Simple wild garlic salad

Fresh Wild Garlic Salad – Flavor and Freshness on Your Plate

When it comes to spring, there's nothing more delightful than the fresh aroma of wild garlic. This wild plant, also known as ramsons, is a true delicacy for food lovers and a perfect ingredient for salads. In this simple yet incredibly tasty recipe, I will share with you how to prepare a wild garlic salad that will turn any meal into a culinary feast.

Total preparation time: 15 minutes
Number of servings: 2

Basic ingredients:

- 2 generous handfuls of wild garlic (about 150g)
- a few sprigs of fresh dill
- salt, to taste
- sunflower oil (or olive oil for a more intense flavor)
- wine vinegar (preferably white or apple)
- a few olives for added flavor

A brief story about wild garlic:
Wild garlic is a plant that has been used for centuries in various cultures, both as a culinary ingredient and as a medicinal solution. It is rich in vitamins A, C, and K, as well as essential minerals, having antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. Harvested in spring, wild garlic brings a touch of freshness and health to our meals. So, let’s get to work!

Step by step: How to prepare a delicious wild garlic salad

1. Harvesting wild garlic:
Start by harvesting wild garlic from the forest or, if you don’t have access to it, you can also find it in supermarkets or markets. Make sure to choose fresh plants with vibrant green leaves and no spots.

2. Washing and preparing:
After harvesting the wild garlic, wash it well under running water to remove any impurities or dirt. Then, gently dry it with a kitchen towel or let it drain for a few minutes.

3. Cutting the wild garlic:
Cut the wild garlic leaves into strips about 2-3 cm long. They don’t need to be very finely chopped, as we want to preserve its texture and aroma.

4. Adding the ingredients:
In a large bowl, add the chopped wild garlic, a few sprigs of fresh dill (finely chopped), salt, and olives. The olives add a pleasant contrast and a salty note, perfect for balancing the taste.

5. Preparing the dressing:
In a small bowl, combine the sunflower oil with the wine vinegar. The ideal ratio is 3 parts oil to 1 part vinegar, but adjust to taste. Add salt and pepper as desired.

6. Mixing the salad:
Pour the dressing over the wild garlic salad and gently mix to ensure an even coating. Let the salad sit for a few minutes to allow the flavors to combine.

7. Serving:
The wild garlic salad is perfect as a side dish for a juicy pork roast and baked potatoes. Arrange the salad on a plate and add the meat and potatoes alongside. This contrast of textures and flavors will delight any palate.

Practical tips:
- If you want to add a note of freshness, try adding some diced cucumber or cherry tomatoes.
- White wine vinegar can be replaced with balsamic vinegar for a more intense flavor and a prettier color.
- If you’re looking for an extra protein boost, add cubes of feta cheese or canned tuna.

Frequently asked questions:
- Can I use dried wild garlic instead of fresh?
It is not recommended, as fresh wild garlic has a much more intense taste and aroma. If you can’t find fresh wild garlic, try using green garlic or regular garlic.

- What are the alternatives to olives?
If you’re not a fan of olives, you can replace them with nuts or roasted seeds, which will add a crunchy texture.

- How many calories are in a serving of wild garlic salad?
A serving of wild garlic salad has about 150 calories, depending on the amount of oil used. It is an excellent choice for a light and healthy meal.

Possible variations:
- Try adding avocado for extra creaminess.
- You can turn this salad into a main dish by adding quinoa or cooked rice.
- Experiment with different herbs, such as basil or parsley, to give it a personalized touch.

This wild garlic salad is more than just a simple recipe; it’s an invitation to a meal full of joy, freshness, and health. Whether you prepare it for a special occasion or to indulge during a simple dinner at home, its aroma will bring a piece of nature directly to your plate. I encourage you to experiment and let your imagination run wild in the kitchen. Enjoy your meal!