Simple salad

Simple salad with cheese and tomatoes

After a period of hearty meat dishes, a simple salad is exactly what we need to bring a touch of freshness and health to our diet. This recipe is easy to prepare, full of vitamins and minerals, and can be adapted to individual preferences. It will surely become a favorite choice, especially on warm summer days.

Preparation time: 15 minutes
Number of servings: 4

Essential ingredients:

- 1 head of lettuce (about 250g)
- 300g tomatoes (preferably cherry or medium-sized for a sweeter taste)
- 300g cheese (feta or goat cheese for a stronger flavor)
- 3 cloves of garlic (for added flavor)
- 50ml extra virgin olive oil (for a healthy dressing)
- 30ml freshly squeezed lemon juice (for a tangy note)

Preparing the salad:

1. Preparing the ingredients: Start by washing the lettuce thoroughly under cold running water. It is important to remove any impurities or pesticides. After washing, place the lettuce in a salad spinner or on a clean towel to dry it well. Wet lettuce will dilute the dressing and make the salad soggy.

2. Cutting: Tear the lettuce into large pieces with your hands. Cutting with a knife can oxidize the leaves and make them wilt faster.

3. Tomatoes: Wash the tomatoes and cut them in half or quarters, depending on their size. If using cherry tomatoes, you can leave them whole for a more attractive look.

4. Cheese: Cut the cheese into small cubes or crumble it with a fork, depending on the desired texture. If you choose feta cheese, make sure it is well-drained to avoid a soggy salad.

5. Garlic: Peel the garlic cloves and crush them slightly with the blade of a knife to release their flavors. You can chop them finely or add them whole if you prefer a stronger taste.

6. Assembling: In a large bowl, combine all the ingredients: torn lettuce, tomatoes, cheese, and garlic. Gently mix with a spatula or your hands to avoid crushing the tomatoes.

7. Dressing: In a small bowl, mix the olive oil and lemon juice. Add salt and pepper to taste. You can also experiment with fresh or dried herbs, such as oregano or basil, to add extra flavor.

8. Serving: Pour the dressing over the salad and mix gently. Serve immediately to enjoy the freshness of the ingredients.

Tips and useful advice:

- It is important to choose fresh ingredients. A good salad depends on the quality of the ingredients.
- You can substitute feta cheese with mozzarella or ricotta for a milder version.
- If you want a heartier salad, you can add avocado, olives, or even nuts for extra crunch.
- Instead of garlic, you can use green onions for a milder taste.

Calories and nutritional benefits:

This simple salad is an excellent choice for a light meal. One serving contains about 200 calories, depending on the amount of oil used. It is rich in vitamins (A, C, K) and minerals (calcium, potassium), and has antioxidant properties due to the tomatoes and garlic. Eating this salad will make you feel energized and satisfied without feeling heavy.

Frequently asked questions:

1. Can I add other vegetables to the salad?
Absolutely! Cucumbers, bell peppers, and carrots are excellent additions.

2. How can I keep the salad fresh?
To keep the salad fresh, store the ingredients separately, and the dressing in another container. Mix them only before serving.

3. Is this salad suitable for vegans?
Yes, you can replace the cheese with a tofu product or vegan cheese.

Combining the salad:

This simple salad pairs perfectly with grilled fish or chicken, but can also be served as a side dish alongside a main course. It offers a contrast of textures and flavors, making it ideal for a light lunch or informal dinner.

In conclusion, this simple salad is not only healthy but also versatile. You can experiment with different ingredients and dressings, transforming it into your favorite dish. Don’t forget to enjoy every bite and share the recipe with loved ones. Cooking is an art, and each recipe is an opportunity to leave your personal mark!