Fresh Veggie Summer Salad with Citrus Vinaigrette

Welcome to my culinary blog! Today, I’m excited to share with you a refreshing and vibrant dish that is perfect for the summer season: Fresh Veggie Summer Salad with Citrus Vinaigrette. This salad not only looks stunning but also offers a delightful blend of flavors that will leave your taste buds dancing in delight.

Ingredients

To prepare this exquisite salad, you will need the following ingredients:

• 4 cups mixed greens (arugula, spinach, romaine, etc.)
• 1 cucumber, sliced
• 1 red bell pepper, chopped
• 1 yellow bell pepper, chopped
• 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
• 1/2 cup fresh corn kernels (from about 2 ears of corn)
• 1 avocado, peeled and diced
• 1/4 cup red onion, thinly sliced
• 1/4 cup feta cheese, crumbled
• 1/4 cup toasted sunflower seeds
• Citrus Vinaigrette (recipe below)

Citrus Vinaigrette Recipe

The secret to this salad’s success lies in its dressing: the Citrus Vinaigrette. This dressing is both zesty and tangy, perfectly complementing the freshness of the vegetables. Here’s how you can make it:

1. Ingredients: 1/4 cup freshly squeezed orange juice, 1/4 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice, 2 tablespoons olive oil, 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard, 1 teaspoon honey, 1/2 teaspoon salt, 1/4 teaspoon black pepper.
2. Instructions: In a small bowl, whisk together the orange juice, lemon juice, olive oil, Dijon mustard, honey, salt, and black pepper until well combined. Taste and adjust seasoning if necessary.

Preparation Steps

Now that we have our ingredients and dressing ready, let’s dive into the preparation process:

1. Prepare the Greens: Start by washing and drying your mixed greens thoroughly. Arrange them on a large serving platter or individual plates.
2. Add Vegetables: Next, layer the cucumber slices, red and yellow bell peppers, cherry tomatoes, and fresh corn kernels over the greens. Be sure to arrange these elements attractively for an appealing presentation.
3. Incorporate Toppings: Sprinkle the diced avocado, red onion slices, and crumbled feta cheese over the salad. Finally, top with toasted sunflower seeds for added crunch and texture.
4. Dress the Salad: Drizzle the Citrus Vinaigrette evenly over the salad just before serving. Gently toss the salad to ensure all ingredients are coated with the dressing.

Nutritional Information

This salad is not only delicious but also nutritious. It provides a good source of vitamins A, C, and K, as well as fiber and antioxidants. Avocado adds healthy fats, while the citrus vinaigrette contributes to the overall health benefits of this dish.

Serving Suggestions

This Fresh Veggie Summer Salad pairs wonderfully with grilled chicken or salmon for a more substantial meal. Alternatively, serve it alongside some crusty bread or a light soup for a complete lunch or dinner experience.

Tips for Success

To ensure the best results, follow these tips:

• Choose ripe, flavorful fruits and vegetables to enhance the overall taste of the salad.
• Toast the sunflower seeds briefly in a dry pan to bring out their nutty flavor.
• Prepare the salad just before serving to maintain its crispness and freshness.

Variations and Substitutions

Feel free to customize this recipe according to your preferences or dietary restrictions:

• For a vegan option, omit the feta cheese and replace it with a plant-based alternative.
• Swap the avocado for another fruit like mango or papaya for a different flavor profile.
• Consider adding grilled shrimp or tofu for additional protein.

Conclusion

The Fresh Veggie Summer Salad with Citrus Vinaigrette is a delightful addition to any summer menu. Its bright colors and refreshing flavors make it ideal for picnics, potlucks, or simply enjoying at home. Give this recipe a try and savor the essence of summer with every bite!