Mozzarella and avocado salad

Mozzarella and Avocado Salad - An Explosion of Freshness on Your Plate

Preparation time: 10 minutes
Total time: 10 minutes
Servings: 2

In a world where we want to enjoy delicious meals while taking care of our health, salads are often the undisputed stars. The mozzarella and avocado salad is an excellent choice, packed with vitamins and minerals, that can be served both as a main dish and as a side to a juicy steak. This simple and quick recipe, which takes just a few minutes to prepare, is perfect for hot summer days or for a light and healthy dinner.

The history of salads with cheese and fruits is an old one, combining various textures and flavors, from creamy cheese to sweet and hearty fruits. Mozzarella, with its soft texture and delicate taste, pairs perfectly with avocado, the fruit rich in healthy fats, creating a symphony of flavors.

Ingredients:
- 1 pack of mozzarella (about 125 g)
- 1 Iceberg lettuce
- 1 ripe avocado
- 1 small red onion
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon freshly ground pepper
- 2-3 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
- 1-2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar or apple cider vinegar

Step by Step for a Perfect Salad:

1. Preparing the Iceberg Lettuce: Start by cleaning the Iceberg lettuce. Cut the core and remove wilted leaves. Wash them under a stream of cold water to remove any impurities. Choose only the freshest leaves, as they will add crunch to your salad. After washing, you can dry them with paper towels or let them drain.

2. Choosing the Avocado: When selecting an avocado, opt for fruits that are slightly soft to the touch but not too soft. If your avocado is still hard, leave it at room temperature in the fruit bowl until it ripens. Once ripe, you can keep it in the fridge to slow down the ripening process. This is a great technique to prevent browning and loss of flavor.

3. Cutting the Ingredients: In a large plate, start laying down the Iceberg lettuce leaves. Cut the avocado in half, remove the pit, and use a spoon to scoop out the flesh. Cut it into slices or cubes, depending on your preference. Mozzarella should be cut into slices or cubes, just like the red onion. The onion can add a crunchy note and a slightly spicy taste to the salad, but you can omit it if you prefer a milder salad.

4. Assembling the Salad: Place the slices of mozzarella and avocado on top of the Iceberg lettuce. Add the finely chopped red onion. Now that you have all the ingredients on the plate, it's time to season them. Drizzle the salad with extra virgin olive oil and balsamic or apple cider vinegar. Sprinkle salt and freshly ground pepper to taste.

5. Mix and Serve: Use a spoon or spatula to gently mix the ingredients, so the dressing is evenly distributed. The salad is ready! You can serve it immediately or let it chill in the fridge for 10-15 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.

Practical Tips:
- Vegan Option: If you want a vegan option, you can replace mozzarella with firm tofu, cut into cubes and marinated in soy sauce for a savory taste.
- Nutritious Additions: You can add pumpkin seeds or toasted almonds for extra crunch and nutrients.
- A Splash of Lemon: If you like a more acidic taste, you can drizzle the salad with fresh lemon juice, which will enhance the flavors.

Calories and Nutritional Benefits:
A serving of this salad contains approximately 250 calories, being rich in healthy fats from avocado and protein from mozzarella. Additionally, Iceberg lettuce is a good source of fiber and vitamins, contributing to healthy digestion and maintaining optimal weight.

Frequently Asked Questions:
- Can I replace mozzarella with another type of cheese? Yes, you can experiment with feta cheese or goat cheese for a different flavor.
- What other ingredients can I add? Cherry tomatoes, olives, or even fruits like mango or peaches for a sweet touch.
- How can I keep the salad fresh? If you don't eat it immediately, keep the ingredients separate and assemble the salad just before serving.

Combining this salad with a glass of dry white wine or a refreshing iced tea can transform your dinner into an unforgettable culinary experience. Enjoy and let's savor every bite!