Vibrant Cuban Salad with Garlic Vinaigrette
This Vibrant Cuban Salad with Garlic Vinaigrette is a refreshing and colorful dish that embodies the essence of Latin and Caribbean flavors. Perfect as a light lunch on its own or as a vibrant side to accompany your dinner, this salad combines juicy roma tomatoes, crisp mixed greens, and zesty radishes, all brought to life by a homemade garlic vinaigrette. The salad is easily customizable; feel free to substitute with your favorite varieties of tomatoes, onions, or greens. The fresh dressing not only elevates the flavors but also adds a delightful homemade touch—though a store-bought vinaigrette can be used in a pinch. Enjoy this nutritious salad that brightens any meal with its burst of flavor and vibrant colors!
N/A
Servings
N/A
Calories
10
Ingredients
Ingredients
Roma tomatoes
2 (cut into wedges)
Large onion
1 (sliced into thin rings)
Mixed salad greens
5 cups (washed and torn into bite-sized pieces)
Radishes
4-6 (thinly sliced)
Garlic cloves
2-4 (minced)
Olive oil
1/2 cup (for dressing)
White vinegar
1/4 cup (for dressing)
Lime juice
1/4 cup (freshly squeezed for dressing)
Salt
to taste (for seasoning)
Pepper
to taste (for seasoning)
Instructions
1
Prepare the vegetables: Cut the roma tomatoes into wedges, slice the onion into thin rings, and thinly slice the radishes.
2
In a large salad bowl or platter, arrange the tomatoes, onion, mixed salad greens, and radishes artistically. You can also toss them together gently if you prefer a combined presentation.
3
For the dressing, combine minced garlic, olive oil, white vinegar, lime juice, salt, and pepper in a blender. Blend until well-emulsified and smooth.
4
Pour the dressing over the arranged salad just before serving or serve it on the side to let guests add their preferred amount.
5
Chill the salad and dressing for at least 30 minutes in the refrigerator to allow the flavors to meld.
Nutrition Information
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What is a Vibrant Cuban Salad?
It is a refreshing and colorful dish embodying Latin and Caribbean flavors, featuring roma tomatoes, mixed greens, and radishes with a garlic vinaigrette.
What ingredients are in the garlic vinaigrette?
The dressing consists of minced garlic, olive oil, white vinegar, lime juice, salt, and pepper.
Can I substitute the Roma tomatoes?
Yes, you can substitute Roma tomatoes with your favorite varieties of tomatoes.
What kind of onions are recommended?
The recipe calls for one large onion sliced into thin rings, but you can use your preferred variety.
Are the mixed salad greens specific?
No, you can use any variety of mixed salad greens, washed and torn into bite-sized pieces.
How should I prepare the radishes?
Radishes should be thinly sliced to add a zesty crunch to the salad.
Can I use a different type of vinegar?
While white vinegar is recommended for the dressing, you can experiment with others if needed.
Is fresh lime juice required?
Freshly squeezed lime juice is recommended for the best flavor in the homemade dressing.
Is this Cuban Salad recipe vegan?
Yes, the ingredients listed for both the salad and the dressing are vegan-friendly.
How much olive oil is needed for the dressing?
The recipe requires 1/2 cup of olive oil for the garlic vinaigrette.
Do I need a blender to make the dressing?
A blender is recommended to ensure the garlic vinaigrette is well-emulsified and smooth.
Can I use a store-bought vinaigrette instead?
Yes, a store-bought vinaigrette can be used in a pinch, though homemade is preferred for flavor.
How should the Roma tomatoes be cut?
The Roma tomatoes should be cut into wedges for this salad.
Should I toss the salad or arrange it?
You can either arrange the ingredients artistically on a platter or toss them together gently.
Why should I chill the salad for 30 minutes?
Chilling allows the flavors of the vegetables and the dressing to meld together properly.
Can I add extra vegetables to this recipe?
Yes, the salad is easily customizable and you can add other favorite vegetables.
Is this salad suitable for a light lunch?
Yes, it is perfect as a light lunch on its own or as a vibrant side dish.
What cuisines influence this recipe?
This recipe is influenced by Latin and Caribbean culinary flavors.
How many garlic cloves should I use?
The recipe suggests using between 2 to 4 minced garlic cloves depending on your preference.
Can I adjust the seasoning?
Yes, salt and pepper should be added to taste to suit your personal preference.
Is this a healthy recipe?
Yes, it is a nutritious salad made with fresh vegetables and a heart-healthy olive oil-based dressing.
Can I add protein like chicken or shrimp?
While the base recipe is vegetable-focused, you can easily add your choice of protein to make it heartier.
How do I prepare the onion?
The large onion should be sliced into thin rings before being added to the salad.
What makes the salad 'vibrant'?
The combination of red tomatoes, colorful greens, and bright radishes creates a visually vibrant dish.
Can I use apple cider vinegar instead of white vinegar?
Yes, apple cider vinegar can be used as a substitute, though it will slightly alter the flavor profile.
Is this salad recipe gluten-free?
Based on the ingredients listed, this recipe is naturally gluten-free.
Can I prepare the dressing in advance?
Yes, you can make the vinaigrette ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator.
What if I do not have radishes?
If you do not have radishes, you can omit them or replace them with another crunchy vegetable like cucumber.
Can I add avocado to this salad?
Avocado would be a wonderful addition to this salad, adding a creamy texture that complements the lime.
Is this recipe easy for beginners?
Yes, the instructions are simple and the preparation involves basic chopping and blending.