Spring Salad with Croutons

Spring Salad with Crunchy Croutons

Spring is a vibrant season, full of colors and fresh aromas, encouraging us to enjoy seasonal vegetables. This spring salad with croutons is not only a healthy and filling choice for lunch but also a feast for the senses. I invite you to discover this simple yet flavorful recipe that can quickly become your favorite.

Preparation time: 15 minutes
Baking time: 10 minutes
Total time: 25 minutes
Servings: 2

Ingredients:
- 2 medium ripe tomatoes
- 1 cucumber
- 50 g feta cheese
- 2 green onions
- 3 slices of turkey ham (or alternatively, grilled chicken breast)
- Juice of one lemon
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1-2 slices of toast (for croutons)

Step-by-step preparation:

1. Preparing the croutons
Start by cutting the slices of bread into small cubes, about 1-2 cm. Place them on a baking tray and drizzle with a little olive oil. Sprinkle a pinch of coarse salt to enhance the flavor. You can use whole-grain bread for added nutrients. Put the tray in a preheated oven at 180°C and let them bake for 8-10 minutes, or until golden and crunchy. Make sure to turn them halfway through for even baking.

2. Preparing the vegetables
Meanwhile, cut the tomatoes and cucumber into slices or cubes, depending on your preference. Choose ripe tomatoes, as they are juicier and full of flavor. The cucumber slices can be a bit thicker for a crunchier texture.

3. Adding protein ingredients
Chop the green onions finely, and the turkey ham can be diced into small cubes or strips. If you choose to use grilled chicken breast, ensure it is well-cooked and cut into small pieces to easily integrate into the salad.

4. Mixing the salad
In a large bowl, combine the tomatoes, cucumber, green onions, turkey ham (or chicken breast), and crumbled feta cheese. This is the perfect moment to add some Kalamata or black olives, which will provide a Mediterranean taste and an extra touch of flavor.

5. Seasoning
Add the lemon juice, olive oil, salt, and pepper to taste. Mix everything well, ensuring each ingredient is evenly coated with the dressing. The lemon adds a freshness and helps balance the flavors.

6. Serving
Once the croutons are ready, add them to the salad and gently mix to avoid crushing them. You can serve the salad in individual bowls or on a large platter, and the croutons can be added just before serving to maintain their crunchy texture.

Serving suggestions:
For a complete lunch, you can accompany this salad with a glass of freshly squeezed lemonade or a fruit smoothie. It is also an excellent choice for a light dinner, alongside a slice of toasted bread or a yogurt-based dip.

Tips and variations:
If you want to personalize this salad, you can add other seasonal vegetables, such as bell peppers or radishes, which add a crunchy note. Additionally, replacing feta cheese with goat cheese will bring an intense flavor and distinct taste. If you prefer spicier salads, you can add a few slices of hot pepper.

Nutritional information:
This salad is rich in vitamins and minerals, low in calories, making it ideal for a balanced diet. Tomatoes are an excellent source of vitamin C, while cucumbers provide hydration and fiber. Feta cheese offers protein and calcium, and olive oil is known for its cardiovascular benefits.

Frequently asked questions:
1. Can I use frozen vegetables instead of fresh ones?
While possible, the salad will lose the crunchy texture specific to fresh vegetables. Always use seasonal vegetables for the best results.

2. How can I make the croutons more flavorful?
You can add spices like garlic powder, oregano, or Herbes de Provence along with the olive oil before baking them.

3. What are the best cheese options for this salad?
Besides feta, you can try mozzarella, goat cheese, or even grated parmesan for an intense flavor.

Now that you have all the necessary information, all that’s left is to put on your apron and enjoy making this spring salad with crunchy croutons. Bon appétit!