My crunchy salad

Crispy Vegetable Salad with Seeds and Aromatic Herbs

Preparation time: 15 minutes
Total time: 15 minutes
Servings: 4

Welcome to the fresh world of salads! Today, I will present to you a recipe for a crispy salad, full of color, flavor, and nutrients, perfect for those evenings when you crave something healthy and refreshing. This salad is a true feast for the senses and is ideal for those who prefer to eat something light but that provides energy and vitality, even in the late hours.

A little story about salads

Salads have a long history, being consumed since ancient times. They have evolved over the centuries, from simple combinations of raw vegetables to sophisticated culinary masterpieces. Nowadays, salads are appreciated not only for their taste but also for the nutritional benefits they offer. Whether you choose a salad as an appetizer, main dish, or just a snack, they are always a wise choice.

Necessary ingredients:

- 2 small carrots
- 3-4 radishes
- 1/2 cucumber
- 1 bell pepper (preferably red or yellow for an extra splash of color)
- 1/2 bunch of fresh dill
- 1/2 bunch of fresh parsley
- A healthy handful of fresh mint
- A handful of roasted and salted sunflower seeds
- Juice of one lemon (or to taste)
- Salt and pepper to taste (optional)

Preparation technique:

1. Preparing the vegetables: Start by washing all the vegetables well under a stream of cold water to remove impurities. Then, peel the carrots and cut them into small cubes. This will allow the vegetables to mix evenly, and each bite will bring an explosion of textures and flavors.

2. Cutting the radishes and cucumber: Cut the radishes into small cubes, being careful to remove the ends. The cucumber can be cut into either cubes or thin slices, depending on your preference. Choose the option you like best!

3. The bell pepper: Wash the bell pepper, remove the stem and seeds, then cut it into small cubes. If you want to add a bit of spice, opt for a hot pepper.

4. The aromatic herbs: Chop the dill, parsley, and mint. These herbs will not only add flavor and freshness to your salad but will also contribute to a colorful and appetizing appearance.

5. Mixing the ingredients: In a large bowl, combine all the chopped vegetables, aromatic herbs, and sunflower seeds. Gently mix with a spatula or your hands to ensure that all the ingredients are evenly distributed.

6. Adding the dressing: Squeeze the lemon juice over the vegetable mixture. This magic ingredient will bring a balanced taste and enhance the flavors of each vegetable. Season with salt and pepper to taste, if desired.

7. Serving: The salad can be served immediately, but for an even more intense flavor, let it sit in the refrigerator for 10-15 minutes. This will allow the flavors to blend perfectly.

Practical tips:

- If you want to customize your salad, you can add cubes of feta cheese or avocado for extra creaminess.
- Instead of sunflower seeds, you can use roasted nuts or almonds for a different texture.
- You can replace the lemon juice with balsamic vinegar or apple cider vinegar for a distinct flavor.

Nutritional information:

This salad is low in calories, having about 120-150 calories per serving, depending on the amount of seeds used. It is rich in vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants, thanks to the fresh vegetables. Carrots are an excellent source of beta-carotene, and radishes are known for their digestive benefits. Mint and aromatic herbs bring not only freshness but also an extra boost of nutrients.

Frequently asked questions:

- Can I prepare the salad in advance?
Yes, but it is recommended to add the dressing and sunflower seeds just before serving to maintain the crunchiness.

- What other vegetables can I add?
You can try cherry tomatoes, celery, or zucchini to add variety.

- How can I make the salad more filling?
By adding a source of protein, such as grilled chicken, chickpeas, or tofu, the salad will become a satisfying main dish.

Serving suggestion:

This crispy salad pairs perfectly with a glass of fresh lemonade or a cold mint tea. You can serve it as a side dish alongside grilled fish or steak, bringing an excellent contrast of textures and flavors.

I hope you enjoy this simple and delicious crispy salad recipe! Experiment and customize it to your tastes, and each bite will be a true treat for your taste buds!