This Crunchy Vegetable Salad is a refreshing and nutritious dish perfect for any meal. Packed with colorful vegetables and topped with a zesty lemon-honey dressing, it’s both healthy and delicious. Whether you serve it as a side dish or a light main course, this salad is sure to delight your taste buds.
Preparation Time:
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
Ingredients:
- 1 cucumber, thinly sliced
- 1/2 cabbage, shredded
- 1 carrot, grated
- 1 onion, thinly sliced
- 1 red pepper, thinly sliced
- 2 cloves of garlic, minced
- 20g (about a handful) nuts (such as almonds or walnuts), chopped
- Parsley, chopped, to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon honey
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce
- Juice of 1 lemon
- 1 teaspoon sesame seeds
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- Black pepper, to taste
Instructions:
Prepare the Vegetables:
- In a large salad bowl, combine the thinly sliced cucumber, shredded cabbage, grated carrot, thinly sliced onion, and thinly sliced red pepper.
Make the Dressing: 2. In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, honey, soy sauce, and lemon juice until well combined.
- Add the minced garlic to the dressing and stir.
Assemble the Salad: 4. Pour the dressing over the vegetables in the salad bowl.
- Toss everything together to ensure all the vegetables are evenly coated with the dressing.
- Season the salad with salt and black pepper.
Add the Finishing Touches: 7. Add the chopped nuts and parsley to the salad. Toss lightly to distribute them throughout the salad.
- Sprinkle sesame seeds over the top for an added crunch and flavor.
Chill and Serve: 9. Let the salad sit for about 10 minutes to allow the flavors to meld, or you can chill it in the refrigerator before serving.
Serving Suggestions:
- Serve this salad alongside grilled chicken or fish for a balanced meal.
- It also pairs well with sandwiches or as a refreshing side for a barbecue.
Cooking Tips:
- For extra crunch, you can toast the nuts lightly before adding them to the salad.
- Adjust the amount of honey and soy sauce in the dressing to suit your taste preferences.
Nutritional Benefits:
- This salad is rich in vitamins and minerals from the fresh vegetables.
- Nuts add healthy fats and protein, making the salad more filling.
- The lemon-honey dressing is a lighter alternative to creamy dressings, keeping the dish low in calories.
Dietary Information:
- This salad is naturally gluten-free and can be made vegan by using maple syrup instead of honey.
- It’s also dairy-free and suitable for most dietary preferences.
Storage:
- Store any leftover salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
- The dressing can be made ahead and stored separately for up to a week.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe:
- Quick and easy to prepare with fresh ingredients.
- Versatile and can be customized with your favorite vegetables and nuts.
- The tangy and sweet dressing enhances the natural flavors of the vegetables.
Conclusion:
This Crunchy Vegetable Salad with Lemon-Honey Dressing is a delightful addition to any meal. It’s simple to make, bursting with fresh flavors, and packed with nutrients. Whether you’re looking for a quick lunch, a side dish, or a light dinner, this salad is sure to satisfy. Enjoy the vibrant colors and flavors in every bite!