Pin it A vibrant, refreshing salad featuring crisp greens, hydrating vegetables, and a zesty light vinaigrette—perfect for a healthy boost at any meal. This Glowing Green Salad is designed to be both nourishing and incredibly easy to prepare in just 15 minutes.
Pin it Whether you are looking for a simple lunch or a nutrient-dense side, this salad offers a crisp texture and bright flavor profile. With easy-to-find ingredients and a straightforward method, it is an ideal choice for busy weekdays or refreshing summer gatherings.
Ingredients
- Greens: 6 cups mixed baby greens (spinach, arugula, kale, or romaine)
- Hydrating Vegetables: 1 cucumber, thinly sliced; 1 cup celery, thinly sliced; 1 cup green bell pepper, julienned; 1 cup zucchini, thinly sliced; 1/2 cup fresh parsley, chopped
- Vinaigrette: 3 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil, 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice, 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar, 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard, 1/2 teaspoon sea salt, 1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
- Optional Add-ins: 1/4 cup pumpkin seeds or sunflower seeds (for crunch)
Instructions
- Step 1
- In a large salad bowl, combine the mixed greens, cucumber, celery, bell pepper, zucchini, and parsley.
- Step 2
- In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, apple cider vinegar, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper until well emulsified.
- Step 3
- Pour the vinaigrette over the salad and toss gently to coat all ingredients evenly.
- Step 4
- Sprinkle with pumpkin or sunflower seeds if desired. Serve immediately.
Zusatztipps für die Zubereitung
To ensure a perfectly blended vinaigrette, use a whisk and a small mixing bowl to emulsify the olive oil and lemon juice before adding it to your greens. Using a sharp chef's knife and a stable cutting board will help you achieve the thin, uniform slices needed for the cucumber and zucchini.
Varianten und Anpassungen
You can easily customize this salad by adding sliced avocado or a handful of fresh mint for extra flavor. For a different citrus profile, try substituting the lemon juice with lime juice to give the dressing a tangy twist.
Serviervorschläge
This Glowing Green Salad pairs exceptionally well with grilled fish or chicken for those looking to add extra protein to their meal. Serve it immediately after tossing to enjoy the vegetables at their crispiest.
Pin it This Glowing Green Salad is a testament to how simple ingredients can create a truly refreshing and nutritious meal. Enjoy the vibrant colors and crisp textures of this easy-to-make dish!
Recipe FAQs
- → Can I prepare this salad ahead of time?
You can wash and chop the vegetables up to 24 hours in advance and store them separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator. Keep the vinaigrette in a small jar and toss everything together just before serving to maintain the crisp texture of the greens.
- → What other greens work well in this mix?
Beyond spinach, arugula, kale, and romaine, try adding fresh butter lettuce, mixed spring greens, watercress for peppery notes, or even shredded Swiss chard for added color and nutrition.
- → How can I add more protein to make it a complete meal?
Consider topping with grilled chicken breast, baked salmon fillets, hard-boiled eggs, chickpeas, white beans, or crumbled feta cheese. Hemp seeds and chopped walnuts also provide plant-based protein along with healthy fats.
- → Will the vinaigrette keep for later use?
The vinaigrette stays fresh in a sealed container in the refrigerator for up to one week. The oil may solidify when cold—simply let it sit at room temperature for 10 minutes and whisk well before using again.
- → Can I substitute the apple cider vinegar?
White wine vinegar, champagne vinegar, or rice vinegar all work beautifully as substitutes. Each brings a slightly different acidity profile, so start with less and adjust to taste based on your preference for brightness.
- → What seasonal vegetables can I swap in?
In summer, try thinly sliced radishes, cherry tomatoes, or fresh corn. Winter works well with shredded Brussels sprouts, thin-sliced fennel, or grated carrots. Adjust based on what's fresh and available locally.