Fresh & Crisp Low-Calorie, Low-Salt Garden Salad 🥗🌿

This vibrant and refreshing salad is perfect for those who want to indulge in a healthy dish without sacrificing flavor. Bursting with color and texture, it combines fresh vegetables and a zesty dressing that livens up any meal. Enjoy it as a light lunch, a side dish, or as part of a larger spread at your next gathering!

Ingredients

For the salad

• 2 cups of mixed greens (spinach, arugula, and romaine)
• 1 cup of cherry tomatoes, halved
• 1 cucumber, diced
• 1 bell pepper (any color), chopped
• 1 small red onion, thinly sliced
• 1/2 cup of shredded carrots
• 1/4 cup of fresh parsley, chopped
• 1/4 cup of radishes, sliced (optional)

For the dressing

• 2 tablespoons of apple cider vinegar
• 1 tablespoon of lemon juice
• 1 teaspoon of Dijon mustard (look for low-sodium)
• 1 teaspoon of honey or maple syrup (optional for sweetness)
• 1 tablespoon of olive oil
• Freshly cracked black pepper to taste
• Pinch of garlic powder

Instructions

1. In a large salad bowl, combine the mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, bell pepper, red onion, shredded carrots, parsley, and radishes if using.

🌱 Feel free to add any other favorite veggies you have on hand, like zucchini or snap peas. Just keep the proportions similar for balance in flavor and texture!

2. In a separate small bowl, whisk together the apple cider vinegar, lemon juice, Dijon mustard, honey or maple syrup (if using), olive oil, black pepper, and garlic powder until well combined.

🍋 Adjust the acidity by adding more lemon juice or vinegar to taste, depending on your preference for tanginess.

3. Drizzle the dressing over the salad and toss gently to combine, ensuring all the ingredients are coated.

🥄 For an extra crunch, consider adding a handful of toasted nuts or seeds like sunflower seeds, which can provide healthy fats without overwhelming calories.

4. Serve immediately for the freshest taste, or refrigerate for 15-30 minutes to let the flavors meld before serving.

Variations

• Add Protein: Toss in grilled chicken breast, chickpeas, or quinoa for extra protein and staying power. 🍗🍚
• Herb-Infused: Include fresh herbs such as basil, cilantro, or dill for a burst of flavor.
• Spicy Twist: Add jalapeño slices for a spicy kick or sprinkle some red pepper flakes in the dressing.
• Fruit Addition: Toss in some sliced strawberries, oranges, or blueberries for sweetness and a pop of color. 🍓🍊

Enjoy your fresh and crisp, low-calorie garden salad—it's not just healthy but also a delightful feast for the eyes!