A fresh vegetable salad is a wonderful way to incorporate nutrient-rich foods into your meals. Packed with vibrant vegetables, this recipe is perfect for a healthy lunch, a light dinner, or a refreshing side dish. The beauty of this salad is its simplicity, yet it’s bursting with flavor from crisp vegetables and a tangy dressing. Let’s dive into how to make this refreshing dish step by step!

Ingredients:

Base Vegetables:

• 2 cups of fresh lettuce leaves (romaine, iceberg, or mixed greens)
• 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
• 1 cucumber, thinly sliced
• 1 carrot, shredded or julienned
• 1 red bell pepper, sliced into thin strips
• 1 yellow bell pepper, sliced into thin strips
• 1/4 cup fresh parsley or cilantro, finely chopped

Optional Add-Ins:

• 1/4 cup red onion, thinly sliced
• 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese
• 1/4 cup toasted sunflower seeds
• 1 avocado, diced

Homemade Dressing:

• 3 tablespoons olive oil
• 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
• 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
• 1 clove garlic, minced
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Prep the Vegetables: Wash all the vegetables under cold running water. Dry them thoroughly with a clean kitchen towel or use a salad spinner to remove excess water.
2. Slice and Chop: Cut the cherry tomatoes in half, thinly slice the cucumber, julienne or shred the carrot, and slice the bell peppers into thin strips. Chop the parsley or cilantro for added freshness.
3. Assemble the Salad: In a large salad bowl, layer the lettuce leaves at the bottom as the base. Add the sliced vegetables on top, starting with the cucumbers, followed by the carrots, tomatoes, and bell peppers. Sprinkle the parsley or cilantro evenly over the salad.
4. Prepare the Dressing: In a small mixing bowl, whisk together the olive oil, lemon juice, Dijon mustard, minced garlic, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Continue whisking until the dressing is emulsified and smooth.
5. Dress the Salad: Drizzle the dressing over the salad just before serving. Use salad tongs or two large spoons to gently toss the salad until the vegetables are evenly coated with the dressing.
6. Add Optional Toppings: For added flavor and texture, sprinkle the salad with red onion slices, crumbled feta cheese, toasted sunflower seeds, or diced avocado.
7. Serve and Enjoy: Serve the vegetable salad immediately as a standalone meal or alongside your favorite main dish. The crisp textures and tangy dressing make it an instant favorite!

Tips for Success:

• For the freshest taste, use vegetables that are in season and locally sourced.
• To save time, you can prep the vegetables ahead of time, but store the dressing separately and add it just before serving.
• Feel free to customize the salad with your favorite vegetables or proteins like grilled chicken, shrimp, or tofu for a heartier meal.
• If you prefer a sweeter dressing, add a teaspoon of honey to the mixture.

This fresh vegetable salad is a versatile dish that’s easy to customize according to your preferences. Its vibrant colors and bold flavors make it not only a treat for your taste buds but also a feast for your eyes. Whether you’re preparing it for a family dinner or a casual gathering, this salad is guaranteed to impress. With just a few simple steps, you can enjoy a bowl of wholesome goodness that’s as delicious as it is nutritious. Happy salad-making!