Mediterranean Carrot Ribbon Salad with Feta & Olives

I’m always looking for simple ways to bring the flavors of the Mediterranean to the table, and this Mediterranean Carrot Ribbon Salad with Feta & Olives is one of my favorites.

It’s fresh, colorful, and full of contrast: sweet carrot ribbons, crunchy cucumber, salty feta, and briny Kalamata olives all tied together with a lemony olive oil vinaigrette.

It’s the kind of salad that looks elegant but comes together in minutes.

Topped with crumbled feta cheese and halved pitted Kalamata olives, this salad is dressed with fresh lemon juice and extra virgin olive oil for a bright flavor.

The recipe is simple to prepare and makes a perfect side dish or light lunch. Garnish with chopped fresh dill or parsley for added freshness.

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What is a Carrot Ribbon Salad?

A carrot ribbon salad features long, thin shavings of carrot made with a vegetable peeler. These ribbons are more tender than sliced carrots and absorb dressing beautifully.

Paired with other crisp or briny elements, carrot ribbons offer a visually stunning and texturally balanced salad.

Vibrant Ingredients

This Mediterranean carrot ribbon salad showcases a delightful combination of fresh ingredients that not only look appealing but also offer a burst of flavor in every bite.

The star of the dish is the vibrant, peeled large carrots, which are transformed into beautiful ribbons.

These ribbons add a touch of sweetness and a lovely texture to the salad.

Complementing the carrots are thinly sliced English cucumbers, which provide a refreshing crunch.

Together, they create a colorful base that is both visually stunning and nutritious.

Adding to the flavor profile are crumbled feta cheese and halved pitted Kalamata olives. The creamy feta brings a rich, tangy element, while the olives contribute a briny depth that enhances the overall taste of the salad.

To finish, a light dressing made with fresh lemon juice and extra virgin olive oil ties all the ingredients together, creating a harmonious blend of flavors.

Quick Preparation

This salad is not only delicious but also incredibly easy to prepare.

In just about 15 minutes, you can have this vibrant dish ready to serve. Start by using a vegetable peeler or spiralizer to create those beautiful carrot ribbons.

Next, thinly slice the English cucumber to add to the mix.

In a large bowl, combine the carrot ribbons, cucumber slices, crumbled feta cheese, and halved Kalamata olives.

Whisk together fresh lemon juice, extra virgin olive oil, salt, and pepper in a small bowl to create the dressing.

Pour this dressing over the salad and toss gently to ensure everything is well coated.

Garnishing for Freshness

Garnishing is an essential step that elevates the presentation and flavor of the salad.

Chopped fresh dill or parsley is the perfect finishing touch, adding a burst of color and a hint of herbal freshness.

Once garnished, transfer the salad to a serving platter, and it’s ready to impress your guests.

This salad not only looks inviting but also offers a delightful combination of textures and tastes that will leave everyone wanting more.

Recipe Highlights

This salad is a Mediterranean delight—vibrant, salty, fresh, and light. The ribbons of sweet carrot balance the briny pop of olives and the creamy saltiness of feta.

A bit of lemon and olive oil pulls everything together, making it an ideal dish for spring or summer meals.

Perfect for lunch, dinner, or entertaining, this salad adds color and flavor to any spread. Plus, it’s quick, vegetarian, and highly customizable.

Highlights:

• Mediterranean-inspired flavor in every bite
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• No-cook recipe ready in under 15 minutes
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• Elegant enough for guests, simple enough for weekdays
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• Fresh, bright, and salty in perfect balance
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• Packed with texture and color

Ingredient Notes

• Carrots – Provide a sweet crunch and beautiful color contrast. Use large, firm carrots for better ribbons.
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• Cucumber – Adds a cool, refreshing crunch. English cucumber works best because of its thin skin and few seeds.
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• Feta Cheese – Crumbly and tangy, feta adds creamy richness to the salad.
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• Kalamata Olives – Briny and bold, they bring a salty depth that ties into the Mediterranean theme.
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• Lemon Juice – Fresh lemon juice keeps the salad bright and lively.
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• Olive Oil – Adds richness and binds the dressing. Use extra virgin for the best flavor.
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• Salt & Pepper – Adjust seasoning to taste based on the saltiness of your olives and feta.

How to Make This Recipe

1. Create the Carrot Ribbons
   Use a vegetable peeler to shave peeled carrots into long, thin ribbons. Place in a large bowl.
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2. Add Other Veggies
   Slice cucumber thinly and add to the bowl with the carrots. Add pitted and halved Kalamata olives.
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3. Make the Dressing
   In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, salt, and pepper.
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4. Toss the Salad
   Pour the dressing over the salad. Toss gently to combine and evenly coat the ingredients.
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5. Add Cheese and Serve
   Sprinkle crumbled feta on top just before serving. Optional: garnish with fresh dill or parsley.

Serving Suggestions

This Mediterranean carrot ribbon salad is versatile and can be served in various ways.

It makes a fantastic side dish for grilled meats or fish, complementing the main course with its fresh flavors.

Alternatively, it can stand alone as a light lunch, especially on warm days when you crave something refreshing.

Pair it with a crusty piece of bread or a light soup for a complete meal that is both satisfying and healthy.

This salad pairs well with:

• Grilled lamb, chicken, or halloumi
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• Pita bread and hummus
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• Couscous or orzo with lemon and herbs
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• Falafel or lentil patties
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• Tomato-based soups or chickpea stews

Tips for the Best Mediterranean Carrot Ribbon Salad with Feta & Olives

Use fresh carrots and firm cucumber for the best crunch. Avoid overdressing the salad—just enough to lightly coat the ingredients is perfect.

Add feta last to avoid it melting into the dressing. If you prefer a little heat, a pinch of crushed red pepper adds a nice kick.

Don’t skip the lemon; it brightens the entire dish.

Nutritional Benefits

In addition to its vibrant appearance, this salad is packed with nutritional benefits.

The carrots are rich in vitamins and antioxidants, promoting good vision and skin health.

English cucumbers are hydrating and low in calories, making them an excellent choice for those watching their intake.

Feta cheese adds protein and calcium, while olives provide healthy fats that are beneficial for heart health.

This salad is not only delicious but also a wholesome option for anyone looking to incorporate more fresh produce into their diet.

Storage of Leftovers

Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 2 days in the fridge. For best texture, store feta and dressing separately and toss just before serving.

Do not freeze.