Imagine a salad that's not just a side dish, but a culinary adventure that dances on your taste buds! Our Green Salad with Macerated Fruit and Nuts is a vibrant, refreshing masterpiece that combines the sweetness of ripe fruits, the crunch of toasted walnuts, and the tangy richness of feta cheese. This isn't just another boring salad - it's a symphony of textures and flavors that will elevate your dining experience from ordinary to extraordinary in just 15 minutes!
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: -
Total Time: 15 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- Mixed greens
- 1 cup strawberries, sliced
- 1 cup blueberries
- 1/2 cup walnuts, chopped
- 1/4 cup feta cheese, crumbled
- 2 tablespoons honey
- 2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar
Instructions
- Wash the mixed greens thoroughly under cold running water, then pat dry using a clean kitchen towel or salad spinner to remove excess moisture.
- Slice the strawberries into thin, uniform pieces, ensuring they are clean and free from stems.
- In a small bowl, combine the sliced strawberries and blueberries. Drizzle honey over the fruits and gently toss to coat, allowing them to macerate and release their natural juices for about 5-7 minutes.
- Toast the chopped walnuts in a dry skillet over medium heat for 2-3 minutes, stirring frequently to prevent burning. Once they become fragrant and lightly golden, remove from heat and let cool.
- In a large salad bowl, spread the mixed greens as a base layer, creating an even foundation for the salad.
- Sprinkle the macerated fruits evenly over the greens, allowing their juices to lightly dress the salad.
- Distribute the toasted walnuts across the salad for added crunch and nutty flavor.
- Crumble the feta cheese over the top of the salad, ensuring even distribution.
- In a small separate bowl, whisk together the balsamic vinegar and any remaining honey from macerating the fruits to create a light vinaigrette.
- Drizzle the balsamic vinaigrette over the salad just before serving, tossing gently to ensure all ingredients are lightly coated.
- Serve immediately to enjoy the fresh, crisp textures and vibrant flavors of the salad.
Tips
- Fruit Maceration Magic: Let your fruits sit with honey for 5-7 minutes to release natural juices and intensify flavors. This simple technique transforms ordinary fruits into a gourmet ingredient.
- Toasting Nuts Technique: Always toast nuts in a dry skillet and watch them closely. The moment they become fragrant, remove from heat to prevent burning.
- Salad Freshness Hack: Wash and thoroughly dry your greens before assembling. Excess moisture can make your salad soggy, so use a salad spinner or pat dry with a clean towel.
- Dressing Distribution: Drizzle your vinaigrette just before serving and toss gently to ensure every bite is perfectly seasoned without wilting the greens.
- Serve Immediately: This salad is best enjoyed fresh, so assemble and serve right away to maintain the crisp textures and vibrant flavors.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 220kcal
Carbohydrates: 22g
Protein: 6g
Fat: 14g
Saturated Fat: 3g
Cholesterol: 10mg
