Ingredients
Scale
Salad Ingredients
- 2 cups mixed greens (arugula, spinach, romaine)
- 1 avocado, cubed or sliced
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1/2 cucumber, peeled and chopped
- 1/4 red onion, thinly sliced
- 1/4 cup walnuts or pecans, toasted
- 1/4 cup feta cheese, crumbled
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
- 2 tablespoons fresh basil, chopped
Dressing Ingredients
- 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
- 3 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
- 1 teaspoon honey or agave syrup
- Salt, to taste
- Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
Instructions
- Prepare the Greens: Thoroughly wash the mixed greens and let them dry completely to ensure your salad stays crisp and fresh without becoming soggy.
- Slice and Dice Fresh Veggies: Halve the cherry tomatoes, peel and chop the cucumber into bite-sized pieces, and thinly slice the red onion. Cut the avocado into cubes or slices just before assembling to prevent browning.
- Toast the Nuts: In a dry skillet over medium heat, toast the walnuts or pecans until fragrant and golden, about 3-5 minutes, taking care to avoid burning them.
- Mix the Dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together fresh lemon juice, extra virgin olive oil, honey (or agave), salt, and pepper until fully emulsified. Taste and adjust seasoning for a bright and slightly sweet balance.
- Combine and Toss: In a large salad bowl, combine the greens, tomatoes, cucumber, onion, toasted nuts, and avocado. Drizzle the dressing over the salad and gently toss to coat all ingredients evenly.
- Add Feta and Herbs: Sprinkle crumbled feta cheese and freshly chopped parsley and basil on top. Toss gently once more or leave feta as a garnish for an attractive presentation.
Notes
- Use the freshest ingredients available for the best flavor and texture.
- Do not overdress the salad; apply just enough dressing to lightly coat the greens to avoid sogginess.
- Watch the nuts closely while toasting to prevent burning and bitterness.
- Add avocado last to prevent it from browning.
- Chill all salad ingredients before assembling for a refreshing experience.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 5 minutes
- Category: Appetizers
- Method: No Cooking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Gluten Free
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 250 kcal
- Sugar: 5 g
- Sodium: 220 mg
- Fat: 20 g
- Saturated Fat: 4 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 15 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 10 g
- Fiber: 5 g
- Protein: 5 g
- Cholesterol: 12 mg
Keywords: Jennifer Aniston Salad, summer salad, healthy salad, gluten free, easy salad recipe, fresh greens salad, lemon dressing