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–+ servings
Tossed Salad

Vibrant Tossed Salad: A Quick and Easy Flavor Explosion

This vibrant tossed salad is a delightful mix of fresh vegetables, perfect for any meal of the day.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Total Time 15 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Lunch
Cuisine: American
Calories: 200
Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Salad
  • 5 cups Mixed Lettuce Leaves Provides a base with crisp texture; use a mix for varied flavor.
  • 2 cups Arugula Adds peppery notes and vibrant greens; substitute with spinach for a milder taste.
  • 1 medium Cucumber Contributes crunch and freshness; can replace with zucchini for variation.
  • 4 medium Radishes Offers texture and peppery flavor; can swap with bell peppers for sweetness.
  • 1 small Red Onion Adds sharpness and color; substitute with green onions for a milder flavor.
  • 1/2 cup Olives Provide a briny kick; choose black olives or omit for a less salty option.
  • 1/4 cup Sunflower Seeds Add crunch and nuttiness; substitute with pumpkin seeds or almonds for variety.
For the Dressing
  • 1/4 cup Extra Virgin Olive Oil Serves as the dressing base; can use avocado oil for a different flavor.
  • 2 tablespoons Balsamic Vinegar Brings sweetness and acidity; apple cider vinegar works as a substitute.
  • 1 tablespoon Apple Cider Vinegar Adds tanginess; can be replaced with lemon juice for brightness.
  • 1 teaspoon Dijon Mustard Enhances flavor and acts as an emulsifier; swap with yellow mustard for a milder taste.
  • 1 pinch Sugar Balances acidity in the dressing; use honey or agave for a natural sweetener.
  • Salt Essential for seasoning; adjust to taste based on preference.
  • Pepper Essential for seasoning; adjust to taste based on preference.

Equipment

  • Mixing bowl
  • Whisk
  • salad servers

Method
 

Combine Salad Ingredients
  1. In a large mixing bowl, add the mixed lettuce leaves and arugula. Chop the cucumber, radish, and red onion into bite-sized pieces, then toss them in along with sliced olives and sunflower seeds. Use clean hands or tongs to gently combine the ingredients.
Prepare Dressing
  1. In a separate small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, balsamic vinegar, and apple cider vinegar. Add Dijon mustard and a pinch of sugar, then season with salt and pepper to taste. Blend until the dressing is smooth and emulsified, about 30 seconds.
Taste Adjustment
  1. Once your dressing is prepared, taste it and adjust seasoning if necessary. The dressing should be tangy and refreshing.
Serve
  1. Drizzle the freshly prepared dressing over the tossed salad just before serving. Toss the salad gently to combine the flavors without bruising the greens.

Nutrition

Serving: 1salad servingCalories: 200kcalCarbohydrates: 10gProtein: 3gFat: 15gSaturated Fat: 2gPolyunsaturated Fat: 6gMonounsaturated Fat: 7gSodium: 150mgPotassium: 400mgFiber: 3gSugar: 2gVitamin A: 50IUVitamin C: 70mgCalcium: 10mgIron: 5mg

Notes

Use fresh ingredients for the best flavor. Cut all vegetables into similar sizes for an even balance of flavors.

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