Raw vegetable salad with yogurt dressing

Raw Vegetable Salad with Yogurt Dressing – An Explosion of Freshness!

Who doesn't love summer? The shining sun, long and warm days, and of course, a light and healthy meal, perfect for enjoying outdoors. Today, I will share with you a delicious recipe for raw vegetable salad with yogurt dressing, which is not only quick and simple but also provides important nutritional benefits. This is a versatile salad, ideal to be served as a side dish or as a main course on a hot summer day.

Preparation time: 20 minutes
Total time: 20 minutes
Servings: 2

Ingredients

For the salad:
- 200 g red cabbage (about 1/4 of a medium cabbage)
- 100 g beetroot (about 1 small beet)
- 100 g celery (about 1/4 of a celery root)
- 100 g carrot (about 1 large carrot)
- 1 red bell pepper (or capia)
- 100 g Kos lettuce (about 1/2 of a lettuce)

For the dressing:
- 3 tablespoons natural yogurt (preferably Greek for a creamier texture)
- 3 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
- 3 tablespoons grated horseradish (can be adjusted to taste)
- Salt to taste
- Quail eggs (2-4 eggs, depending on preference) or boiled chicken eggs

Preparation

1. Preparing the vegetables: Start by washing all the vegetables well. Finely slice the red cabbage using a sharp knife. Make sure the slices are very thin to achieve a crunchy and easy-to-chew texture.

2. Grating: Use a fine grater to grate the celery and carrot. This technique will release the natural juices of the vegetables, adding extra flavor to your salad.

3. Beetroot: The beetroot can also be grated, but if you prefer, you can cut it into small cubes. This will add a vibrant color and a sweet taste.

4. Bell pepper: Slice the red bell pepper into thin strips. This will provide a contrast in texture and a slightly sweet taste.

5. Lettuce: Tear the lettuce leaves into larger pieces to achieve a fresh and crunchy note.

6. Boiled eggs: Boil the quail eggs for 4-5 minutes, then let them cool. If using chicken eggs, boil them for 8-10 minutes for a hard yolk. Once cooled, peel them carefully.

7. Yogurt dressing: In a small bowl, mix the yogurt, olive oil, and grated horseradish. Add salt to taste. If you want a spicier dressing, you can add more horseradish.

8. Assembling the salad: In a large bowl, combine all the prepared vegetables, then pour the yogurt dressing over them. Gently mix so that each ingredient is well coated with the dressing.

9. Serving: Cut the boiled eggs in half or quarters and place them on top of the salad. Garnish with a celery leaf for an elegant and fresh look.

Good to know

This raw vegetable salad is not only a healthy option, but it is also a true visual feast. The red cabbage provides antioxidants, beetroot is rich in vitamins A and C, and horseradish brings a boost of vitamins and minerals. Yogurt, on the other hand, is an excellent source of probiotics, beneficial for digestive health.

Possible variations

If you want to customize the recipe, you can also add other ingredients such as:
- Nuts or seeds: for an extra crunch and omega-3.
- Fruits: diced apples or oranges add a sweet and tangy note.
- Fresh herbs: parsley or dill will enhance the salad's flavor.

Ideal combinations

This dish pairs perfectly with various types of protein. You can serve it alongside:
- Grilled fish
- Roasted or grilled chicken
- Marinated tofu for a vegetarian option

Frequently asked questions

1. Can I use other vegetables?
Of course! You can substitute vegetables based on your preferences or the season.

2. How can I keep the salad from getting soggy?
It is recommended to assemble the salad just before serving. If you want to prepare it in advance, keep the vegetables and dressing separate and mix them before serving.

3. What drinks do you recommend to accompany this salad?
A fresh citrus juice or a cold mint tea would be excellent options!

This raw vegetable salad with yogurt dressing is more than just a simple recipe; it is a celebration of summer and healthy foods. With each bite, you will feel the freshness of the ingredients, and the combination of flavors will turn the meal into a special moment. Don’t hesitate to try it and share it with your loved ones!