Best 2 Big Green Salad Recipes

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Are you looking for a delicious and nutritious way to enjoy your favorite vegetables? Look no further than the big green salad! This salad combines a variety of fresh, crisp vegetables with a light vinaigrette dressing, making it a perfect light meal or side dish. Whether you're a vegetarian or simply looking to add more veggies to your diet, the big green salad is a great option.

Check out the recipes below so you can choose the best recipe for yourself!

BIG GREEN LENTIL SALAD



Big Green Lentil Salad image

Cool yogurt, crunchy seeds, and herbs turn lentils into a lunch salad you'll actually be excited to eat.

Provided by Heidi Swanson

Categories     Bon Appétit     Dinner     Salad     Lentil     Quick & Easy     Quick and Healthy     Healthy     Avocado     Arugula     Basil     Yogurt

Yield 4 servings

Number Of Ingredients 12

1 1/2 cups green lentils, rinsed
3/4 tsp. kosher salt, divided, plus more
1 1/3 cups plain Greek yogurt
2 garlic cloves, finely chopped
1/2 tsp. ground turmeric
Freshly ground black pepper
1 cup unsalted, roasted sunflower seeds
1 Tbsp. plus 1 1/2 tsp. fresh lemon juice
3 Tbsp. extra-virgin olive oil, plus more for drizzling
1 ripe avocado, cut into cubes
1 cup baby arugula
1 cup basil leaves, torn if large

Steps:

  • Cook lentils in a large saucepan of simmering salted water until they are tender but still retain their shape, 20-30 minutes. Drain, rinse under cold running water, and drain well again.
  • Mix yogurt, garlic, turmeric, 1/4 tsp. salt, and a generous grind of pepper in a small bowl to combine; set aside.
  • Toss lentils, sunflower seeds, lemon juice, 3 Tbsp. oil, and remaining 1/2 tsp. salt in a large bowl. Gently fold in avocado, arugula, and basil.
  • Spread reserved yogurt sauce across a platter and spoon lentil mixture on top; drizzle with oil.

BIG GREEN SALAD



Big Green Salad image

Provided by Ian Knauer

Categories     Salad     Mustard     Side     No-Cook     Vegetarian     Quick & Easy     Salad Dressing     Lemon     Celery     Cucumber     Honey     Lettuce     Gourmet     Pescatarian     Paleo     Dairy Free     Wheat/Gluten-Free     Peanut Free     Tree Nut Free     Soy Free     Kosher

Yield Makes 6 servings

Number Of Ingredients 7

2 medium heads romaine
1/2 seedless cucumber
2 celery ribs, thinly sliced
3 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil
1 1/2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
1 teaspoon mild honey
1 teaspoon Dijon mustard

Steps:

  • Tear romaine into bite-size pieces and put in a salad bowl. Halve cucumber lengthwise, then thinly slice diagonally and add to romaine along with celery.
  • Whisk together remaining ingredients with 1/2 teaspoon salt and 1/4 teaspoon pepper in a small bowl until emulsified. Add to salad and toss to coat.

Tips

  • Utilize a Variety of Greens: Incorporate various leafy greens like arugula, romaine, spinach, or kale to add texture and nutritional value.
  • Select Fresh, Vibrant Greens: Choose greens that are crisp, brightly colored, and free from blemishes or wilting.
  • Wash Greens Properly: Thoroughly wash greens under cold water to remove any dirt or debris.
  • Smartly Select Toppings: Opt for toppings that complement the flavors and textures of the greens, such as nuts, seeds, dried fruits, or crumbled cheese.
  • Craft a Balanced Dressing: Create a dressing that strikes a balance between acidity, sweetness, and richness. Experiment with different ratios of vinegar, oil, sweeteners, and herbs.
  • Dress the Salad Lightly: Drizzle just enough dressing to coat the greens without making them soggy.
  • Toss the Salad Gently: Use tongs or your hands to gently toss the salad, ensuring that the dressing is evenly distributed.
  • Chill the Salad Before Serving: If possible, chill the salad for at least 30 minutes before serving to enhance its flavors and textures.

Conclusion

Crafting a big, beautiful, and delectable salad is an art form that requires careful consideration of ingredients, flavors, and textures. By following the tips and techniques outlined above, you can create a salad that is not only visually appealing but also bursting with flavor and nutrition. Experiment with different combinations of greens, toppings, and dressings to discover your own unique salad masterpieces. Remember, the key to a successful salad lies in the freshness of the ingredients, the balance of flavors, and the attention to detail.

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