Imagine a salad so delicious and vibrant that it makes healthy eating feel like an indulgence! The Kneaders Cranberry Sunflower Salad is not just a meal, it's a culinary experience that combines the perfect balance of crisp greens, tangy feta, sweet cranberries, and crunchy sunflower seeds. Whether you're a health enthusiast, a busy professional, or someone looking to elevate their lunch routine, this recipe promises to tantalize your taste buds and leave you craving more.
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: -
Total Time: 15 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 6 cups mixed greens
- 1/2 cup dried cranberries
- 1/2 cup sunflower seeds
- 1/2 cup feta cheese, crumbled
- 1/4 cup red onion, sliced
- 1/4 cup balsamic dressing
Instructions
- Prepare your ingredients by washing the mixed greens thoroughly under cold running water. Pat dry using clean paper towels or use a salad spinner to remove excess moisture.
- Place the clean mixed greens in a large serving bowl, ensuring they are evenly spread and not clumped together.
- Slice the red onion into thin, uniform rings or half-moons to ensure even distribution throughout the salad.
- Sprinkle the dried cranberries evenly over the mixed greens, distributing them for balanced flavor in each bite.
- Add the crumbled feta cheese over the salad, allowing it to rest lightly on top of the greens and cranberries.
- Gently scatter the sunflower seeds across the salad, ensuring they are well-distributed for consistent crunch.
- Drizzle the balsamic dressing over the salad just before serving, using a light hand to prevent oversaturation.
- Toss the salad gently with two large serving spoons or salad tongs to mix ingredients without bruising the greens.
- Serve immediately to maintain the crisp texture of the greens and the crunchiness of the sunflower seeds.
Tips
- Always use fresh, crisp mixed greens and wash them thoroughly to ensure maximum flavor and texture.
- For the best taste, use high-quality balsamic dressing and add it just before serving to prevent the greens from becoming soggy.
- Toast the sunflower seeds lightly in a dry pan for 2-3 minutes to enhance their nutty flavor and add extra depth to the salad.
- Use cold feta cheese and crumble it just before adding to maintain its fresh, creamy texture.
- If preparing in advance, keep the dressing separate and add just before serving to maintain the salad's crispness.
- Experiment with different types of mixed greens like arugula or baby spinach to add variety to your salad.
- For a protein boost, consider adding grilled chicken or chickpeas to make it a complete meal.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 250kcal
Carbohydrates: 15g
Protein: 8g
Fat: 18g
Saturated Fat: 5g
Cholesterol: 20mg
