Ingredients:
- Vegetables:
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 cup cucumber, sliced
- 1 cup bell peppers (any color), chopped
- 1/2 cup red onion, thinly sliced
- 1/2 cup black olives, sliced
- 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, torn
- Cheese:
- 1/2 cup mozzarella cheese, diced or fresh mozzarella balls
- Dressing:
- 1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil
- 2 tablespoons red wine vinegar
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Optional Additions:
- Grilled chicken or shrimp for added protein
- Avocado slices for extra creaminess
Instructions:
- Prepare the Vegetables:
- In a large bowl, combine the cherry tomatoes, cucumber, bell peppers, red onion, black olives, and fresh basil.
- Add Cheese:
- Gently fold in the mozzarella cheese into the vegetable mixture.
- Prepare the Dressing:
- In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, red wine vinegar, Dijon mustard, minced garlic, dried oregano, salt, and pepper.
- Combine and Toss:
- Pour the dressing over the vegetable and cheese mixture. Toss everything together until well coated with the dressing.
- Chill:
- Cover the salad and let it chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
- Serve:
- Serve the keto Italian veggie salad on a bed of fresh greens, if desired. Add grilled chicken or shrimp for a complete meal. Top with avocado slices if you like.
This salad is not only keto-friendly but also packed with vibrant colors, flavors, and nutrients. Adjust the ingredients and proportions according to your taste preferences. Enjoy your delicious and healthy keto Italian veggie salad!