Are you looking for a refreshing and vibrant salad that’s perfect for your next summer barbecue or picnic? Look no further! This Red, White, and Blue Salad is not only incredibly delicious but also stunningly patriotic, making it ideal for the Fourth of July or any celebratory occasion. This easy recipe is packed with fresh, healthy ingredients, making it a guilt-free delight you'll want to make again and again. It's a perfect example of homemade cooking at its finest, combining simple ingredients into a beautiful and flavorful dish. This quick dinner idea is also easily adaptable, so you can customize it to your liking. Ready to dive in?
Ingredients:
- 4 cups fresh strawberries, hulled and sliced
- 2 cups blueberries
- 1 cup crumbled feta cheese
- 2 cups shredded red cabbage (about half a small head)
- ½ cup chopped red onion
- ¼ cup chopped fresh basil
For the Dressing:
- ¼ cup olive oil
- 2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar
- 1 tablespoon honey
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
Instructions:
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Prep the Ingredients: Begin by washing and preparing all your fruits and vegetables. Slice the strawberries, chop the red onion and basil, and shred the red cabbage. This step ensures everything is ready for quick assembly.
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Combine the Salad: In a large bowl, gently toss together the sliced strawberries, blueberries, red cabbage, red onion, and basil. Be careful not to bruise the berries.
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Make the Dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, balsamic vinegar, honey, and Dijon mustard. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Adjust the honey to your preferred sweetness.
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Dress the Salad: Pour the dressing over the salad and toss gently to coat everything evenly. Try to avoid over-dressing the salad, as you want the vegetables to retain some of their crispness.
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Add Feta: Just before serving, gently fold in the crumbled feta cheese. This prevents the cheese from becoming soggy.
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Serve and Enjoy: Serve your Red, White, and Blue Salad immediately for the best flavor and texture. It’s perfect as a side dish or a light meal on its own.
Cooking Tips for the Best Red, White & Blue Salad:
- Choose ripe berries: The flavor of your salad will depend heavily on the quality of your strawberries and blueberries. Select berries that are plump and fragrant.
- Don't overdress: A little dressing goes a long way. Start with a smaller amount and add more if needed.
- Add some crunch: For extra texture, consider adding some toasted pecans or walnuts.
- Make it ahead: The salad can be prepared a few hours ahead of time, but it's best to add the feta cheese just before serving to prevent it from becoming watery.
Variations:
- Add protein: Grilled chicken or shrimp would make this salad a more substantial meal.
- Swap the cheese: Goat cheese or mozzarella are delicious alternatives to feta.
- Spice it up: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a little kick.
- Change the greens: Arugula or spinach could add a more peppery flavor.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
This information is approximate and will vary depending on the specific ingredients used.
- Calories: Around 200-250
- Fat: 10-15g
- Protein: 5-7g
- Carbohydrates: 20-25g
- Fiber: 3-5g
This Red, White, and Blue Salad is a delightful and healthy recipe perfect for any occasion. Its vibrant colors and fresh flavors are sure to impress your guests, making it one of your best recipes yet. Enjoy!