like bulgur or couscous to this salad?

Absolutely. Adding bulgur, couscous, or even quinoa can make the salad more filling and turn it into a main course.

Final Words

Ina Garten’s Middle Eastern Salad brings together simple ingredients and bold flavor in a way that’s both healthy and satisfying.

Whether served as a side or the star of your plate, this vibrant salad is a go-to for fresh, everyday cooking. Try it once and you’ll keep coming back to it.

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