Craving a quick, nutritious, and absolutely delicious salad that will make your taste buds dance? Look no further! This American-style Vegetable Salad is not just a side dish – it's a vibrant explosion of colors, textures, and flavors that will elevate any meal from ordinary to extraordinary. In just 15 minutes, you'll create a masterpiece that's as easy to prepare as it is stunning to serve.
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: -
Total Time: 15 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 1 cup lettuce, chopped
- 1 carrot, grated
- 1 bell pepper, diced
- 1/2 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1/4 cup olives, sliced
- 1/4 cup dressing of choice
Instructions
- Wash all fresh vegetables thoroughly under cool running water to remove any dirt or debris.
- Using a sharp knife, chop the lettuce into bite-sized pieces and place in a large mixing bowl.
- Peel the carrot and use a box grater to grate it into fine, uniform shreds.
- Rinse the bell pepper, remove seeds and stem, then dice into small, even cubes.
- Halve the cherry tomatoes by cutting them vertically from stem to bottom.
- Slice the olives into thin, uniform rings.
- Add grated carrots, diced bell peppers, halved cherry tomatoes, and sliced olives to the bowl with chopped lettuce.
- Gently toss all vegetables together to create an even mixture.
- Drizzle your chosen dressing over the salad, ensuring even coverage.
- Use salad tongs or two large spoons to mix the dressing into the vegetables thoroughly.
- Serve immediately in individual salad bowls or on a large serving platter.
Tips
- Always wash your vegetables thoroughly to ensure food safety and remove any potential dirt or pesticides.
- Use a sharp knife for precise cutting to maintain uniform vegetable sizes, which helps with even dressing distribution.
- For the freshest taste, prepare the salad just before serving to keep vegetables crisp and vibrant.
- Experiment with different dressings to change the flavor profile – try a tangy vinaigrette or a creamy ranch.
- For added nutrition, consider topping with protein like grilled chicken or chickpeas.
- Choose fresh, seasonal vegetables for the best flavor and nutritional value.
- If preparing in advance, keep dressing separate and add just before serving to prevent soggy vegetables.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 50kcal
Carbohydrates: 8g
Protein: 2g
Fat: 3g
Saturated Fat: g
Cholesterol: 0mg
