Salad (diet, cheap)

Cheap Diet Salad: A Burst of Vitamins on Your Plate

In a world full of culinary options, sometimes we want to get back to the essentials. This cheap diet salad not only combines simple ingredients but also offers a burst of vitamins and nutrients. It is perfect for days when you need something fresh and light, as well as a healthy option to keep you in shape. I invite you to discover this simple yet delicious recipe, which can be a perfect side dish for fries or a standalone dish, ideal for fasting.

Preparation Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 15 minutes
Number of Servings: 4

Ingredients:
- 1 large lettuce (preferably green or romaine)
- 1 bunch of green onions
- 1 bunch of radishes
- Salt (to taste)
- Olive oil (or other vegetable oil)
- Vinegar (or lemon juice, to taste)

History of Salad
Salad has been a staple food since ancient times, appreciated not only for its taste but also for its health benefits. Green leaves, crunchy vegetables, and simple dressings have made salad a symbol of healthy eating. This cheap diet salad recipe combines tradition with fresh ingredients, making it an excellent choice for those who want to maintain their figure without sacrificing taste.

Preparation Steps:
1. Wash the Lettuce Leaves: Start by washing the lettuce leaf by leaf under cold running water. Make sure to remove any impurities. After washing, shake the leaves well to remove excess water.

2. Prepare the Onion: Clean the green onions and chop them finely, including the green tops. This will add extra flavor to your salad.

3. Clean and Slice the Radishes: Wash the radishes and leave some of the red skin for a pleasant color contrast. Slice them into suitable pieces for a crunchy texture.

4. Assemble the Salad: In a large bowl, take the lettuce leaves and tear them into smaller pieces by hand, avoiding cutting with a knife, which can oxidize the leaves. Add the onion and radishes, then gently mix everything together.

5. Season: Sprinkle salt to taste. Add the oil and vinegar or lemon juice, to taste. Mix again to ensure all ingredients are well combined.

6. Enjoy: The salad is ready! You can enjoy it as is or alongside fries for a more substantial meal, perfect for fasting days.

Practical Tips:
- Choose Fresh Ingredients: Buy fresh vegetables from the market or your garden for an authentic taste.
- Salad Varieties: You can experiment with different types of lettuce, such as iceberg or frisée, each having a distinct texture and flavor.
- Add Proteins: If you are not fasting, you can add cubes of feta cheese or some grilled chicken slices to turn the salad into a main dish.
- Dressing Variations: Instead of vinegar, you can use yogurt-based dressings for a creamy touch.

Nutritional Values:
This salad is an excellent choice for those looking to maintain their weight. One serving has about 100 calories, being rich in vitamins A and C, fiber, and antioxidants. The fresh ingredients are full of nutrients and contribute to a healthy lifestyle.

Frequently Asked Questions:
1. Can I add other vegetables? Yes, you can add cucumbers, carrots, or even avocado for varied texture and flavor.
2. Is the diet salad suitable for children? Yes, due to the simple ingredients and fresh taste, children will enjoy this salad. You might try adding a sweeter dressing to make it more appealing.
3. How can I keep the salad fresh? If you do not consume it immediately, keep the ingredients separate until serving to prevent the leaves from wilting.

Serving and Combinations:
This cheap diet salad pairs perfectly with fries but can also be enjoyed alongside a portion of grilled fish or chicken. Your guests will be impressed by the combination of flavors and textures. You can also serve it with a glass of freshly squeezed lemonade or iced tea to complete the meal.

I hope this cheap diet salad recipe inspires you to bring a touch of freshness to your daily menu. Share this recipe with friends and enjoy a healthy and delicious lunch!