Crisp asparagus, juicy tomatoes, and feta tossed with a zesty lemon dressing.

There’s something so refreshing about this Mediterranean Market Bowl – it’s light, colorful, and packed with flavor. Crisp asparagus, juicy tomatoes, and creamy feta bring the best of fresh produce together in one bowl. Tossed in a bright lemon-herb dressing, this Mediterranean Market Bowl is the kind of dish you’ll want to bring to backyard dinners, picnics, or just keep in the fridge for easy snacking.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• It’s a Mediterranean asparagus salad that’s fresh, colorful, and full of flavor.
• The zesty lemon-herb dressing ties everything together.
• Packed with veggies, chickpeas, and feta for a hearty yet light dish.
• Perfect for spring dinners, summer picnics, or meal prep.
• Quick and easy to make with simple, wholesome ingredients.

Ingredient Notes

• Asparagus – Blanching keeps it crisp-tender and bright green. You could also grill it for extra smoky flavor.
• Cherry tomatoes – Sweet and juicy, they balance the salty feta. Grape tomatoes work too.
• Cucumber – Adds crunch and freshness; peel if you prefer a softer bite.
• Chickpeas – Canned makes this quick and easy, just rinse well before using.
• Black olives – Add briny flavor; kalamata olives are another great choice.
• Red onion – Slice thinly so it doesn’t overpower the salad.
• Feta cheese – Creamy, tangy, and salty; crumbled goat cheese works as a swap.
• Fresh herbs – Parsley and basil make the salad pop, but you can mix in dill or mint.
• Olive oil – A good-quality extra virgin olive oil makes a big difference.
• Lemon juice – Freshly squeezed adds brightness; bottled lemon juice won’t give the same fresh flavor.
• Dijon mustard – Helps emulsify the dressing for a smooth, tangy finish.

Before You Make

Do I need to blanch the asparagus?
Yes! Blanching asparagus for 1–2 minutes in boiling water keeps it crisp-tender and bright green. Don’t skip the ice bath—this stops the cooking and locks in that fresh color.

Can I make this Mediterranean Market Bowl ahead of time?
Absolutely. You can prep the veggies and dressing up to a day in advance. For the best texture, toss everything together right before serving.

Can I swap the feta or olives?
Yes—crumbled goat cheese or mozzarella pearls work well in place of feta. If you don’t like olives, just leave them out or replace them with capers for a similar briny bite.

Mediterranean Market Bowl

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• Author: Taryn Camp

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 1 bunch asparagus (trimmed and cut into 2-inch pieces)
• 1 cup cherry tomatos (halved)
• 1/2 cup cucumber (diced)
• 1/2 cup canned chickpeas (drained and rinsed)
• 1/4 cup black olives (sliced)
• 1/4 cup red onion (thinly sliced)
• 1/4 cup feta cheese (crumbled)
• 2 tbsp fresh parsley (chopped)
• 2 tbsp fresh basil (chopped)
• 3 tbsp virgin olive oil
• 1 tbsp lemon juice
• 1/2 tsp dried oregano
• 1 clove garlic (minced)
• 1/2 tsp dijon mustard
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

1. Blanch the asparagus by bringing a pot of salted water to boil. Add the trimmed and cut asparagus and cook for 1-2 minutes until bright green. Drain the water and transfer the asparagus to an ice bath. Drain and pat dry.
2. Make the dressing by combining the olive oil, lemon juice, oregano, garlic, and mustard and whisk well. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
3. In a large bowl, combine the blanched asparagus, tomatoes, cucumber, chickpeas, red onion, olives, and feta cheese. Drizzle on the dressing and gently toss together to coat. Enjoy!

FAQ

How long does this Mediterranean Market Bowl  last in the fridge?
It keeps well in an airtight container for 3–4 days. The veggies may soften slightly, but the flavors deepen.

Is this recipe healthy?
Yes! It’s loaded with fresh vegetables, plant-based protein from chickpeas, and healthy fats from olive oil. It’s Mediterranean diet–friendly and naturally gluten-free.

Can I use frozen asparagus?
Fresh asparagus is best for this salad, but frozen works in a pinch. Just thaw, blanch briefly, and pat dry to avoid excess water.

What do I serve with this Mediterranean Market Bowl?
It’s great as a side with grilled chicken, salmon, or shrimp. Or serve with warm pita and hummus for a light vegetarian meal.

Can I double this recipe for a crowd?
Yes! Just scale up the ingredients and make extra dressing. It’s perfect for barbecues, potlucks, and spring or summer gatherings.

Sprinkle of Fun

This Mediterranean Market Bowl isn’t just a side dish—it’s a little escape. Pack it in a mason jar with a piece of warm pita or a handful of crackers, and suddenly your workday lunch feels like a colorful stroll through a seaside market.