Looking for a refreshing and nutritious meal? Our Fresh Garden Salad is perfect for any occasion. Packed with crisp vegetables and a tangy vinaigrette, this salad is not only delicious but also easy to make. Whether you’re planning a light lunch or a side dish for dinner, this recipe is a must-try.
Ingredients
To prepare this vibrant salad, you will need the following ingredients:
- 4 cups mixed salad greens (romaine, spinach, arugula, etc.)
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 cucumber, sliced
- 1 bell pepper, diced (red, yellow, or green)
- 1/4 red onion, thinly sliced
- 1/2 cup shredded carrots
- 1/4 cup radishes, thinly sliced
- 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese (optional)
- 1/4 cup sunflower seeds (optional)
For the dressing:
- 1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil
- 2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- 1 garlic clove, minced
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions
- Prepare the Vegetables: Wash and dry all the vegetables thoroughly. Chop or slice them as indicated above.
- Mix the Salad: In a large bowl, combine the mixed salad greens, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, bell pepper, red onion, shredded carrots, and radishes. Toss gently to mix all the ingredients.
- Make the Dressing: In a small bowl or jar, whisk together the olive oil, balsamic vinegar, Dijon mustard, minced garlic, salt, and pepper until well combined.
- Dress the Salad: Pour the dressing over the salad and toss gently to coat all the vegetables evenly.
- Add Toppings: Sprinkle the crumbled feta cheese and sunflower seeds on top, if using.
- Serve Immediately: For the best flavor and texture, serve the salad immediately after dressing.
Tips and Variations
- Protein Boost: Add grilled chicken, shrimp, or tofu to make this salad a complete meal.
- Fruit Twist: For a sweet touch, add sliced strawberries or apple chunks.
- Nuts and Seeds: Substitute sunflower seeds with walnuts, almonds, or pumpkin seeds for a different crunch.
- Cheese Options: Try goat cheese or blue cheese instead of feta for a new flavor profile.
Health Benefits
This Fresh Garden Salad is not only tasty but also packed with nutrients:
- Vitamins and Minerals: Leafy greens and vegetables provide essential vitamins like A, C, and K, along with minerals such as potassium and magnesium.
- Fiber: High in dietary fiber, this salad aids in digestion and helps maintain a healthy weight.
- Healthy Fats: Olive oil in the dressing offers heart-healthy monounsaturated fats.
Nutrition Facts (Per Serving)
Enjoy the fresh and colorful flavors of this Vibrant Salad:
- Calories: 120
- Total Fat: 8g
- Total Carbohydrates: 10g
- Protein: 4g
Conclusion
Our Fresh Garden Salad is a versatile and healthy choice for any meal. With simple ingredients and easy preparation, it’s a recipe you’ll want to make again and again. Enjoy the crisp flavors and the nutritional benefits of this delightful dish!
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