Chopped Mediterranean Salad

I’ve kept the ingredients short in this tasty salad recipe, but feel free to add chopped carrots, avocados, your favourite lettuce, or any other veggies you have on hand.

One of the healthiest oils on the planet is... OLIVE OIL!

And if you’re like a lot of people, you might keep a bottle of it on your counter so that it’s always at hand!

But did you know that’s actually not the best idea? It should be stored in a cool, dark, place.

That keeps it away from light & heat — which can speed up oxidation, making the oil rancid faster.

This would be a shame because olive oil is high in antioxidants, anti-bacterials, anti-inflammatories, and good-for-you fats. 

All of those micronutrients are linked with a lower incidence of stroke, diabetes, Alzheimer’s, cancer, and heart disease. 

For the best nutrition benefits, make sure you’re using PURE extra virgin olive oil.

(makes 4 side dish salads)

• 1 medium cucumber, chopped
  
• 6 cherry tomatoes, chopped and seeds removed
  
• 2 celery stalks, chopped
  
• 1 bell pepper, red or yellow, chopped
  
• ½ red onion, chopped 
  
• ⅓ cup pitted Kalamata olives, halved lengthwise
  
• 1 Tbsp olive oil 
  
• Juice of 1 lemon 
  
• Salt & pepper to taste
  

Place the cucumber, tomatoes, celery, pepper, onion, and olives in a medium bowl. Gently combine.
In a small bowl, whisk together the oil, lemon juice, salt, and pepper. Pour over the veggies and toss to coat.

Simple, fresh, and healthy!