Perfectly Balanced Salad: A Refreshing Twist on Classic Greens

Looking for a refreshing and nutritious meal that will invigorate your taste buds? The Perfectly Balanced Salad is the perfect choice! It brings together the best of crisp vegetables, tangy fruits, and zesty dressing. Whether you're hosting a picnic or looking to have a light lunch, this salad serves as an ideal dish.

Ingredients:

• Cored apple
• Leafy greens (such as mixed lettuce)
• Sliced cucumber
• Chopped red onion
• Crumbled feta cheese (optional)
• Vegan or traditional mayonnaise for the dressing

Cooking Time: 10 minutes

Number of Servings: 4 servings

Instructions:

Begin by washing your produce thoroughly to ensure that all dirt and pesticides are removed. For the apple, slice it thinly into small pieces using a knife or mandoline for uniformity.

Mix the chopped cucumber and sliced red onion in a separate bowl. Add the leafy greens on top of this mixture. It’s important not to over-mix at this stage because you want your salad components to remain crisp rather than soft and wilted.

Once all ingredients are prepped, it's time to prepare the dressing. In another bowl, mix together vegan mayonnaise with apple cider vinegar for a zesty flavor or use traditional mayonnaise if preferred. Season it according to taste; salt, pepper, and any other herbs you might enjoy.

Now comes the fun part! Gently combine all ingredients into one bowl. Be careful not to over-mix again, as this could cause some of the salad’s components to lose their crispness. Sprinkle crumbled feta cheese over your Perfectly Balanced Salad if you choose to include it for a touch of saltiness and creaminess.

To serve, simply divide among four plates or bowls. This makes one perfect serving per plate. Enjoy your perfectly balanced salad right away as it holds well but loses its crispness after some time.

Health Benefits:

This dish is rich in vitamins A and C provided by apples and cucumbers, contributing to skin health and boosting the immune system. Feta cheese adds calcium for strong bones while leafy greens provide essential nutrients like iron, magnesium, potassium, copper, manganese, folate, and dietary fiber.

Pairing Suggestions:

1. Enjoy this salad with a side of whole grain bread or tortilla chips to make it a complete meal.
2. Potatoes can complement this dish nicely as you could have them boiled and served on the side.

The Perfectly Balanced Salad is not just about satisfying your hunger but also enriching your health. It's simple yet delightful, making it suitable for various occasions like casual dinners or elegant gatherings.