Looking for a refreshing dish that’s perfect for those warm summer days? Dive into our vibrant Summer Salad with Balsamic Lime Dressing! This delightful medley of crisp mixed greens, juicy cherry tomatoes, and creamy feta cheese will tantalize your taste buds and brighten up any meal. With a zesty dressing that perfectly balances sweet and tangy flavors, this salad is not only a feast for the eyes but also a breeze to prepare. In just 15 minutes, you can whip up a colorful and nutritious salad that serves four, making it an ideal choice for gatherings or a quick weeknight dinner. Don’t miss out on this summer sensation—read on to discover how to create this delicious dish!
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: -
Total Time: 15 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 4 cups mixed greens
- 1 cup cucumber, sliced
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1/2 cup red onion, thinly sliced
- 1/4 cup feta cheese, crumbled
- 2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar
- 1 tablespoon lime juice
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Begin by preparing all the ingredients. Rinse the mixed greens thoroughly under cold water and spin them dry in a salad spinner or pat them dry with paper towels. This will ensure that your salad is crisp and fresh.
- Next, wash the cucumber and slice it into thin rounds. If the cucumber has a thick skin, you may choose to peel it before slicing. Set the sliced cucumber aside.
- Take the cherry tomatoes and cut them in half. Ensure they are ripe for the best flavor. Add the halved tomatoes to a large mixing bowl.
- Peel the red onion and slice it thinly. If the flavor of raw onion is too strong for your taste, you can soak the slices in cold water for about 10 minutes to mellow the flavor before adding them to the salad.
- In the large mixing bowl with the cherry tomatoes, add the sliced cucumber and the thinly sliced red onion. Gently toss these ingredients together to combine.
- Now, add the mixed greens to the bowl. Be careful not to crush the greens; gently fold them into the mixture of vegetables to maintain their volume and texture.
- In a small bowl, prepare the dressing by combining the balsamic vinegar, lime juice, and olive oil. Whisk these ingredients together until they are well blended. You can adjust the proportions according to your taste preferences.
- Season the dressing with salt and pepper to taste. Start with a pinch of each and add more as needed. Whisk again to incorporate the seasoning.
- Drizzle the dressing over the salad mixture. Use just enough to coat the salad lightly; you can always add more if needed. Gently toss the salad to ensure that all ingredients are evenly coated with the dressing.
- Finally, sprinkle the crumbled feta cheese over the top of the salad. This adds a creamy texture and a burst of flavor. Serve immediately for the best taste and freshness.
Tips
- Prep Ahead: To save time, wash and chop your vegetables ahead of time. Store them in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to a day before serving.
- Choose Fresh Ingredients: Opt for the freshest mixed greens and ripe cherry tomatoes to enhance the flavor of your salad. The quality of your ingredients will make a significant difference!
- Customize Your Dressing: Feel free to experiment with the dressing! Add a dash of honey for sweetness or a pinch of garlic powder for an extra kick.
- Add Protein: For a heartier meal, consider adding grilled chicken, chickpeas, or quinoa to your salad. This will make it more filling and nutritious.
- Serve Immediately: For the best texture and flavor, serve your salad immediately after tossing it with the dressing. This ensures the greens remain crisp and fresh.
- Presentation Matters: Layer your salad ingredients in a clear bowl to showcase the beautiful colors. A well-presented salad is always more appetizing!
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 95kcal
Carbohydrates: 6g
Protein: 3g
Fat: 7g
Saturated Fat: 2g
Cholesterol: 8mg
