Energizing Salad

On some mornings or afternoons, when I don't have the time or inclination for something complicated, I quickly whip up this salad. Every time, I end up with a colorful plate that keeps me full for a while and doesn't require much cooking. I make it several times a month, especially when I have vegetables and fruits that need to be used up.

Quick Info

Total Time: about 20 minutes
Preparation Time: 10-12 minutes (includes chopping the vegetables and fruits)
Cooking Time: 7 minutes (for the eggs)
Servings: 2-3
Difficulty: easy
Recipe Type: hearty salad for lunch or a light dinner

Ingredients

1 head of green lettuce
1 large tomato
1 cucumber
1 apple
1 orange
2 eggs
2 tablespoons olive oil
a little crumbled telemea cheese
a slice of cheese (cut into pieces)
a few drops of soy sauce
a few drops of apple cider vinegar
dried dill
dried basil
salt and pepper to taste

Preparation Method

1. I start with the eggs. I place them in cold water on the stove, and when they start to boil, I time them for 7 minutes. I let them cool in cold water after removing them.

2. I wash all the vegetables and fruits. I separate the lettuce leaf by leaf to remove any traces of dirt. I wash the apple and orange well, especially if I plan to use the peel (usually I don't).

3. I chop the lettuce into large pieces or tear it by hand, depending on the time. I slice the tomato and cucumber. I cut the apple into thin slices. I separate the orange into slices, then break or cut them into pieces.

4. I arrange the lettuce leaves as a base on a platter or in a large bowl. On top of them, I place the rest of the vegetables and fruits: cucumber rounds, tomato slices, apple slices, and pieces of orange.

5. I crumble the telemea cheese between my fingers directly over the salad. I cut the cheese into small cubes and sprinkle them on top as well.

6. Once the eggs have cooled, I peel them and cut them into quarters or slices, depending on my mood. I place them on top of the other ingredients.

7. I drizzle a few drops of soy sauce, olive oil, and apple cider vinegar all over. I season with salt and pepper to taste, then sprinkle a little dried dill and basil.

8. Serve immediately. It doesn't hold up well if left at room temperature for too long.

Why I Make This Recipe Often

I love it because it comes together quickly, doesn't require complicated ingredients, and I can use what I already have in the fridge. It doesn't need much cooking, and it's easy to adapt based on what I find. It's hearty thanks to the eggs and cheese, but not heavy.

Tips and Variations

Tips

If you want a crunchier salad, make sure to dry the leaves well before using them.
Boiled eggs should be left to cool so they don't make the salad soggy.
Soy sauce is optional, but it adds a slightly different salty flavor, so don't use too much.

Substitutions

Cheese can be omitted or replaced with another type of softer cheese if you don't have any on hand.
Telemea can be swapped with feta or another salty cheese.
Green lettuce can be replaced with baby spinach or a mixed greens blend.

Variations

Instead of apple and orange, you can use pear or even a few grapes.
You can add sliced green onions or radishes for extra flavor.
If you want it to be more filling, add some chickpeas or cooked beans.

Serving Ideas

It works well as a main dish for lunch, alongside a slice of plain toast.
It can be an interesting side dish for a leaner meat.
You can pack everything in a container, separate from the dressing, for a work lunch (just mix when you're ready to eat).

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use other types of lettuce instead of green lettuce?
Yes, you can also use iceberg, frisée, or a mixed greens blend. Each changes the texture slightly, but the recipe remains valid.

Is soy sauce necessary?
No, but it does add a slightly different flavor. If you don't have it or don't want to use it, you can skip it. Be cautious with salt if you do use soy sauce, as it is salty.

Does the salad keep in the fridge?
If you don't put dressing all over it, it can last a day in the fridge, but the leaves may wilt. I prefer to eat it fresh.

Can I omit the eggs?
You can, but it will be a bit less filling. You can substitute with a few slices of avocado or some chickpeas.

Is it mandatory to use orange?
No. The orange adds a fresh note, but if you don't have one or don't like it, you can skip it or use another fruit.

Nutritional Values

Approximately, one serving has about 250-300 kcal. Most of the calories come from eggs, olive oil, and cheese. Protein: about 12-15 g per serving (from eggs and cheese). Fat: 16-18 g (from oil, eggs, and cheese). Carbohydrates: 16-18 g, mostly from fruits and vegetables. Values are approximate and may vary based on the exact quantities used.

Storage and Reheating

The salad doesn't keep well once the dressing is mixed in, as the leaves wilt quickly. If you want to prepare it in advance, keep the chopped ingredients separate and add the dressing just before serving. It doesn't lend itself to reheating. It's best enjoyed fresh.

 Ingredients: 1 head of green lettuce, 1 large tomato, 1 cucumber, 1 apple, 1 orange, 2 tablespoons of olive oil, a little crumbled telemea cheese, a slice of cheese cut into pieces, 2 eggs, dried dill, dried basil, a few drops of soy sauce, salt and pepper to taste, a few drops of apple cider vinegar.

 Tags:  salad