Are you ready to elevate your salad game to a whole new level? Discover the vibrant and refreshing "Romaine Salad with Orange, Feta, and Beans" that not only tantalizes your taste buds but also brings a burst of color to your table! This Mediterranean-inspired dish is a delightful medley of crisp romaine, creamy feta, and juicy orange segments, all harmoniously combined with protein-packed white beans. Perfect for a quick lunch or as a stunning side dish for your next gathering, this salad is a breeze to whip up in just 15 minutes. Dive into this recipe and unlock the secret to a salad that’s as satisfying as it is nutritious!
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: -
Total Time: 15 mins
Cuisine: Mediterranean
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 4 cups romaine lettuce, chopped
- 1 cup canned white beans, rinsed and drained
- 1/2 cup feta cheese, crumbled
- 1 orange, segmented
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Thoroughly wash the romaine lettuce under cold running water, then pat dry completely with clean kitchen towels or paper towels to remove excess moisture.
- Chop the romaine lettuce into bite-sized pieces and place in a large serving bowl, ensuring even size for consistent texture.
- Rinse the canned white beans under cool water to remove any excess sodium or canning liquid, then drain completely in a colander.
- Carefully segment the orange by cutting away the outer peel and removing individual segments, catching any excess juice for potential dressing enhancement.
- Crumble the feta cheese into small, uniform pieces using your fingers or a fork.
- Add the drained white beans to the chopped romaine lettuce, gently mixing to distribute evenly.
- Sprinkle the crumbled feta cheese over the lettuce and bean mixture.
- Arrange the orange segments attractively across the top of the salad.
- Drizzle olive oil evenly over the salad, ensuring all ingredients are lightly coated.
- Season with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste, using a light hand to avoid overpowering the delicate flavors.
- Toss the salad gently to combine all ingredients without bruising the lettuce or breaking the orange segments.
- Serve immediately to maintain the crisp texture of the romaine and the freshness of the ingredients.
Tips
- Freshness is Key: Always opt for the freshest romaine lettuce and ripe oranges to ensure maximum flavor and crispness in your salad.
- Customize Your Beans: While white beans work beautifully, feel free to experiment with other beans like chickpeas or black beans for a different twist.
- Make It Ahead: You can prepare the ingredients ahead of time—just keep the dressing separate until you’re ready to serve to maintain that fresh crunch.
- Add a Zesty Twist: For an extra kick, consider adding a splash of lemon juice or a sprinkle of your favorite herbs, like mint or basil, to enhance the Mediterranean flavor profile.
- Presentation Matters: Take the time to arrange the orange segments and feta artfully on top of the salad; a beautiful presentation makes the dish even more enticing!
- Serve Immediately: This salad is best enjoyed fresh, so serve it right after tossing to keep the romaine crisp and the flavors bright.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 190kcal
Carbohydrates: 16g
Protein: 7g
Fat: 11g
Saturated Fat: 4g
Cholesterol: 13mg