Black Olive and Onion Salad

Ingredients:

• 1 cup black olives (pitted; preferably Kalamata or other good-quality olives)
• 1 small red onion
• 1 cucumber
• 1 bell pepper (red or yellow)
• 10 cherry tomatoes
• 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
• 1 tablespoon red wine vinegar (or balsamic vinegar)
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh parsley or basil leaves (optional, for garnish)

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Ingredients:

   • Slice the black olives if they are not already pitted.
   • Thinly slice the red onion.
   • Dice the cucumber.
   • Dice the bell pepper.
   • Halve the cherry tomatoes.

2. Assemble the Salad:

   • In a large bowl, combine the black olives, red onion, cucumber, bell pepper, and cherry tomatoes.

3. Dress the Salad:

   • In a small bowl, whisk together the extra virgin olive oil and red wine vinegar. Add salt and pepper to taste.
   • Pour the dressing over the salad and toss gently to combine all the ingredients.

4. Serve:

   • Garnish with fresh parsley or basil leaves if desired.
   • Serve immediately, or let it sit for about 15 minutes to let the flavors meld.