Dandelion Greens and Feta Toss

Name: Dandelion Greens and Feta Toss
Prep time: 15 min
Total time: 15 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 4 cups fresh dandelion greens, cleaned and chopped; 1 cup feta cheese, crumbled; 1/4 cup red onion, thinly sliced; 1/2 cup cherry tomatoes, halved; 1/4 cup olive oil; 2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar; Salt and pepper to taste

Highlighted under: Light Eating Recipes

I love refreshing salads, and this Dandelion Greens and Feta Toss is one of my favorites! The slight bitterness of the dandelion greens combined with the creamy, salty feta creates a delightful contrast that perfectly excites my taste buds. Adding a simple dressing brings everything together, making it a wonderfully vibrant option for lunch or dinner. I enjoy serving it as a light side salad with grilled chicken or fish, and I always feel good knowing it’s packed with nutrients. It’s easy to prepare and deliciously unique!

Created by

Anna

Last updated on 2026-02-01T22:50:28.850Z

When I first encountered dandelion greens, I was curious but skeptical. After experimenting with them in salads, I discovered that their slight bitterness balances beautifully with richer flavors, especially feta cheese. This Dandelion Greens and Feta Toss became a staple in my kitchen because it’s so adaptable—sometimes I add nuts or pomegranate seeds for extra crunch and sweetness.

I’ve found that letting the salad rest for a few minutes after tossing with the dressing allows the flavors to blend wonderfully. Whether served beside grilled meats or as a light meal on its own, this salad always impresses!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
The unique bitterness of dandelion greens adds depth to your salad
Creamy feta provides a rich contrast that's utterly satisfying
Quick to prepare, making it perfect for busy weeknights

Understanding Dandelion Greens

Dandelion greens are not only flavorful but also packed with nutrients. Known for their slightly bitter taste, they are rich in vitamins A, C, and K, as well as minerals like calcium and iron. When choosing dandelion greens, look for vibrant leaves that are crisp and free from blemishes. If they are too bitter for your liking, you can blanch them briefly in boiling water to mellow their flavor. This step can enhance the salad's overall balance.

Their unique texture complements the creamy feta in this salad. The fibrous, crunchy greens provide a satisfying contrast to the soft, crumbly feta. It's a pairing that not only enhances the flavor but also adds visual interest. You may also consider mixing in some other greens, like arugula or spinach, if you want to experiment with variations of taste and texture.

The Role of Feta Cheese

Feta cheese is an essential element in this Dandelion Greens and Feta Toss, providing a creamy texture and salty flavor that balances the bitterness of the greens. When selecting feta, opt for a high-quality brand if possible; it can make a significant difference in taste. Choose between sheep's milk or cow's milk feta based on your preference—sheep's milk feta tends to be creamier and richer, while cow's milk feta is typically milder.

If you’re looking for a substitute due to dietary restrictions or personal taste preferences, consider goat cheese or ricotta as alternatives. Goat cheese brings a tangy flavor and a similar creamy texture. If you’re using ricotta, remember to drizzle a bit of extra olive oil over the salad to mimic the richness of feta.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients:

Ingredients

4 cups fresh dandelion greens, cleaned and chopped
1 cup feta cheese, crumbled
1/4 cup red onion, thinly sliced
1/2 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
1/4 cup olive oil
2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar
Salt and pepper to taste

Once you have your ingredients ready, it's time to get started!

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to make your Dandelion Greens and Feta Toss:

Prepare the Greens

In a large bowl, combine the fresh dandelion greens, red onion, and cherry tomatoes.

Make the Dressing

In a separate bowl, whisk together the olive oil, balsamic vinegar, salt, and pepper.

Toss Everything Together

Pour the dressing over the greens and toss until everything is well coated. Add the crumbled feta cheese and gently mix.

Serve

Transfer the salad to a serving dish and enjoy your fresh Dandelion Greens and Feta Toss!

Now it's time to dig in and enjoy your salad!

Pro Tips

For added flavor, consider toasting some nuts and sprinkling them over the salad just before serving.

Storage and Make-Ahead Tips

To maintain the salad's freshness, it's best to prepare it just before serving. However, if you're looking to save time, you can wash and chop the dandelion greens a day in advance. Store them in an airtight container lined with a paper towel to absorb any excess moisture. Just remember, once dressed, the salad is best enjoyed immediately to avoid wilting.

The dressing can be made ahead of time; simply whisk together the olive oil, balsamic vinegar, salt, and pepper, then store it in a sealed jar in the refrigerator. Shake well before using, as the oil and vinegar will separate over time. This makes it easy to assemble your salad quickly when you're ready to eat.

Serving Suggestions

This Dandelion Greens and Feta Toss is versatile and pairs beautifully with various proteins. I especially love serving it alongside grilled chicken or fish, where the light salad complements the savory main dish perfectly. You can also use it as a bed for roasted vegetables to create a more filling vegetarian option.

Consider adding nuts or seeds for an extra crunch. Toasted walnuts or sunflower seeds can elevate your salad both in texture and nutrition. For a burst of flavor, try tossing in a handful of olives or a sprinkle of sunflower seeds. These additions not only enhance the taste but also add healthy fats, making the dish even more satisfying.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use other greens instead of dandelion?

Yes, you can substitute with arugula or spinach, but dandelion greens offer a unique flavor!

→ How long can I store leftovers?

Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days, but it's best eaten fresh.

→ Is this salad gluten-free?

Absolutely! All the ingredients are naturally gluten-free.

→ Can I make this salad vegan?

Yes, simply omit the feta or replace it with a vegan cheese alternative.