Vegetable salad

Vegetable salad with boiled egg and crunchy croutons

Welcome to a recipe that will transform your perception of salads! Even if you’re not a die-hard fan of vegetables, this vegetable salad with boiled egg and crunchy croutons will surprise you and make you want to include it in your menu from time to time. In a world full of elaborate dishes, sometimes a simple salad can bring an explosion of flavors and textures, plus a boost of vitamins. Let’s discover together how to prepare this delicious salad!

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

Ingredients:
- 1 lettuce (preferably a small green lettuce, like romaine or iceberg)
- 1 medium tomato
- 1 boiled egg
- 100 g feta cheese (or telemea, for a more intense flavor)
- 3-4 tablespoons of extra virgin olive oil
- 1-2 slices of bread (preferably whole grain)
- 1 garlic clove (optional)
- Salt and pepper to taste

Dressing ingredients:
- 1 tablespoon of natural yogurt
- 1 tablespoon of mayonnaise (or yogurt for a lighter version)
- 1 garlic clove (for a stronger flavor)
- A handful of freshly chopped parsley

Preparing the salad:

1. Wash the vegetables: Start by washing the lettuce and tomato thoroughly under cold running water. Make sure there are no traces of pesticides or dirt.

2. Prepare the lettuce: Cut the lettuce into long strips using a sharp knife. This will help maintain the crisp texture of the leaves.

3. Cut the tomato and cheese: Dice the tomato and cut the feta cheese into small pieces. Add them to the bowl with the lettuce.

4. Boiled egg: Boil the egg for 9-10 minutes to get a hard-boiled egg. Once cooled, peel it and slice it. Add the egg slices over the vegetables.

5. Crunchy croutons: Cut the bread into small cubes. In a pan, add a little olive oil and, if you like, a crushed garlic clove for flavor. Fry the bread cubes over medium heat until golden and crunchy. These will add a delicious texture to your salad.

6. Preparing the dressing: In a small bowl, mix the yogurt, mayonnaise, crushed garlic, and chopped parsley. Add salt and pepper to taste. This dressing will bring a creamy and savory note to the salad.

7. Assembling the salad: In a large bowl, combine all the ingredients – lettuce, tomato, feta, boiled egg, and crunchy croutons. Add the dressing and gently mix so that the flavors combine without crushing the ingredients.

8. Serving: You can divide the salad into two plates and, if desired, add a few more croutons on top for a more appealing look.

Suggestions and variations:

- I recommend trying different types of cheese, such as feta or mozzarella, to add a different flavor note.
- You can also add other vegetables, such as bell pepper or cucumber, for an extra splash of color and nutrients.
- If you want a spicy note, add a few slices of chili pepper or a teaspoon of mustard to the dressing.

Nutritional benefits:
This salad is rich in vitamins and minerals, thanks to the fresh vegetables. Eggs provide complete proteins, while cheese contributes calcium and healthy fats. Olive oil is a superfood, packed with antioxidants and essential fatty acids that help maintain heart health.

Frequently asked questions:
1. Can I prepare the salad in advance?
Yes, but it’s recommended to add the dressing and croutons just before serving to keep the crunchy texture.

2. How can I make this salad more filling?
Add a portion of quinoa or boiled chickpeas to turn the salad into a nutritious main dish.

3. Is this recipe vegan?
No, but you can easily adapt it by replacing the cheese with a plant-based product and omitting the egg.

In conclusion, this vegetable salad with boiled egg and crunchy croutons is not only delicious but also easy to prepare. It’s perfect for a light yet nutritious meal, ideal for hot summer days or as a side dish alongside a main course. Enjoy, and don’t forget to share your experiences and variations with us!