Tired of the same old dinner routine? Craving something fresh, flavorful, and surprisingly easy to make? Then look no further! This Little Gem salad recipe is your answer. It's a vibrant, healthy meal that’s perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a light and elegant lunch. This simple recipe uses readily available ingredients, making it ideal for even the busiest home cooks. Get ready to elevate your salad game!
Ingredients: Making a Delicious and Healthy Meal
This recipe easily serves two people, but feel free to double or triple it depending on your needs.
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For the Salad:
- 2 Little Gem lettuces, halved lengthwise and leaves separated
- 1/2 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1/4 cup cucumber, thinly sliced
- 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese (optional, but highly recommended!)
- 2 tablespoons toasted walnuts or pecans (optional)
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For the Dressing:
- 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice (freshly squeezed is best!)
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
Step-by-Step Instructions: Easy Recipe for Beginners
This little gem salad comes together in minutes! Follow these simple instructions for a delicious homemade meal.
Step 1: Prepare the Little Gem Lettuce
Wash the Little Gem lettuces thoroughly and pat them dry. Halve them lengthwise and gently separate the leaves. Discard any tough outer leaves.
Step 2: Chop the Vegetables
Halve the cherry tomatoes and thinly slice the cucumber. You can also add other vegetables like red onion or bell peppers for extra flavor and color.
Step 3: Make the Dressing
In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, lemon juice, Dijon mustard, and minced garlic. Season generously with salt and freshly ground black pepper. Taste and adjust seasonings as needed – a pinch of sugar can balance the acidity if you prefer.
Step 4: Assemble the Salad
Place the Little Gem lettuce leaves in a large bowl. Add the cherry tomatoes, cucumber, and feta cheese (if using). Gently toss to combine.
Step 5: Dress and Serve
Drizzle the dressing over the salad and toss gently to coat. Top with toasted walnuts or pecans (if using) before serving immediately. Enjoy this quick dinner idea!
Cooking Tips for the Best Results
- For perfectly toasted nuts: Spread the nuts on a baking sheet and toast in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 5-7 minutes, or until fragrant and lightly browned. Watch carefully to prevent burning.
- Don't overdress the salad: Start with a smaller amount of dressing and add more if needed. You want the lettuce to be coated but not soggy.
- Make it your own: Feel free to add other ingredients you enjoy, such as avocado, grilled chicken, chickpeas, or different types of cheese. Experiment to discover your perfect combination.
Variations for Delicious Dishes
- Add protein: Grilled chicken or shrimp would be delicious additions to this salad, turning it into a complete meal.
- Spice it up: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the dressing for a little heat.
- Make it creamy: Substitute the olive oil with a creamy avocado dressing for a richer flavor.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate)
This information is an estimate and may vary depending on the specific ingredients used.
- Calories: Approximately 250-300
- Fat: 15-20g
- Protein: 5-7g
- Carbohydrates: 10-15g
- Fiber: 3-5g
This Little Gem salad recipe is a simple yet elegant way to enjoy fresh, healthy ingredients. The bright flavors and satisfying crunch make it a perfect choice for any occasion. It's a quick and easy recipe that’s sure to become a new favorite in your kitchen.