Why You’ll Love This Recipe

If you’re looking for a refreshing, healthy, and flavor-packed salad, this Zesty and Crisp Garden Salad with Fresh Veggies is the perfect choice. This vibrant dish is a fantastic way to enjoy the season’s freshest produce, offering a crunchy texture and a tangy dressing that brings everything together beautifully. Whether served as a light lunch, a side dish, or an accompaniment to your favorite protein, this salad is incredibly versatile and easy to prepare.

Ingredients

Mixed salad greens
Cherry tomatoes
Cucumber
Bell pepper
Red onion
Carrots
Radishes
Fresh parsley
Fresh basil
Olive oil
Lemon juice
Apple cider vinegar
Dijon mustard
Honey
Salt
Black pepper
Garlic powder

Directions

Prepare the vegetables: Wash and thoroughly dry all fresh produce. Chop the salad greens into bite-sized pieces if necessary.
Slice and dice: Cut the cherry tomatoes in half, thinly slice the cucumber, bell pepper, red onion, carrots, and radishes. Chop the fresh parsley and basil.
Make the dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, apple cider vinegar, Dijon mustard, honey, salt, black pepper, and garlic powder until well combined.
Assemble the salad: In a large salad bowl, combine all the chopped vegetables and fresh herbs.
Dress and toss: Drizzle the dressing over the salad and toss gently to coat all ingredients evenly.
Serve immediately: Enjoy your zesty garden salad fresh, or let it sit for a few minutes to allow the flavors to meld.

Variations

Add protein: Incorporate grilled chicken, shrimp, chickpeas, or tofu for a heartier meal.
Cheese lovers: Sprinkle in crumbled feta, goat cheese, or shredded Parmesan for extra flavor.
Nutty crunch: Toss in toasted almonds, sunflower seeds, or walnuts for added texture.
Fruity twist: Include fresh berries, apple slices, or pomegranate seeds for a sweet contrast.
Spicy kick: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or finely chopped jalapeño for a fiery touch.

Servings and Timing

Prep time: 15 minutes
Total time: 15 minutes
Servings: 4

Storage/Reheating

Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days.
Dressing storage: Keep any extra dressing separate in a sealed container for up to a week.
Avoid sogginess: If making ahead, store chopped veggies separately and assemble just before serving.

FAQs

Can I make this salad ahead of time?

Yes, but it’s best to store the ingredients separately and mix them with the dressing just before serving to maintain crispness.

What type of greens work best?

A mix of romaine, arugula, spinach, and butter lettuce works beautifully for a balanced texture and flavor.

How can I make the dressing creamier?

Add a tablespoon of Greek yogurt or mayonnaise for a richer, creamier consistency.

Is this salad gluten-free?

Yes, all ingredients in this recipe are naturally gluten-free.

Can I use bottled dressing instead?

Absolutely! While homemade dressing adds a fresh touch, a high-quality store-bought dressing can be a convenient alternative.

What other veggies can I add?

You can include avocados, beets, snap peas, or corn for extra variety and flavor.

Can I use a different vinegar?

Yes, white wine vinegar or balsamic vinegar are great substitutes for apple cider vinegar.

How do I keep the salad from getting watery?

Pat dry all washed veggies thoroughly and avoid overdressing.

What proteins pair well with this salad?

Grilled salmon, hard-boiled eggs, or shredded rotisserie chicken complement this salad perfectly.

Can I make this salad vegan?

Yes! Simply omit the honey or substitute it with maple syrup or agave nectar.

Conclusion

This Zesty and Crisp Garden Salad with Fresh Veggies is a delightful way to incorporate more fresh produce into your diet. With its vibrant colors, bold flavors, and refreshing dressing, it makes for a perfect side dish or a light meal. Try it out today and enjoy a nutritious and delicious bowl of goodness!

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