Greek Villager’s Salad

INGREDIENTS

For the Greek Vinaigrette

1 clove garlic
3 tablespoons olive oil
3 tablespoons red wine vinegar
1 teaspoon dried oregano
kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste

For the Salad

4 cups roughly chopped ripe tomatoes, I used cherry tomatoes
2 cups roughly chopped cucumbers, I used persian cucumbers
2 red or yellow peppers, cut into chunks
1/2 red onion, thinly sliced
8 ounces feta, drain and crumbed
freshly ground black pepper to taste

INSTRUCTIONS

In a small bowl, whisk together all the ingredients for the vinaigrette. Season the vinaigrette with salt and pepper and set it aside.
In a large bowl. combine all of the vegetables and gently toss together. Pour the Greek vinaigrette over the vegetables, and again, gently toss to coat them. Crumble the feta over the salad and then very gently toss the cheese into the vegetables.
Taste and adjust for more freshly ground black pepper if desired. Serve immediately at room temperature, or chill before serving.

Yoga in the Morning

Ever wonder how every yoga instructor you meet has more energy than Jess on New Girl, even at a 7 a.m. class? Yeah, coffee (or green tea) may play a role, but caffeine isn’t the only explanation. The secret is, well, yoga.

We were skeptical when certified yoga instructor Brett Larkin told us too. But she says her 15-minute, a.m. routine centers the mind, balances the body, and jolts you awake with more lasting energy than an any coffee drink can provide.

Even on those mornings when you can barely drag yourself out of bed (we’ve been there), come to your mat—or simply your living room rug—for this sequence that anyone can do (no experience or toe-touching flexibility required!). Not only do these feel-good poses perk you up, but they’ll also open your hips, stretch your shoulders, and lengthen your spine. The result: You’ll walk away feeling centered, focused, and ready to own the day.