Discover the vibrant flavors of the Mediterranean with our Toasted Walnut and Mixed Green Salad! This delightful dish, packed with crunchy walnuts, tangy feta, and sweet dried cranberries, is not only a feast for the eyes but also a refreshing addition to any meal. Ready in just 15 minutes, it’s the perfect quick and healthy option for busy weeknights or elegant dinner parties. Dive into this recipe and learn how to create a salad that will leave your taste buds dancing and your guests asking for seconds!
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 5 mins
Total Time: 15 mins
Cuisine: Mediterranean
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 4 cups mixed greens
- 1/2 cup toasted walnuts
- 1/4 cup feta cheese, crumbled
- 1/4 cup dried cranberries
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
Instructions
- Begin by preparing all your ingredients. Wash the mixed greens thoroughly under cold water, then spin them dry in a salad spinner or pat them dry with a clean kitchen towel. This will help prevent the salad from becoming soggy.
- Next, toast the walnuts. In a small skillet over medium heat, add the walnuts. Toast them for about 3-5 minutes, stirring frequently to ensure they do not burn. You will know they are ready when they are fragrant and lightly browned. Once toasted, remove them from the heat and let them cool slightly.
- In a large salad bowl, combine the mixed greens, toasted walnuts, crumbled feta cheese, and dried cranberries. Gently toss the ingredients together to distribute them evenly.
- In a separate small bowl, prepare the dressing by whisking together the olive oil and lemon juice. You can adjust the amount of lemon juice to taste, depending on how tangy you prefer your dressing.
- Drizzle the dressing over the salad mixture. Toss the salad gently to ensure that the greens and toppings are well coated with the dressing.
- Once everything is combined, taste the salad and adjust the seasoning if necessary. You can add salt and pepper to taste, but be mindful of the saltiness from the feta cheese.
- Serve the salad immediately on individual plates or in a large serving bowl. Enjoy your Toasted Walnut and Mixed Green Salad as a refreshing appetizer or side dish!
Tips
- Prep Ahead: To save time, wash and dry your mixed greens ahead of time. Store them in an airtight container in the fridge, and they’ll be ready to use when you need them.
- Perfectly Toasted Walnuts: Keep a close eye on the walnuts while toasting. They can go from perfectly golden to burnt in a matter of seconds! Stir them frequently to achieve an even toast.
- Customize Your Salad: Feel free to add other ingredients like sliced apples, pears, or even grilled chicken for a heartier salad. The possibilities are endless!
- Dress to Impress: For an extra flavor boost, try adding a teaspoon of honey or Dijon mustard to your dressing. It will elevate the taste and add a delightful complexity.
- Serving Suggestions: This salad pairs beautifully with grilled meats or can be served as a light lunch on its own. Consider adding a slice of crusty bread on the side for a complete meal.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 250kcal
Carbohydrates: g
Protein: g
Fat: g
Saturated Fat: g
Cholesterol: 5mg
