Perfectly Balanced Salad for Your Weeknight Meal

Salads can sometimes be seen as a bit boring or not filling enough for the evening meal, but with this perfectly balanced salad recipe, you will find yourself making it more than just once. This versatile dish provides both taste and nourishment, offering an array of flavors that keep your palate engaged while satisfying hunger. Whether you are looking to start your week right or simply enjoy a light dinner, this salad is perfect for your busy schedule.

Cooking time: 20 minutes

Servings: 4 people

Ingredients

3 cups of mixed greens (arugula, spinach, and romaine)
1 small cucumber, sliced into thin rounds
1 ripe avocado, diced finely
½ cup cherry tomatoes, halved or quartered
2 hard-boiled eggs, chopped into pieces
¼ cup of crumbled feta cheese
3 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
2 teaspoons apple cider vinegar
Salt and pepper to taste (optional)

Instructions

To start, wash the mixed greens thoroughly under cold running water. Once clean, pat them dry using a salad spinner or paper towels. Next, arrange the washed greens in a large bowl.

Add the sliced cucumber and diced avocado to the bowl of greens. Gently mix these ingredients together to prevent bruising the cucumber and avocados.

Scatter the halved cherry tomatoes over the top of the salad along with the chopped hard-boiled eggs and crumbled feta cheese. These elements provide a delightful contrast in texture, adding to the overall appeal of your meal.

Dressing

In a small bowl, whisk together the extra virgin olive oil and apple cider vinegar until emulsified. Taste this dressing before adding any salt or pepper; it should be tart but not overly so. Adjust seasoning as needed based on individual preferences.

Assembly

Pour half of the dressing over your salad, reserving a little bit for drizzling at serving time if desired. Use tongs to toss gently until all ingredients are well coated and evenly distributed throughout the bowl.

Your perfectly balanced salad is now ready! For extra flavor, consider drizzling a bit more dressing just before eating. Serve immediately or chill it in the refrigerator for later consumption; either way, this dish promises to be an excellent choice!

Tips & Variations

For added crunch and nutrition, you might try adding some nuts like almonds or walnuts.
To increase protein content, consider including more seeds such as sunflower seeds or pumpkin seeds.
If you prefer a sweeter salad, add slices of red bell pepper along with the cherry tomatoes for an extra burst of sweetness without altering its balance too much.

Nutritional Benefits

This perfectly balanced salad offers several health benefits due to its rich ingredient profile. The mix of vegetables ensures you get a good dose of vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants necessary for maintaining overall health. Avocados contribute healthy fats which are beneficial for heart function and skin health.

Conclusion

A perfectly balanced salad such as this one can easily become your go-to choice for quick yet satisfying meals throughout the week. Its versatility allows you to customize according to taste preferences, dietary restrictions, or available ingredients. By preparing it ahead of time, you ensure that you always have a nutritious option ready whenever hunger strikes.

Give this recipe a try today and see how much you enjoy creating delicious and healthy dishes right at home!