bell pepper under cold water to remove any dirt or pesticide residues. Pat them dry with a clean kitchen towel.

Cucumber: Cut off the ends and dice the cucumber into small, even cubes. This will ensure consistent texture in each bite. If desired, you can peel the cucumber to reduce bitterness or improve presentation.

Cherry Tomatoes: Slice the cherry tomatoes in half to expose the juicy centers. This will help them absorb the dressing and integrate better with other ingredients.

Bell Pepper: Remove the core and seeds of the bell pepper, then dice it into pieces similar in size to the diced cucumber.

Red Onion: Peel and thinly slice the red onion. Soak the slices in cold water for about 10 minutes to reduce their pungency, then drain them before adding to the salad.

For the basil, simply rinse the leaves and pat them dry. Stack the leaves, roll them together tightly, and chop them to release their aromatic oils.

Mixing the Salad

In a large mixing bowl, combine the diced cucumber, halved cherry tomatoes, diced bell pepper, and sliced red onion. Add the mixed olives for a variety of flavors and textures.

Sprinkle the crumbled feta cheese over the vegetables, ensuring even distribution. The salty tang of the feta cheese will complement the earthiness of the olives and the brightness of the vegetables.

Dressing Preparation

In a small bowl, whisk together the extra virgin olive oil, lemon juice, and dried oregano. Season with sea salt and black pepper to taste. The dressing should balance the acidity of the lemon with the richness of the olive oil, accentuating the salad's natural flavors.

Combining and Serving

Pour the prepared dressing over the mixed salad ingredients. Toss the salad gently to coat all components evenly, making sure the basil is distributed throughout for bursts of color and aroma.

For an optimal flavor experience, let the salad sit for at least 15 minutes before serving. This allows the flavors to meld and the olives to impart their essence into the other ingredients.

Enjoying Your Cretan Olive Mosaic

This salad can be enjoyed as a refreshing starter or as a side dish to complement grilled meats or fish. Pair it with a glass of chilled white wine for an authentic Mediterranean dining experience.

For more Mediterranean recipes and seasoning tips, explore our collection here.

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