Why Lemon Vinaigrette Salad is a Great Idea
If you’re looking for a light and refreshing salad that’s packed with flavor, look no further than this lemon vinaigrette salad. The tangy lemon vinaigrette adds a burst of flavor to the crisp mixed greens, sliced cucumber, sliced red bell pepper, chopped red onion, crumbled feta cheese, and creamy avocado. This salad is perfect for a light lunch or as a side dish for dinner. Plus, it’s vegetarian, healthy, and easy to make!
Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this lemon vinaigrette salad for 4 portions:
- 4 cups mixed greens
- 1 cucumber, sliced
- 1 red bell pepper, sliced
- 1 avocado, sliced
- 1/4 cup chopped red onion
- 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon honey
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
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In a large bowl, combine the mixed greens, sliced cucumber, sliced red bell pepper, chopped red onion, and crumbled feta cheese.
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In a separate small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, fresh lemon juice, minced garlic, honey, salt, and pepper to make the lemon vinaigrette.
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Drizzle the lemon vinaigrette over the salad and toss to combine.
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Top the salad with sliced avocado and serve immediately.
Variations
- To make this salad vegan, simply omit the feta cheese.
- For added protein, you can add grilled chicken, shrimp, or tofu to the salad.
- If you don’t have red bell pepper, you can use yellow or orange bell pepper instead.
- If you don’t like avocado, you can leave it out or substitute it with sliced cherry tomatoes or chopped cucumbers.
- You can also add some toasted nuts or seeds, such as almonds, pecans, or sunflower seeds, for added crunch.
Conclusion
This lemon vinaigrette salad is a delicious and refreshing way to enjoy your veggies. The tangy lemon vinaigrette adds a burst of flavor to the crisp mixed greens, sliced cucumber, sliced red bell pepper, chopped red onion, crumbled feta cheese, and creamy avocado. It’s perfect for a light lunch or as a side dish for dinner. Plus, it’s vegetarian, healthy, and easy to make!
FAQ
Can I substitute lemon juice with another type of citrus juice?
Yes, you can substitute lemon juice with other citrus juices such as lime or grapefruit juice, but keep in mind that it will change the flavor of the vinaigrette.
How long will the vinaigrette last in the fridge?
The vinaigrette can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to a week.
Can I add honey to the vinaigrette to make it sweeter?
Yes, you can add honey or other sweeteners to the vinaigrette to make it sweeter, but start with a small amount and adjust to your taste.
Can I use olive oil instead of vegetable oil?
Yes, you can use olive oil instead of vegetable oil, but keep in mind that olive oil has a stronger flavor than vegetable oil and it may affect the overall taste of the vinaigrette.
Can I use dried herbs instead of fresh herbs?
Yes, you can use dried herbs instead of fresh herbs, but keep in mind that the flavor won’t be as fresh and vibrant as using fresh herbs. Use half the amount of dried herbs as the recipe calls for fresh herbs.
Can I make the vinaigrette ahead of time?
Yes, you can make the vinaigrette ahead of time and store it in an airtight container in the fridge until ready to use. Give it a good shake or stir before serving.
Can I use this vinaigrette on other types of salads?
Yes, you can use this vinaigrette on other types of salads such as spinach, arugula, or mixed greens.
Can I add other ingredients to the salad?
Yes, you can add other ingredients to the salad such as sliced avocado, chopped nuts, or crumbled cheese. Customize it to your liking!
Can I use this vinaigrette as a marinade for meat?
Yes, you can use this vinaigrette as a marinade for meat such as chicken or fish. Marinate the meat for at least 30 minutes before grilling or baking.
Can I make the vinaigrette without mustard?
Yes, you can make the vinaigrette without mustard, but keep in mind that the mustard helps to emulsify the vinaigrette and keep it from separating. If you omit the mustard, the vinaigrette may separate more easily.
