Cava Greek Salad Recipe

A Refreshing and Healthy Mediterranean Dish

If you’re looking for a fresh and healthy meal option, look no further than the Cava Greek Salad. This dish is packed with flavor and nutrition, making it a great choice for lunch or dinner. The Cava Greek Salad is a classic Mediterranean dish that features fresh vegetables, tangy feta cheese, and a zesty vinaigrette dressing.

To make your own Cava Greek Salad, start with a bed of fresh greens, such as romaine lettuce or spinach. Add in some sliced cucumber, cherry tomatoes, and red onion for a pop of color and flavor. Top it all off with crumbled feta cheese and a drizzle of homemade vinaigrette dressing. The result is a delicious and satisfying salad that is sure to leave you feeling full and energized.

With its fresh ingredients and bold flavors, the Cava Greek Salad is a great way to add some variety to your meal routine. Plus, it’s easy to customize to your liking by adding in your favorite proteins or swapping out ingredients to suit your taste preferences. So next time you’re looking for a healthy and delicious meal, give the Cava Greek Salad a try!

History of Cava Greek Salad

Origins of Cava Greek Salad

Cava Greek Salad is a popular dish that is served in Cava, a Mediterranean restaurant chain that was founded in 2011. According to the Cava website, the restaurant was founded by three childhood friends who wanted to bring the flavors of their Mediterranean heritage to the United States. The founders, Ike Grigoropoulos, Chef Dimitri Moshovitis, and Ted Xenohristos, were inspired by the traditional Greek salad, which is a simple but flavorful dish that is made with fresh vegetables, feta cheese, and olive oil.

The Cava Greek Salad is a modern take on the traditional Greek salad. It is made with a mix of romaine and arugula, grilled chicken, Persian cucumber, tomato, Kalamata olives, feta, and a tangy Greek vinaigrette. The salad is served with a side of hummus and tzatziki, which are classic Mediterranean dips. The Cava Greek Salad is a popular menu item at Cava, and it has become a signature dish for the restaurant.

Popularity and Evolution

Since its launch, Cava has expanded rapidly, with over 90 locations across the United States. The popularity of the Cava Greek Salad has played a significant role in the success of the restaurant chain. The salad is a healthy and flavorful option for customers who are looking for a quick and satisfying meal.

Over the years, the Cava Greek Salad has evolved to include new ingredients and flavors. For example, the restaurant now offers a grain bowl version of the salad, which includes quinoa, lentils, and other grains. Cava has also introduced new dips and sauces, such as harissa and green harissa, which add a spicy kick to the salad.

Overall, the Cava Greek Salad is a modern take on a classic dish that has become a staple of Mediterranean cuisine. Whether you are looking for a healthy lunch option or a flavorful side dish, the Cava Greek Salad is a dish that is sure to satisfy your taste buds.

Ingredients and Substitutes

 

Essential Ingredients

To make a delicious Cava Greek salad, you will need the following ingredients:

• Romaine lettuce and arugula mix
• Grilled chicken
• Tzatziki sauce
• Feta cheese
• Persian cucumber
• Kalamata olives
• Greek vinaigrette

These are the essential ingredients that create the classic tangy and savory Mediterranean flavors of a Cava Greek salad. The base of the salad is a mix of romaine lettuce and arugula, which provides a refreshing and crisp texture. Grilled chicken is the protein source that adds a savory flavor to the salad. Tzatziki sauce, made with Greek yogurt, garlic, and cucumber, provides a creamy and tangy flavor to the salad. Feta cheese, Persian cucumber, and Kalamata olives are the other essential ingredients that make the salad so great. Finally, the Greek vinaigrette ties all the flavors together with its tangy and savory taste.

Substitute Suggestions

If you are looking for substitutes for any of the essential ingredients, here are some suggestions:

• For the grilled chicken, you can use grilled shrimp, tofu, or chickpeas as a vegetarian option.
• If you cannot find Persian cucumber, you can use regular cucumber instead.
• If you do not like feta cheese, you can use goat cheese or blue cheese instead.
• If you are not a fan of olives, you can omit them or use sun-dried tomatoes instead.
• If you are looking for a dairy-free option, you can use a vegan tzatziki sauce made with coconut yogurt.

Keep in mind that these substitutes may alter the taste and texture of the salad, but they can still be delicious options.

Nutritional Value

If you are looking for a healthy and satisfying meal, Cava Greek Salad is a great option. This salad is packed with fresh, nutrient-dense ingredients that provide a variety of health benefits.

Health Benefits

One of the primary health benefits of Cava Greek Salad is its high nutrient content. The salad is made with a base of romaine and arugula, which are both nutrient-dense greens. These greens are packed with vitamins and minerals, including vitamin A, vitamin C, vitamin K, and folate.

The salad also contains a variety of other nutrient-dense ingredients, including grilled chicken, tzatziki, feta, Persian cucumber, tomato, and Kalamata olives. These ingredients provide a range of vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants that can help support overall health and wellbeing.

Caloric Content

If you are watching your calorie intake, it is important to be aware of the caloric content of Cava Greek Salad. According to FastFoodNutrition.org, a Cava Greek Salad contains 540 calories. However, it is important to note that this calorie count may vary depending on the specific ingredients and portion sizes used.

To help keep the calorie count of your salad in check, consider making some modifications to the recipe. For example, you could opt for a smaller portion size or skip some of the higher calorie ingredients, such as the feta cheese or the tzatziki sauce.

Overall, Cava Greek Salad is a healthy and satisfying meal option that can provide a range of health benefits. By being mindful of your portion sizes and ingredient choices, you can enjoy this salad as part of a balanced and nutritious diet.

Preparation Techniques

Dressing Preparation

The dressing is a crucial component of the Cava Greek Salad. It is what brings all the flavors together and gives the salad its distinct taste. To prepare the dressing, you will need garlic cloves, Dijon mustard, fresh lemon juice, red wine vinegar, dried basil, dried oregano, salt, black pepper, and olive oil.

To make the dressing, start by adding the garlic cloves, Dijon mustard, fresh lemon juice, red wine vinegar, dried basil, dried oregano, salt, and black pepper to a blender. Pulse several times to mix these ingredients well. With the blender running on high, slowly pour in the olive oil until the mixture becomes creamy.

Vegetable Cutting Styles

The vegetables in the Cava Greek Salad should be cut in a specific way to ensure that they all have a consistent size and shape. This not only makes the salad look more appealing, but it also ensures that each bite has a balanced mix of flavors.

Start by washing and drying your vegetables. Cut the cucumber into thin slices, the cherry tomatoes in half, and the red onion into thin slices. It is recommended that you cut the red onion into thin slices instead of dicing it, as this helps to prevent it from overpowering the other flavors in the salad.

Next, chop the romaine lettuce into bite-sized pieces. You can also add arugula to your salad if you prefer. Finally, add Kalamata olives and crumbled feta cheese to the salad.

By following these preparation techniques, you can ensure that your Cava Greek Salad tastes just as good as the one you would get at a restaurant.

Serving Suggestions

When it comes to serving Cava Greek salad, there are a few things to keep in mind. In this section, we will discuss some appropriate side dishes and presentation tips to help you create a memorable meal.

Appropriate Side Dishes

Cava Greek salad is a flavorful and hearty dish that can be served on its own or as part of a larger meal. If you’re looking to add some variety to your meal, consider serving the salad with one of the following side dishes:

• Falafel: These deep-fried balls made from ground chickpeas, herbs, and spices are a perfect complement to the salad’s Mediterranean flavors.
• Grilled chicken: Adding some grilled chicken to your salad can help make it more filling and satisfying.
• Greek lamb chops: These tender and juicy lamb chops are a great way to add some protein to your meal.
• Spanakopita quesadillas: These cheesy and crispy quesadillas are a fusion of Greek and Mexican cuisine that pairs perfectly with the flavors of the salad.

Presentation Tips

Presentation is an important part of any meal, and Cava Greek salad is no exception. Here are some tips to help you present your salad in a way that is both appetizing and visually appealing:

• Use a large, shallow bowl: A wide and shallow bowl will allow you to spread out the ingredients of the salad, making it easier to see and appreciate all of the different colors and textures.
• Arrange the ingredients carefully: Take the time to arrange the different ingredients of the salad in an attractive and visually appealing way. Consider grouping ingredients of similar color or texture together to create contrast and interest.
• Use fresh herbs for garnish: Adding a sprig of fresh herbs such as parsley or mint to the top of the salad can add a pop of color and freshness.

In conclusion, serving Cava Greek salad is a great way to enjoy a delicious and healthy meal. By following these tips for appropriate side dishes and presentation, you can create a meal that is both tasty and visually appealing.

Pairing with Drinks

When it comes to pairing drinks with your Cava Greek Salad, you have a few options to consider. Whether you prefer wine or non-alcoholic beverages, there are plenty of choices that can complement the flavors of your salad.

Wine Pairings

One of the best wine pairings for Cava Greek Salad is a crisp, white wine with lots of acidity. Sauvignon Blanc, Rueda, Pinot Grigio, and Assyrtiko are all great options that can bring out the flavors of the salad. These wines have a refreshing taste that can balance the tanginess of the feta cheese and the acidity of the tomatoes.

If you prefer red wine, you might want to steer clear of pairing it with Cava Greek Salad. The high acidity of the tomatoes can make the wine taste sour. However, if you must have red wine, a slightly chilled Beaujolais or Merlot could work.

Non-Alcoholic Options

If you prefer non-alcoholic beverages, there are plenty of options that can complement your Cava Greek Salad. One of the best options is sparkling water with a slice of lemon. The bubbles can help cleanse your palate, while the lemon can add a touch of citrusy flavor to your salad.

Another great option is iced tea. A glass of iced tea can be a refreshing way to wash down your salad. If you prefer a sweeter taste, you can add a touch of honey or agave nectar to your tea.

In summary, when it comes to pairing drinks with your Cava Greek Salad, you have plenty of options to choose from. Whether you prefer wine or non-alcoholic beverages, there are choices that can complement the flavors of your salad.

Customizing Your Cava Greek Salad

Cava Greek Salad is a delicious and healthy meal option that can be customized to fit your preferences. Here are some ways you can personalize your salad to make it even more enjoyable.

Adding Proteins

If you’re looking to add some extra protein to your Cava Greek Salad, there are plenty of options to choose from. You can add grilled chicken, shrimp, or falafel to your salad to make it more filling and satisfying. You can also add a boiled egg or some tofu for a vegetarian protein option.

Here is a table showing the protein content of some common add-ons:

Add-Ons	Protein Content (g)
Grilled Chicken	28
Shrimp	24
Falafel	8
Boiled Egg	6
Tofu	10

Vegan and Vegetarian Variations

If you’re a vegan or vegetarian, you can still enjoy a delicious Cava Greek Salad by making a few modifications. You can omit the feta cheese and add some avocado or nuts for a creamy texture. You can also add some roasted vegetables like sweet potatoes or cauliflower for a hearty and flavorful salad.

Here’s a list of vegan and vegetarian add-ons that you can include in your Cava Greek Salad:

• Avocado
• Nuts (almonds, walnuts, etc.)
• Roasted Vegetables (sweet potatoes, cauliflower, etc.)
• Chickpeas
• Lentils

By customizing your Cava Greek Salad, you can make it a perfect fit for your taste buds and dietary needs. Whether you’re looking to add some extra protein or make it vegan-friendly, there are plenty of options to choose from.

Storage and Leftovers

If you have some leftover Cava Greek Salad, you can store it in the refrigerator for later consumption. Here are some tips to help you get the most out of your salad:

Refrigeration Best Practices

To keep your Cava Greek Salad fresh, store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It’s best to consume it within three to four days of preparation. When storing the salad, make sure to keep the dressing separate from the vegetables to avoid the greens from getting soggy.

If you plan on storing your Cava Greek Salad for a longer period, you can also try freezing it. However, keep in mind that the texture of the vegetables may change once thawed. It’s best to consume the salad within two to three months of freezing.

Revitalizing Day-Old Salad

If your Cava Greek Salad has been sitting in the refrigerator for a day or two and has lost its crispiness, there are a few ways to revitalize it. One way is to add some fresh greens to the salad to give it a boost of texture and flavor. You can also add some nuts or seeds to the salad for an extra crunch.

Another way to revitalize your day-old Cava Greek Salad is to make a new batch of dressing and toss it with the salad. You can also add some fresh herbs or spices to give the salad a new flavor profile.

By following these tips, you can ensure that your Cava Greek Salad stays fresh and delicious for as long as possible.

Cava Greek Salad in Different Cuisines

If you’re a fan of Greek cuisine, then you must have tried the Cava Greek Salad. This salad is a staple in Mediterranean cuisine and is enjoyed all over the world. However, did you know that this salad has also been adapted to suit different cuisines? Here are some variations of the Cava Greek Salad that you can find in different parts of the world.

Mediterranean Variations

The Cava Greek Salad is already a Mediterranean dish, but there are still variations of this salad that you can find in different countries in the region. For example, in Turkey, the salad is called “Coban Salatasi” and is made with fresh tomatoes, cucumbers, onions, and parsley. In Lebanon, the salad is called “Fattoush” and is made with crispy pita chips, radishes, and sumac.

Global Influences

The Cava Greek Salad has also been influenced by other cuisines around the world. In the United States, you can find the Cava Greek Salad with added ingredients like avocado, bacon, and ranch dressing. In Mexico, the salad is often served with grilled chicken and a spicy chipotle dressing. Japan, the salad is made with seaweed and sesame seeds.

No matter where you go, you’re sure to find a variation of the Cava Greek Salad that suits your taste buds. Whether you prefer the classic Mediterranean version or a fusion version with global influences, the Cava Greek Salad is a delicious and healthy dish that you can enjoy any time of the day.

Cava Greek Salad for Special Diets

If you have dietary restrictions or preferences, you may be wondering if Cava Greek Salad is a good choice for you. Fortunately, Cava offers a variety of adaptations and options to accommodate different diets.

Gluten-Free Adaptations

If you’re gluten intolerant or have celiac disease, you may be concerned about the pita chips that come with the Cava Greek Salad. However, you can easily substitute the pita chips for gluten-free options like gluten-free crackers or gluten-free pita bread. You can also ask for the salad without the pita chips altogether.

In addition, the Cava Greek Salad contains Kalamata olives, which may be processed with wheat flour. If you’re highly sensitive to gluten, you may want to ask for the salad without the olives or check with the restaurant to see if they can provide olives that are certified gluten-free.

Low-Carb Options

If you’re following a low-carb diet, you’ll be happy to know that the Cava Greek Salad is a great option. The salad contains a variety of low-carb ingredients like romaine lettuce, arugula, cucumber, tomato, and grilled chicken. You can also customize the salad to make it even lower in carbs by skipping the pita chips and dressing, and adding extra protein like falafel or spicy lamb meatballs.

For those following a keto diet, this recipe can also be adapted to fit your needs. According to Fitness Unicorn, the salad contains 19g of carbs, 4g of fiber, 42g of fat, and 37g of protein. To make it even more keto-friendly, you can add extra healthy fats like avocado or olives and choose a keto-friendly dressing like olive oil and vinegar.

Overall, this recipe is a versatile and delicious choice that can be adapted to fit a variety of special diets. Whether you’re gluten intolerant, following a low-carb diet, or keto, you can enjoy this healthy and flavorful salad at Cava.

Online Resources and External Links

If you’re looking to learn more about this recipe or want to try making it at home, there are plenty of online resources and external links available to help you out.

One great resource is the official CAVA website, which offers a detailed menu of all their dishes, including the Greek Salad. You can also find information on the nutritional content of each dish, as well as options for customization.

Another great resource is Spoonful of Si, a food blog that offers a homemade version of this recipe. The recipe includes instructions for making the salad, as well as tips for customizing it to your liking. You can also find information on other CAVA dishes and ingredients, such as harissa honey chicken and tzatziki sauce.

If you’re looking for more information on the health benefits of this recipe, you can check out Healthline’s article on the benefits of Mediterranean cuisine. The article explains how this type of cuisine can help reduce the risk of chronic diseases, such as heart disease and diabetes. It also provides information on the specific health benefits of ingredients commonly found in CAVA Greek Salad, such as olives and feta cheese.

Overall, there are plenty of online resources and external links available to help you learn more about this recipe and its ingredients. Whether you’re looking to try making it at home or just want to learn more about the health benefits of Mediterranean cuisine, these resources can provide valuable information to help you get started.

Frequently Asked Questions

What ingredients are typically included in a Cava Greek salad?

This recipe typically includes a base of romaine and arugula, with hummus, grilled chicken, tzatziki, feta, Persian cucumber, tomato, Kalamata olives, and Greek vinaigrette. ¹

How many calories are in a Cava Greek salad, and what nutritional value does it offer?

This recipe contains 540 calories, 36 grams of fat, and 17 grams of carbohydrates. It also offers 36 grams of protein, 8 grams of fiber, and 13 grams of sugar. ²

What dressing options are available for a Greek salad at Cava?

Cava offers a variety of dressing options for their Greek salad, including Greek vinaigrette, lemon herb tahini, and red pepper hummus dressing. ¹

Where can I find a Cava restaurant nearby to order a Greek salad?

You can find a Cava restaurant nearby by visiting their website and using the “Locations” tab to search for a restaurant near you. ³

How can I replicate the Cava Greek salad at home?

To replicate this recipe at home, you can use the following ingredients: romaine and arugula, hummus, grilled chicken, tzatziki, feta, Persian cucumber, tomato, and Kalamata olives. You can also make your own Greek vinaigrette by mixing olive oil, red wine vinegar, lemon juice, Dijon mustard, garlic, oregano, salt, and pepper. ⁴

Who owns Cava, and is it affiliated with Chipotle?

Cava is owned by Cava Group, Inc., which is not affiliated with Chipotle. ⁵

Footnotes

1. CAVA ↩ ↩²
2. FastFoodNutrition.org ↩
3. CAVA ↩
4. The Spruce Eats ↩
5. The Motley Fool ↩

External Links

If you want to learn more about this recipe, here are some external links to check out:

• Cava’s official website provides detailed information about their menu, locations, and nutritional information.
• Tasting Table has ranked popular Cava menu items from worst to best, including the Greek Salad.
• The Keto Minimalist has a guide on how to eat keto at Cava, which includes 10 Greek bowls with 15 grams of carbs or less.
• Yelp has reviews from customers who have tried Cava’s Greek Salad and other menu items.
• Facebook and Instagram are Cava’s social media profiles where you can find photos and updates on their food and brand.

These external links can provide you with more information about Cava and their Greek Salad. Whether you want to know about their nutritional information, customer reviews, or keto-friendly options, these resources can give you a better understanding of what Cava has to offer.

More FAQs

Here are some more frequently asked questions about Cava Greek Salad:

What comes on Greek salad at Cava?

Cava’s Greek Salad is a classic Mediterranean salad that comes with a base of romaine and arugula, grilled chicken, tzatziki, feta, Persian cucumber, tomato, Kalamata olives, and Greek vinaigrette. You can customize your salad by adding or removing any ingredients according to your taste.

Why is it called Greek salad?

Greek Salad is a popular dish that originated in Greece. It is made with fresh vegetables and typically includes feta cheese, olives, and a simple dressing of olive oil and lemon juice. The salad is called Greek Salad because it was first made in Greece and has become a popular dish all over the world.

Why is Greek salad important?

Greek Salad is an important dish because it is a healthy and nutritious meal that is packed with vitamins and minerals. It is a great way to get your daily dose of vegetables and is low in calories, making it a perfect meal for those who are trying to lose weight. Additionally, Greek Salad is a great source of protein and healthy fats, making it a filling and satisfying meal.

What is Cava in Greek?

Cava is not a Greek word. It is actually a Mediterranean culinary brand that offers a healthy fast-casual restaurant experience featuring customizable salads, pitas, juices, dressings, and dips. Cava is known for its fresh and flavorful ingredients and its commitment to using only the highest quality produce.

Conclusion

If you’re looking for a healthy and delicious meal option, CAVA’s Greek Salad is definitely worth trying. With a base of romaine and arugula, this salad is packed with classic Mediterranean flavors like hummus, tzatziki, feta, Persian cucumber, tomato, and Kalamata olives.

One of the best things about CAVA’s Greek Salad is the ability to customize it to your liking. You can add grilled chicken for some extra protein or swap out the romaine for SuperGreens if you’re looking for a nutrient boost. Plus, with only 600 calories, it’s a great option for those watching their calorie intake.

Overall, CAVA’s Greek Salad is a great choice for anyone looking for a healthy and flavorful meal option. So next time you’re craving a salad, head to CAVA and give it a try!

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