Refreshing salad with cantaloupe

Refreshing Melon Salad - An Explosion of Freshness

Who doesn't love a fresh and revitalizing salad, especially on hot summer days? The refreshing melon salad is not only a delicious dish but also a healthy option, full of essential vitamins and nutrients. It's perfect as a nourishing breakfast or as a side dish to a juicy steak. This simple and quick recipe is sure to become your favorite!

Preparation time: 15 minutes
Total time: 15 minutes
Number of servings: 4

Nutritional Information
This salad is not only delicious but also nutritious. Melon is an excellent source of vitamins A and C, which contribute to skin health and the immune system. It also contains antioxidants that help combat free radicals. Mozzarella provides a boost of protein and calcium, while fresh vegetables are rich in fiber, essential for digestion.

Ingredients
- 4-5 leaves of salad (green lettuce, romaine, or mixed)
- 1 medium tomato
- 1 green onion
- 125g mozzarella (about 1/2 ball)
- 2 slices of melon (about 200g)
- 2-3 tablespoons of extra virgin olive oil
- 1-2 tablespoons of balsamic vinegar or lemon juice
- Salt and pepper to taste

Preparing the Ingredients
1. Washing the salad: Start by washing the salad leaves under cold running water. Make sure to rinse them well to remove any impurities. You can use a salad spinner to dry them quickly.

2. Cutting the vegetables:
- Tear the salad leaves into larger pieces, or you can cut them into thin strips with a knife, depending on your preference.
- Slice the tomato thinly or into cubes, depending on the desired style.
- Cut the green onion into rings or thin slices. This adds a spicy and fresh flavor to the salad.
- Cut the melon into suitable cubes. Make sure to choose a ripe melon that is sweet and aromatic.
- Cut the mozzarella into cubes similar in size to the melon for a uniform texture.

Preparing the Salad
1. Mixing the ingredients: In a large bowl, add all the cut ingredients: salad, tomato, green onion, mozzarella, and melon. Gently mix with a spatula or your hands to avoid crushing the mozzarella or melon.

2. Seasoning: Sprinkle salt and pepper to taste. Add the olive oil and vinegar or lemon juice. These will not only enhance the flavor of the salad but also help preserve the freshness of the ingredients.

3. Final mix: Mix everything again, being careful not to break the delicate ingredients. The salad is now ready to serve!

Serving Suggestions
This refreshing melon salad is perfect on its own, but you can turn it into a main dish by adding some protein, such as grilled chicken or tuna. It also makes an excellent side dish for a juicy pork or beef steak.

Delicious Variations
- Add nuts or seeds: A handful of pecans or roasted pumpkin seeds can add a crunchy texture and rich flavor.
- Enrich with herbs: Add fresh basil or mint for an extra burst of flavor.
- Incorporate other vegetables: Cucumbers or bell peppers can add extra freshness and color.

Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I use other types of cheese?
Yes, you can experiment with feta cheese or goat cheese for a different flavor.

2. Is this salad suitable for diets?
The salad is healthy and low in calories, making it ideal for any balanced diet.

3. How long does it last in the fridge?
It is recommended to consume the salad fresh, but it can be stored in the fridge for up to 24 hours.

Personal Note
This salad reminds me of warm days spent in the garden, where each ingredient is harvested with love. It is a versatile recipe that allows you to play with flavors. I encourage you to try it and share it with your loved ones! Enjoy!