🥗🌿 Mediterranean Seven-Layer Taco Salad

A vibrant layered salad with spiced lean beef, crisp veggies, creamy yogurt sauce, olives, and herbs. It keeps the fun of a taco salad but leans into Mediterranean flavors—fresh, zesty, and satisfying.

🧾 Ingredients (Serves 6–8)

🥩 Protein Layer:

• 1 lb lean ground beef or ground turkey
• 1 tsp cumin
• 1 tsp paprika
• ½ tsp oregano
• ½ tsp garlic powder
• Salt & pepper
• ½ cup tomato sauce or crushed tomatoes

🥗 Layers:

• 3 cups chopped romaine or iceberg lettuce
• 1 cup cherry tomatoes, diced
• 1 cucumber, diced
• ½ cup red onion, finely chopped
• ½ cup black or kalamata olives, sliced
• 1 cup shredded cheddar or feta cheese
• ½ cup green onions, sliced

🥣 Mediterranean Dressing:

• 1 cup plain Greek yogurt
• 2 tbsp lemon juice
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 1 clove garlic, minced
• 1 tsp dried dill or oregano
• Salt & pepper
• 🔪 Instructions

1. Cook the meat

• Brown beef or turkey in a skillet
• Add spices and tomato sauce
• Simmer 5–7 minutes, then cool slightly

2. Make the dressing

• Mix yogurt, lemon juice, olive oil, garlic, herbs, salt, and pepper
• Chill until ready to use

3. Layer the salad (in a large glass bowl)

1. Lettuce
2. Seasoned meat
3. Tomatoes + cucumber
4. Yogurt dressing
5. Cheese
6. Olives + red onion
7. Green onions on top

4. Chill & serve

• Refrigerate 20–30 minutes
• Serve layered or toss before eating

❓ Q&A

Q: What makes it Mediterranean?
A: Olive oil, yogurt dressing, herbs, and fresh veggies instead of heavy sour cream + processed sauces.

Q: Can I make it vegetarian?
A: Yes—swap meat for chickpeas or lentils.

Q: Is it meal prep friendly?
A: Yes—just keep dressing separate until serving.

Q: Can I make it low-carb?
A: Skip beans/corn (if adding) and go heavier on greens and protein.

💡 Tips

• Use a clear bowl to show off those layers
• Add chopped parsley or mint for extra freshness
• Sprinkle crushed pita chips on top for crunch (optional)
• Let it chill—it tastes even better after the flavors meld.