Spinach and valerian salad with mozzarella and orange

Spinach and Valerian Salad with Mozzarella and Orange

When we think of a fresh salad, full of vitamins and flavors that delight our senses, the spinach and valerian salad with mozzarella and orange is the perfect choice. This recipe is not only an explosion of flavors but also offers remarkable nutritional benefits, thanks to its healthy ingredients. I will share with you every step to create this delicacy, along with some tips and useful information about the ingredients used.

Preparation time: 15 minutes
Total time: 15 minutes
Number of servings: 2

Ingredients:
- 50 g baby spinach
- 50 g valerian salad
- 150 g mini mozzarella
- 2 oranges (one for slices/cubes and another for juice)
- 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
- Pink salt to taste

A brief history
Valerian is known by various names, including lamb's lettuce or corn salad, and has been appreciated for its nutritional benefits for hundreds of years. Its origins are shrouded in mystery, but it is known to have been cultivated and consumed over generations, being ideal in salads due to its delicate and crunchy taste. Baby spinach, on the other hand, has gained popularity lately due to its tender texture and health benefits.

Nutritional benefits
This salad is not only tasty but also extremely healthy. Spinach is an excellent source of iron, vitamin K, and antioxidants, while valerian provides fiber and essential vitamins. Mozzarella, being rich in protein, makes this dish filling, and the orange adds not only a sweet-sour taste but also a boost of vitamin C.

Step-by-step preparation

1. Washing the ingredients: Start by washing the baby spinach and valerian salad thoroughly under cold running water. This step is essential to remove impurities and pesticides. After washing, let them drain in a colander for a few minutes.

2. Preparing the oranges: Take one of the oranges and peel it. You can cut it into slices or cubes, depending on your preference. This will add a note of freshness to your salad. The second orange will be squeezed to obtain juice, which you will use in the dressing.

3. Assembling the salad: In a large bowl, add the baby spinach and valerian salad. These two types of greens complement each other perfectly, providing a crunchy texture and pleasant aroma. Add mini mozzarella, which breaks easily into delicious little balls, and the orange cubes.

4. Seasoning: Sprinkle a pinch of pink salt over the salad. This type of salt not only provides a more refined taste but is also healthier due to the minerals it contains. Gently mix with your hands to combine the ingredients, being careful not to crush the mozzarella.

5. Preparing the dressing: In a small bowl, combine the fresh orange juice with the two tablespoons of extra virgin olive oil. This will add a rich flavor and bind all the tastes together. You can also add a pinch of black pepper for an extra kick.

6. Finishing the salad: Pour the dressing over the salad and gently mix to coat all the ingredients. The salad is now ready to be served!

Serving suggestions
This salad can be enjoyed on its own, but I recommend pairing it with a slice of freshly baked rye bread. Its aroma will perfectly complement the salad's taste. If you want to indulge, you can add some shrimp in orange sauce, which pairs wonderfully with the fresh ingredients.

Possible variations
If you want to experiment, you can replace mozzarella with feta or goat cheese for a more intense flavor. You can also add nuts or seeds for extra crunch. Instead of orange, you can use grapefruit or mango, which will add an exotic touch to your salad.

Frequently asked questions
- Can I use regular spinach instead of baby spinach?
Yes, but make sure the leaves are tender and not too mature to avoid a fibrous texture.

- What other dressings can I use?
A simple vinaigrette made from balsamic vinegar and olive oil would work great, as well as a yogurt-based dressing that would add a creamy note.

- Is this salad suitable for vegans?
Yes, you can omit mozzarella or replace it with a plant-based alternative.

Conclusion
The spinach and valerian salad with mozzarella and orange is not only a simple recipe but also a true explosion of flavors and health benefits. It is ideal for hot summer days or as a light and healthy accompaniment to any meal. I invite you to try it and discover how much it can delight your taste buds! Enjoy!