Perfectly Balanced Salad with Tangy Vinaigrette

Looking for a refreshing and nutrient-packed salad that can serve as the perfect side or main dish? This Perfectly Balanced Salad with Tangy Vinaigrette is just what you need. The combination of fresh greens, crunchy vegetables, and a zesty dressing ensures both flavor and health benefits.

This recipe is designed to provide a delightful balance of flavors and textures. It's rich in vitamins, minerals, antioxidants, and healthy fats – perfect for those who are conscious about their dietary needs but also want delicious meals that satisfy their taste buds.

Ingredients

6 cups mixed greens (such as arugula, spinach, romaine lettuce)
1 large cucumber, diced into small pieces
1 medium tomato, chopped finely
½ red onion, thinly sliced
1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved or quartered depending on size
¼ cup roasted almonds, for extra crunch and protein
Vegan or regular mayonnaise (optional)
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
½ teaspoon Dijon mustard
Salt and pepper to taste
Lemon zest for garnish (optional)

Instructions

Gather all the ingredients needed. If you prefer a vegan option, substitute mayonnaise with an equal amount of vegan mayo or even a drizzle of olive oil.
Rinse and dry the mixed greens thoroughly to remove any dirt. Set aside in a large mixing bowl.
Chop all vegetables into bite-sized pieces and place them alongside the greens. Ensure that each ingredient is chopped uniformly so that they blend well with the dressing.
In a small bowl, whisk together 2 tablespoons of olive oil, 1 tablespoon of apple cider vinegar, ½ teaspoon Dijon mustard, salt to taste, and pepper according to your preference. This mixture will be your tangy vinaigrette that adds zest to the salad.
Once all ingredients are ready, gently toss together the greens with the dressing in a large mixing bowl until everything is evenly coated. You can add more salt or pepper if needed for better seasoning.
To finish off, sprinkle roasted almonds over the top of the salad for added texture and crunch. A squeeze of lemon zest on top can also give the dish an extra burst of flavor.
Let it sit in the fridge for at least 15 minutes before serving to allow flavors to meld together harmoniously, creating a perfectly balanced salad that’s not only visually appealing but also full of taste.

Cooking Time and Servings

This recipe requires approximately 30 minutes for preparation, making it ideal for quick lunch or dinner options. It serves 4 people, providing a generous amount per serving to ensure everyone gets their fair share of this deliciously balanced salad.

Health Benefits

The Perfectly Balanced Salad with Tangy Vinaigrette offers an array of health benefits due to its diverse ingredient selection:

Mixed greens contribute essential vitamins and minerals like Vitamin K, folate, magnesium, iron, and more.
Cruciferous vegetables such as broccoli in the mixed greens help support detoxification processes within your body.
Tomatoes are rich in lycopene which is known for its strong anti-inflammatory properties.
Cucumbers contain silica, which aids in bone formation and connective tissue health.
The addition of nuts like roasted almonds provides healthy fats necessary for brain function along with proteins to fuel your day.

Conclusion

A Perfectly Balanced Salad with Tangy Vinaigrette is more than just a meal; it's an experience. Each bite brings forth a symphony of flavors and textures that cater both to the palate and overall wellbeing. Whether you're hosting a casual gathering or preparing for your own lunch, this dish will certainly impress all who taste it.