Embrace the vibrant flavors of the season with this Fresh Summer Salad, a delightful combination of garden-fresh vegetables, juicy fruits, and a hint of tangy citrus. Perfect for picnics, barbecues, or a light lunch, this salad highlights the natural sweetness of summer produce with a refreshing twist. Topped with creamy feta cheese and crunchy sunflower seeds, every bite is a burst of texture and taste. This easy-to-make dish not only adds a pop of color to your table but is also packed with essential nutrients, making it a healthy and flavorful addition to any meal.
Ingredients:
- 2 cups mixed greens (arugula, spinach, or lettuce)
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 cucumber, thinly sliced
- 1 cup strawberries, hulled and sliced
- ½ red onion, thinly sliced
- ½ cup crumbled feta cheese
- ¼ cup sunflower seeds or pumpkin seeds
- 1 avocado, sliced
- Fresh basil leaves for garnish
For the Dressing:
- 3 tbsp extra-virgin olive oil
- 1 tbsp lemon juice
- 1 tbsp balsamic vinegar
- 1 tsp honey or maple syrup
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
Instructions:
- In a large salad bowl, combine the mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, strawberries, and red onion.
- Gently toss the salad ingredients to distribute them evenly.
- Arrange the sliced avocado and crumbled feta cheese on top of the salad.
- Sprinkle with sunflower seeds for added crunch.
- In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, lemon juice, balsamic vinegar, honey, salt, and pepper until well combined.
- Drizzle the dressing over the salad just before serving.
- Garnish with fresh basil leaves and serve immediately for the best taste.
Enjoy this salad as a standalone dish or pair it with grilled chicken or fish for a more substantial meal.
