Raw vegetable salad

Colorful and fresh vegetable salad

Preparation time: 15 minutes
Total time: 15 minutes
Number of servings: 4

For warm days or as a side dish to a main course, the vegetable salad is the perfect choice. This simple and quick recipe, full of flavors and textures, will bring a splash of color and freshness to your plate. I will guide you step by step to achieve a delicious salad.

Ingredients:
- 1 red onion
- 4 radishes
- 2 tomatoes
- 1 bell pepper
- 1 lettuce
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Juice of 1/2 lemon
- 2 tablespoons of olive oil
- 50g feta cheese (optional, but recommended for extra flavor)

Preparation:

1. Prepare the ingredients: Start by washing all the vegetables under cold running water. Make sure to choose a tender lettuce, preferably from a local source, for a more pronounced taste. The red onion, with its sweet aroma, will add a special note to the salad.

2. Cutting the vegetables:
- Slice the red onion into thin strips. If you prefer a milder flavor, you can soak it in cold water for 10 minutes before adding it to the salad.
- Cut the radishes into thin slices; their crunchy texture will add a pleasant contrast.
- Cut the tomatoes into slices or cubes, depending on your preference. Choose ripe but firm tomatoes to avoid excess juice.
- Cut the bell pepper into strips or large cubes, offering a note of sweetness and vibrant color.
- Tear the lettuce into smaller pieces for easier serving.

3. Mixing the ingredients: In a large bowl, add all the chopped vegetables. Sprinkle salt and pepper to taste, being careful not to overdo it with the salt, as the feta will also add flavor.

4. The dressing: In a small container, combine the lemon juice with the olive oil. Shake well or mix with a fork until you get a smooth dressing. This will add a fresh taste and enhance the flavors of the vegetables.

5. Finishing the salad: Pour the dressing over the vegetables and mix gently until each ingredient is well coated. If you choose to use feta, crumble it over the salad and mix gently.

6. Serving: The vegetable salad can be served immediately, but it is even better if you let it sit in the fridge for 10-15 minutes. This time allows the flavors to meld together. You can serve it as a side dish to grilled meat or simply as a light appetizer.

Practical tips:
- You can replace feta with goat cheese or mozzarella for a possibly less salty option.
- Add some olives or avocado to enrich the salad.
- Experiment with different types of dressings, such as a yogurt sauce or balsamic dressing to change the flavor profile.

This vegetable salad is not only healthy but also full of freshness and colors, making it perfect for any meal. Enjoy every bite!