Spicy Chili-Infused Field Greens Salad
Elevate your salad game with this vibrant Spicy Chili-Infused Field Greens Salad! Featuring a delightful blend of fresh green onions, aromatic garlic, and a zesty chili dressing, this salad bursts with flavors that awaken your palate. Perfect for a light lunch or as a side dish, this colorful medley of tender baby greens paired with a spicy, tangy dressing is not only quick to make but is also a health-conscious choice. In just under 15 minutes, you can whip up a refreshing, nutritious dish that will impress your family and friends!
6
Servings
N/A
Calories
9
Ingredients
Ingredients
Green onions
4 (chopped)
Vegetable oil
1/4 cup
Rice vinegar
2 tablespoons
Soy sauce
1 teaspoon
Sesame oil
1 teaspoon
Garlic
1 clove (peeled)
Ginger
1/4 teaspoon (minced)
Crushed red pepper flakes
1/4 teaspoon
Baby greens
12 cups
Instructions
1
Begin by rinsing the baby greens under cold water, then gently pat them dry using a clean kitchen towel or salad spinner.
2
In a blender, combine the chopped green onions, vegetable oil, rice vinegar, soy sauce, sesame oil, peeled garlic clove, minced ginger, and crushed red pepper flakes. Blend on high for about 20 seconds, or until the mixture is smooth and well combined.
3
Taste the dressing, then add salt and pepper as needed to enhance the flavor.
4
In a large mixing bowl, place the dry baby greens and pour the spicy dressing over them. Toss gently but thoroughly to ensure all the greens are evenly coated with the dressing.
5
Serve immediately as a light side dish or a refreshing starter, and enjoy the vibrant flavors!
Nutrition Information
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Spicy Chili-Infused Field Greens Salad?
It is a quick and vibrant salad featuring tender baby greens tossed in a zesty, homemade chili-infused dressing.
How long does it take to prepare this salad?
The entire preparation takes less than 15 minutes, making it an excellent quick recipe for busy schedules.
Is this recipe suitable for vegans?
Yes, all the ingredients used in this recipe are plant-based, making it 100% vegan.
Is the Spicy Chili-Infused Field Greens Salad gluten-free?
Yes, the recipe is naturally gluten-free; just ensure your soy sauce is a gluten-free variety or use tamari.
How many servings does this recipe make?
This recipe is designed to yield 6 servings.
What ingredients are needed for the spicy chili dressing?
The dressing contains green onions, vegetable oil, rice vinegar, soy sauce, sesame oil, garlic, ginger, and red pepper flakes.
What kind of greens should I use for this salad?
The recipe calls for 12 cups of baby greens, which provide a tender and mild base for the spicy dressing.
How should I prepare the baby greens before dressing them?
Rinse the greens under cold water and gently pat them dry with a towel or use a salad spinner to ensure the dressing sticks.
Do I need a blender for this recipe?
Yes, a blender is required to emulsify the dressing ingredients into a smooth and flavorful mixture.
Can I adjust the heat level of this salad?
Absolutely. You can increase or decrease the amount of crushed red pepper flakes to match your spice preference.
What is the best way to serve this dish?
It is best served immediately after tossing to ensure the greens remain crisp and fresh.
Can I substitute the vegetable oil with olive oil?
Yes, you can use olive oil, though it will add a slightly more robust flavor compared to neutral vegetable oil.
Should the ginger be fresh or ground?
The recipe calls for minced ginger, which is best when fresh to provide the most aromatic and zesty flavor.
Does the garlic need to be chopped before blending?
No, you only need to peel the garlic clove; the blender will handle the chopping and incorporation.
Can the dressing be made in advance?
Yes, you can blend the dressing ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator until you are ready to serve.
What can I use if I do not have rice vinegar?
You can substitute rice vinegar with apple cider vinegar or white wine vinegar for a similar acidic profile.
How do I ensure the greens are evenly coated?
Place the greens in a large mixing bowl, pour the dressing over them, and toss gently but thoroughly.
Are there any recommended toppings to add?
You might enjoy adding toasted sesame seeds, sliced almonds, or mandarin oranges for extra crunch and sweetness.
Is sesame oil necessary for this recipe?
Sesame oil provides a signature nutty aroma that complements the chili, so it is highly recommended for the best flavor.
Can I use this recipe for meal prep?
Yes, but keep the dressing and the greens separate until the moment you are ready to eat to avoid wilting.
How do I season the salad to my liking?
After blending the dressing, taste it and add salt and pepper as needed before tossing it with the greens.
What type of neutral oil is best?
Canola, grapeseed, or sunflower oil are all great neutral options for the salad dressing base.
How long should I blend the dressing?
Blend on high for approximately 20 seconds or until the green onions and garlic are fully processed and smooth.
Can I add protein to make this a main course?
Yes, adding grilled chicken, shrimp, or crispy tofu turns this light salad into a more substantial meal.
Is this salad considered a healthy choice?
Yes, it is a nutrient-dense dish featuring fresh greens, ginger, garlic, and heart-healthy oils.
Should I use a specific size of mixing bowl?
Use a large mixing bowl to accommodate the 12 cups of greens and allow for easy tossing.
How many green onions are required?
The recipe uses 4 chopped green onions to build the flavor base of the dressing.
Can I use frozen minced ginger?
Yes, frozen minced ginger works well as a convenient alternative to fresh ginger root.
Why is it called a field greens salad?
It uses baby greens, which are often a mix of various young salad leaves typically found in a field or spring mix.
What provides the spiciness in this dish?
The heat comes from a combination of fresh ginger, raw garlic, and crushed red pepper flakes.