Simple Green Salad
This simple green salad is the epitome of fresh, vibrant flavors. With crisp lettuce, creamy avocado, and a zesty lemon vinaigrette, it’s the perfect side dish to complement any meal.
Topped with roasted tamari almonds and a sprinkle of microgreens, this salad offers a delightful crunch and nutty depth. The shaved Parmesan adds a touch of richness, balancing the refreshing ingredients.
Whether you’re serving it alongside a hearty dinner or enjoying it as a light lunch, this salad is a versatile and satisfying choice that’s sure to please any palate.
Simple Green Salad Ingredients
A bed of soft, tender lettuce forms the base of this vibrant salad, providing a fresh, crisp foundation. The creamy avocado adds richness, balancing the salad’s texture with its smoothness.
Thinly sliced Persian cucumber offers a cool, refreshing crunch, while the nutty roasted tamari almonds bring a savory depth. Shaved Parmesan enhances the salad’s flavor profile with a sharp, yet delicate bite.
Pepitas add a light, earthy crunch, and the microgreens finish the dish with a burst of freshness. A drizzle of lemon vinaigrette ties everything together with a zesty, bright tang.
Simple Green Salad Recipe Tips
- Freshness is Key: For the best flavor and texture, use freshly washed and dried lettuce. Soft varieties like butter lettuce or even arugula work beautifully in this salad, adding a tender base that enhances the overall freshness of the dish. If the lettuce is too wet, it can dilute the vinaigrette and affect the crunchiness.
- Customize the Vinaigrette: While the lemon vinaigrette gives this salad a zesty kick, feel free to adjust the dressing to your taste. You can add a little honey for sweetness or a touch of Dijon mustard for extra tang. This flexibility allows you to make the dressing work with a variety of flavors.
- Perfecting the Almonds: Roasting the almonds is crucial for bringing out their nutty flavor. Make sure to watch them closely as they bake to avoid burning. The tamari adds a savory depth, but if you’re looking for a milder flavor, you can substitute soy sauce or leave them out entirely for a lighter crunch.
What to Serve with Simple Green Salad
- Grilled Chicken or Fish: Pairing this simple green salad with a protein, like grilled chicken breast or seared salmon, makes for a well-rounded meal. The light, refreshing qualities of the salad balance the savory richness of the protein, making it a perfect side dish for any grilled or roasted meat.
- Quinoa or Couscous: For a more filling meal, serve this salad with a side of fluffy quinoa or couscous. Both grains complement the salad’s fresh ingredients while adding texture and making the dish more substantial. They also pair wonderfully with the lemon vinaigrette for an extra burst of flavor.
- Warm, Crusty Bread: Serve this salad alongside a slice of warm, crusty bread to round out the meal. The bread soaks up the dressing and offers a satisfying contrast to the crispness of the salad. Add a dollop of olive oil or butter to elevate the experience.
FAQ
1. Can I prepare the salad ahead of time?
While the salad ingredients can be prepped ahead of time, it’s best to assemble the salad right before serving to maintain its crisp texture. The avocado, in particular, can brown if left too long.
2. Can I use a different nut instead of almonds?
Yes! If almonds aren’t your favorite, try using walnuts, pecans, or cashews for a similar crunch. Roasting them with tamari will still bring out a savory, flavorful bite.
3. How long will the roasted almonds last?
The roasted tamari almonds can be stored in an airtight container for up to one week. If you make extra, they also make a great snack on their own!
4. Is this salad vegetarian or vegan?
This simple green salad is vegetarian, thanks to the Parmesan cheese. To make it vegan, simply omit the cheese or substitute with a plant-based alternative like vegan Parmesan.
Simple Green Salad
Ingredients
- Soft lettuce such as butter lettuce or a similar variety
- Lemon vinaigrette half recipe
- Thinly sliced Persian cucumber
- Shaved Parmesan cheese
- Pepitas pumpkin seeds
- Sliced avocado
- Microgreens
- Optional: flaky sea salt
- Roasted Tamari Almonds
- Raw almonds
- Tamari sauce
Instructions
- Roast the almonds: Begin by preheating the oven to 350°F. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and spread the raw almonds in a single layer. Drizzle with tamari and toss to coat evenly. Bake for 10 to 14 minutes, or until the almonds are golden brown. Allow them to cool for about 5 minutes.
- Assemble the salad: In a large mixing bowl, toss the soft lettuce with a few spoonfuls of the lemon vinaigrette until evenly coated. Add the cucumber, Parmesan, pepitas, and avocado. Top with the roasted tamari almonds and drizzle with additional dressing. Finish by garnishing with microgreens and seasoning with flaky sea salt, if desired.
