Maroulosalata (Greek Lettuce Salad)

Maroulosalata is a refreshing and delicious Greek salad recipe that features crisp lettuce, tangy feta cheese and flavorful dill. Perfect for a summer meal or a quick side dish!

Maroulosalata is celebrated for its simplicity and the way it lets fresh, high-quality ingredients shine. Whether you're enjoying it as a side dish with grilled meats or fish, or as a light lunch on a warm day, this salad brings a taste of Greece to your table.

What is Maroulosalata?

Maroulosalata is a traditional Greek salad primarily made with romaine lettuce. It is a simple, fresh, and light dish that typically includes ingredients such as:

• Thinly sliced romaine lettuce
• Fresh dill
• Green onions or scallions
• Olive oil
• Lemon juice or vinegar
• Salt and pepper to taste

Some variations might include ingredients like cucumber, radishes, or feta cheese, but the classic version focuses on the crispness and freshness of the lettuce combined with the tangy dressing. Maroulosalata is often served as a side dish and pairs well with a variety of Greek and Mediterranean dishes.

How Do You Pronounce Maroulosalata?

"Maroulosalata" is pronounced as mah-roo-loh-sah-LAH-tah. I had to look it up myself! So that's why I also have this titled as Greek Lettuce Salad!

Ingredients

Make sure the ingredients are fresh and good quality for the best flavor. We add Feta cheese for extra protein.

• Romaine Lettuce - provides a crisp base for the salad. Choose medium to large heads of romaine for the best flavor and texture. Small heads may be underdeveloped and less flavorful. Cos lettuce could also be used as a substitute.
• Spring Onions - add a mild savory bite.
• Fresh Dill - imparts a fresh, slightly tangy distinctive flavor that complements the lettuce.
• Feta Cheese - an optional ingredient which adds a touch of creaminess and tanginess to the salad. Use a good quality Feta cheese for the best flavor. Omit to make the salad dairy free.
• Garlic - fresh, minced garlic. Omit if you are not a garlic fan.
• Olive Oil - use a high-quality extra virgin olive oil for the best flavor. The olive oil is a key component of the dressing and will significantly affect the overall taste.
• Lemon Juice - adds a bright, tangy note that lifts the salad.
• Oregano - a classic herb used in Mediterranean cooking.
• Salt - use a good quality salt.

How to Thinly Slice Romaine Lettuce

Thinly slicing romaine lettuce ensures even distribution of flavors and a pleasing texture for your Maroulosalata. Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to thinly slice romaine lettuce:

Materials Needed:

• Romaine lettuce
• Cutting board
• Sharp knife

Steps:

1. Prepare the Lettuce:
   • Remove any wilted or damaged outer leaves.
   • Rinse the lettuce thoroughly under cold running water to remove any dirt or debris.
   • Shake off excess water or pat the lettuce dry with a clean kitchen towel or paper towels.
2. Cut Off the Base:
   • Place the head of romaine lettuce on the cutting board.
   • Using a sharp knife, cut off the stem end at the base of the head. This will separate the leaves.
3. Stack and Align the Leaves:
   • Stack a few leaves on top of each other, aligning them neatly. You can do this with a manageable number of leaves at a time to ensure a consistent cut.
4. Slice the Lettuce:
   • Hold the stack of leaves firmly with one hand, keeping your fingers curled under to protect them.
   • With the other hand, use a sharp knife to slice the lettuce crosswise into thin strips. Aim for slices about ¼ to ½ inch wide, depending on your preference.
   • Repeat this process with the remaining leaves until all the lettuce is sliced.
5. Optional Chopping:
   • If you prefer smaller pieces, you can chop the thin strips into smaller bits by turning the pile 90 degrees and slicing again.
6. Fluff and Separate:
   • Once all the lettuce is sliced, gently fluff the strips with your hands to separate them and create a light, airy texture.

How to Make Maroulosalata

Grab a sharp knife and your chopping board to make this Greek Lettuce Salad.

Finely chop the lettuce, spring onion and dill.

Mix the dressing in a small bowl.

Place the chopped salad on a plate and scatter the crumbled Feta cheese on top.

Drizzle the dressing and toss thoroughly to coat the salad.

Storage

Maroulosalata is best enjoyed fresh but if you have any leftovers place it in an airtight container and place it in the fridge as soon as possible. Consume the next day.

What To Serve With Maroulosalata

Maroulosalata, with its crisp and refreshing qualities, pairs well with a variety of dishes. Serve it as a side to Greek-style skewered and grilled meats or grilled chicken kebabs. Lightly seasoned and grilled fish like sea bass, salmon, or swordfish pairs well with Maroulosalata.

More Low Carb Mediterranean Recipes

Enjoy a feast of Mediterranean food with these other low carb recipes:

Keto Falafel

Cauliflower Tabbouleh

Zucchini Hummus

Mediterranean Chicken Kebabs

Greek Village Salad