Looking for a refreshing and vibrant salad that’s as easy to prepare as it is delicious? Dive into the delightful world of our Watercress and Boston Lettuce Salad with Walnuts! This salad is not just a side dish; it’s a celebration of fresh flavors and textures that will elevate any meal. With its crisp greens, crunchy toasted walnuts, and creamy feta, this dish is a feast for the senses. Ready in just 15 minutes, it’s the perfect quick fix for busy weeknights or an impressive addition to your next gathering. Don’t miss out on this simple yet sophisticated salad that’s sure to impress your family and friends!
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: -
Total Time: 15 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 2 cups watercress, washed
- 2 cups Boston lettuce, torn
- 1/2 cup walnuts, toasted
- 1/4 cup feta cheese, crumbled
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon red wine vinegar
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Begin by preparing the walnuts. Place walnuts in a dry skillet over medium heat and toast for 3-5 minutes, stirring frequently, until they become fragrant and lightly golden. Remove from heat and set aside to cool.
- Thoroughly wash the watercress under cold running water, gently patting dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture. Remove any tough stems.
- Tear the Boston lettuce into bite-sized pieces, ensuring uniform size for even distribution in the salad.
- In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, red wine vinegar, salt, and freshly ground black pepper to create the vinaigrette. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
- In a large salad bowl, combine the watercress and Boston lettuce, creating a mixed green base.
- Sprinkle the toasted walnuts evenly over the greens.
- Crumble the feta cheese over the salad, distributing it gently to ensure even coverage.
- Drizzle the prepared vinaigrette over the salad just before serving, tossing lightly to coat all ingredients without bruising the delicate greens.
- Serve immediately to maintain the crisp texture of the lettuce and the warmth of the toasted walnuts.
Tips
- Toast the Walnuts Perfectly: Keep a close eye on the walnuts while toasting them in the skillet. They can go from perfectly golden to burnt in a matter of seconds. Stir frequently to ensure even toasting.
- Choose Fresh Greens: For the best flavor and texture, opt for the freshest watercress and Boston lettuce you can find. Look for vibrant, crisp leaves without any wilting or browning.
- Customize Your Vinaigrette: Feel free to tweak the vinaigrette to your taste! Add a touch of honey for sweetness or a squeeze of lemon for extra brightness.
- Serve Immediately: To maintain the crispness of the greens and the warmth of the walnuts, serve the salad right after tossing it with the vinaigrette. This ensures every bite is fresh and flavorful.
- Add More Flavor: Consider adding sliced apples or pears for a sweet contrast, or some cherry tomatoes for a pop of color. The possibilities are endless!
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 220kcal
Carbohydrates: 6g
Protein: 7g
Fat: 20g
Saturated Fat: 4g
Cholesterol: 15mg
