Greek salad

Fresh Salad with Avocado and Goat Cheese

Total Time: 15 minutes
Number of Servings: 2

Welcome to the world of quick and healthy delicacies! Today, I invite you to prepare a fresh, vibrant salad that combines unmistakable textures and flavors: salad with avocado and goat cheese. This recipe is not only easy to make, but it is also packed with nutrients, perfect for a quick lunch or a light dinner. Let's get started!

A Brief Story About Salad

Salads have been consumed for thousands of years, being an essential part of the Mediterranean diet. They are often associated with a healthy and balanced lifestyle, full of fresh fruits and vegetables. The avocado and goat cheese salad is a modern reinterpretation of classic recipes, bringing together simple yet extremely flavorful ingredients.

Ingredients

- 100 g mixed green salad leaves (baby spinach and arugula)
- 200 g cherry tomatoes
- 100 g pitted black olives
- 1 ripe avocado
- 100 g goat cheese
- 1 lime (juice and zest)
- 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
- Fresh oregano leaves for garnish

Ingredient Details

- Salad leaves: Opt for a mix of green salad. Arugula adds a slight peppery taste, while baby spinach is rich in nutrients and an excellent source of vitamins.
- Cherry tomatoes: These are sweet and juicy, adding a touch of freshness to the salad. Choose well-ripened tomatoes for maximum flavor.
- Black olives: They bring a salty flavor that contrasts perfectly with the sweetness of the tomatoes and the creaminess of the avocado.
- Avocado: A rich source of healthy fats and vitamins. Ensure it is well-ripened so that it is creamy and easy to cut.
- Goat cheese: Adds a distinctive taste and creamy texture. If you prefer, you can experiment with feta cheese.
- Lime: Provides a fresh and tangy taste, perfect for balancing the flavors in the salad.
- Olive oil: Choose a high-quality extra virgin olive oil to enhance the flavors.
- Oregano: This aromatic herb will elevate the salad to a new level, adding a touch of freshness.

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Preparing the ingredients: Start by thoroughly washing all the ingredients. The salad leaves, cherry tomatoes, and olives should be clean and fresh. Cut the cherry tomatoes in half and the olives into slices if you prefer.

2. Cutting the avocado: Choose a ripe avocado that feels slightly soft to the touch. Cut it in half, remove the pit, and use a spoon to scoop out the flesh. Cut the flesh into cubes and place them immediately in a bowl. Drizzle the cubes with lime juice to prevent oxidation and keep them vibrant.

3. Mixing the salad: In a large bowl, add the salad leaves, cut cherry tomatoes, olives, and avocado cubes. Be gentle when mixing the ingredients to avoid mashing the avocado.

4. Preparing the dressing: In a small container, combine the olive oil with the remaining lime juice (about 1-2 tablespoons, depending on your preference) and a pinch of salt and pepper to taste. Shake well until the dressing emulsifies.

5. Finishing the salad: Pour the dressing over the salad and gently toss to combine the flavors. Then, plate the salad. Crumble the goat cheese on top and garnish with fresh oregano leaves.

6. Serving: Set the plates on the table and enjoy this fresh and colorful salad! You can add croutons or toasted pumpkin seeds for an extra crunch.

Useful Tips

- If you have time, let the salad sit for 10-15 minutes before serving. This will allow the flavors to meld and become more intense.
- Experiment with different types of cheese, such as feta or mozzarella, to change the flavor profile of the salad.
- You can also add other ingredients, such as sliced avocado, cucumbers, or nuts, to customize the salad to your taste.

Ideal Pairings

This salad is extremely versatile and pairs perfectly with a variety of dishes. It can be served alongside grilled chicken breast for a complete meal or as a side dish for baked fish. Additionally, a glass of dry white wine or fresh lemonade would be excellent combinations to complement the salad's flavors.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I replace goat cheese?
Yes, you can use any other type of cheese you like. Feta or mozzarella are excellent options.

2. How can I keep the salad fresh for the next day?
I recommend keeping the dressing separate and adding ingredients like avocado and cherry tomatoes just before serving to prevent oxidation.

3. Is this salad vegan?
No, as it contains goat cheese, but you can omit this ingredient and use an olive oil and vinegar dressing to make it a vegan salad.

Calories and Nutritional Benefits

This salad is an excellent option for those looking to maintain a healthy diet. A serving contains approximately 400 calories, being rich in healthy fats from avocado and goat cheese, protein, and many vitamins. It is perfect for providing energy and maintaining an active lifestyle.

Final Note

This avocado and goat cheese salad is not only a delicious choice but also an excellent way to enjoy fresh and healthy ingredients. Whether you prepare it for yourself or serve it to guests, you will bring to the table a dish that will impress. So put on your apron, gather your ingredients, and enjoy every moment spent in the kitchen!