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Marinated Mushroom Olive Salad Recipe

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This Marinated Mushroom Olive Salad is a refreshing and flavorful Mediterranean-inspired dish, featuring tender cremini mushrooms, a mix of green and Kalamata olives, crisp red peppers, red onion, and mozzarella pearls, all coated in a zesty olive oil and red wine vinegar dressing infused with fresh herbs. Perfect as a light appetizer or side, this salad improves in flavor after marinating for several hours, making it an ideal make-ahead option for gatherings.

Ingredients

Salad Ingredients

  • 16 ounces cremini mushrooms, rinsed and dried
  • 6 ounces pitted green olives, drained
  • 6 ounces pitted Kalamata olives, drained
  • ¼ cup diced red pepper
  • 2 tablespoons finely diced red onion
  • 2 garlic cloves, minced
  • 8 ounces mozzarella pearls

Dressing Ingredients

  • ½ cup olive oil
  • ¼ cup red wine vinegar
  • 2 tablespoons chopped fresh basil
  • 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
  • ½ teaspoon salt
  • ⅛ teaspoon pepper
  • Pinch red pepper flakes

Instructions

  1. Combine Salad Ingredients: In a large bowl, add rinsed and dried cremini mushrooms, pitted green olives, pitted Kalamata olives, diced red pepper, finely diced red onion, and minced garlic. Stir well to combine all the fresh ingredients evenly. Then, gently fold in the mozzarella pearls to avoid breaking them, ensuring a balanced mix.
  2. Prepare the Dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, red wine vinegar, chopped fresh basil, chopped fresh parsley, salt, black pepper, and a pinch of red pepper flakes until the dressing is smooth and well emulsified, blending all flavors harmoniously.
  3. Dress the Salad: Pour the prepared dressing over the mushroom and olive mixture. Toss gently but thoroughly to coat every ingredient with the flavorful dressing, allowing the herbs and spices to evenly distribute throughout the salad.
  4. Marinate and Chill: Transfer the salad to a covered container and refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight. This marinating time enables the mushrooms and olives to absorb the dressing flavors, enhancing the overall taste and texture. Serve chilled for best enjoyment.

Notes

  • For best results, use fresh mushrooms and good-quality olives to maximize flavor.
  • This salad improves in flavor after marinating, so prepare it a few hours in advance or the day before serving.
  • If you prefer a spicier salad, increase the amount of red pepper flakes to taste.
  • Serve as a side dish, appetizer, or light lunch; it pairs well with crusty bread or crackers.
  • Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Find it online: https://cozyplatter.com/marinated-mushroom-olive-salad-recipe/