Healthy Green Salad Recipe

The keyword for this article is "healthy green salad recipe." This simple yet nutrient-packed dish is perfect for anyone looking to start the day with a fresh and energizing meal. A healthy green salad not only provides essential vitamins but also helps maintain balanced eating habits.

Preparing a healthy green salad can be done in less than 30 minutes, making it an ideal option for busy mornings or casual dinners at home. This recipe serves four people generously, ensuring that you and your family get the best out of each bite.

Ingredients

• 4 cups mixed greens (such as spinach, arugula, and romaine)
• 1 cucumber, sliced into thin rounds
• 1 large tomato, chopped into small pieces
• 1/2 red onion, thinly sliced
• 1 avocado, diced
• 3 tablespoons olive oil
• 2 tablespoons lemon juice
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

Begin by washing all the greens thoroughly under running water. Spin them dry on a clean kitchen towel or pat with paper towels.

In a large mixing bowl, gently combine the washed greens, cucumber slices, tomato pieces, and sliced red onion. Make sure to handle the greens carefully so that they do not get bruised.

Next, add the avocado into the mixture. It's best to add it last as it can turn brown once cut. Gently toss all ingredients together until everything is evenly distributed in the bowl.

Drizzle 3 tablespoons of olive oil and sprinkle with lemon juice over the salad. Season with salt and pepper according to your preference. Toss again so that the dressing coats each leaf uniformly.

Cooking Time & Serving Size

This healthy green salad recipe takes approximately 15 minutes to prepare, including washing the greens and chopping vegetables. Once ready, you can serve four portions which will be enough for a light lunch or dinner.

For best results, consume your salad as soon after preparation as possible. However, if storing it in an airtight container, refrigerate leftovers within two hours of making to maintain freshness and quality.

Nutritional Benefits

A healthy green salad like this one is not only delicious but also packed with nutrients essential for good health. Mixed greens provide vitamins A, C, K along with folate which support bone growth and cardiovascular function. Tomatoes help fight against free radicals while avocado contributes monounsaturated fats beneficial for heart health.

The olive oil used in this dish serves as a source of vitamin E, which protects cells from oxidative stress. Lemon juice adds flavor and is rich in antioxidants that aid digestion. By eating such salads regularly, you may notice improved skin condition, enhanced immune system response, and overall better energy levels throughout the day.

Additional Tips

1. You could experiment with different types of greens like watercress or endive for added texture.
2. If avocados aren't available, you can use other fruits such as pomegranate seeds or dried cranberries instead.
3. To add more protein to this meal, consider adding grilled chicken breast or boiled eggs on top when serving.

Conclusion

Incorporating a healthy green salad into your daily routine is an easy way to boost nutrition without complicating meal planning. Whether enjoyed alone or paired with additional components, this versatile recipe offers endless possibilities for customization and satisfaction. Try making it today and enjoy the many benefits that come from eating fresh greens!