Vibrant Dandelion Greens and Avocado Salad
This Vibrant Dandelion Greens and Avocado Salad is a delightful fusion of tastes and textures, inspired by the creativity of Jessica K's recipe. Utilizing fresh dandelion greens, which are best sourced from untreated lawns or farmers' markets, this salad harnesses the slightly bitter flavor of the greens, perfectly balanced by the creaminess of ripe avocados and the juiciness of vine-ripened tomatoes. Cucumber adds a refreshing crunch, while slivers of red onion provide a subtle bite. With a drizzle of high-quality extra virgin olive oil and a splash of refreshing lemon juice, this salad is not only nutritious but also a feast for the senses. Ideal as a light lunch or a side dish, this salad is sure to impress your palate while introducing the wild side of salad greens.
N/A
Servings
N/A
Calories
10
Ingredients
Ingredients
Dandelion greens
2 cups (cleaned and dried (or arugula))
Red onions
2 teaspoons (slivered)
Ripe avocados
2 (sliced)
Vine ripened tomatoes
2 (sliced)
Cucumber
1 (peeled and sliced)
Extra virgin olive oil or organic flax seed oil
2-3 tablespoons (for dressing)
Fresh lemon juice
3-4 teaspoons (for dressing)
Dried dill
1/4 teaspoon (for seasoning)
Salt
to taste
Freshly ground black pepper
to taste
Instructions
1
Begin by thoroughly washing and drying the dandelion greens or arugula. Tear the greens into bite-sized pieces, discarding any tough stems, and place them in a large salad bowl.
2
Add the slivered red onions, sliced avocados, sliced tomatoes, and peeled cucumber to the bowl with the greens.
3
In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil (or flaxseed oil), lemon juice, dried dill, salt, and freshly ground black pepper until well combined. Adjust seasoning to taste.
4
Pour the dressing over the salad ingredients in the bowl.
5
Gently toss the salad to combine all ingredients, ensuring the greens are coated with the dressing. Serve immediately for the best freshness.
Nutrition Information
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the primary green used in the Vibrant Dandelion Greens and Avocado Salad?
The primary green used is dandelion greens, though arugula can be used as a substitute.
Can I use a substitute if I cannot find dandelion greens?
Yes, arugula is a recommended substitute if dandelion greens are unavailable.
Where should I source dandelion greens for this salad?
It is best to source dandelion greens from untreated lawns or local farmers' markets.
What is the flavor profile of dandelion greens?
Dandelion greens have a slightly bitter flavor that is balanced by creamy avocado and juicy tomatoes.
How should I prepare the dandelion greens before adding them to the bowl?
They should be thoroughly washed, dried, and torn into bite-sized pieces with tough stems discarded.
Is this salad suitable for a vegan diet?
Yes, this salad is vegan as it contains no animal products.
Is the Vibrant Dandelion Greens and Avocado Salad gluten-free?
Yes, this recipe is naturally gluten-free.
What type of tomatoes are recommended for this recipe?
The recipe calls for vine-ripened tomatoes for the best juiciness and flavor.
How many avocados are needed for this salad?
The recipe requires 2 ripe avocados, sliced.
What ingredients make up the salad dressing?
The dressing consists of extra virgin olive oil (or flaxseed oil), lemon juice, dried dill, salt, and freshly ground black pepper.
Can I use an alternative to olive oil in the dressing?
Yes, organic flaxseed oil is a recommended alternative to extra virgin olive oil.
How much lemon juice should be added to the dressing?
The recipe suggests using 3 to 4 teaspoons of fresh lemon juice.
Should the cucumber be peeled for this salad?
Yes, the recipe specifies using one peeled and sliced cucumber.
How are the red onions prepared?
The red onions should be slivered before being added to the salad.
What is the recommended way to mix the salad?
Gently toss the salad to ensure the greens are evenly coated with the dressing without crushing the delicate ingredients.
How should the dressing be combined?
Whisk the oil, lemon juice, and seasonings in a small bowl until well combined before pouring over the salad.
Can I store this salad for later?
For best freshness, it is recommended to serve the salad immediately after tossing.
What seasoning herb is used in the dressing?
The recipe uses 1/4 teaspoon of dried dill for seasoning.
How many people does this recipe serve?
While the exact serving count isn't specified, it is ideal as a light lunch for two or a side dish for a small group.
What inspired this salad recipe?
This recipe was inspired by the creativity of Jessica K's recipe.
Is this salad considered a heavy meal?
No, it is described as a light meal or a refreshing side dish.
How many ingredients are in this recipe?
There are a total of 10 ingredients including the seasonings.
What adds the 'refreshing crunch' to the salad?
The cucumber provides the refreshing crunch mentioned in the description.
What role does the avocado play in the flavor balance?
The avocado provides a creaminess that perfectly balances the slight bitterness of the dandelion greens.
What should I do if the stems of the dandelion greens are tough?
You should discard any tough stems when tearing the greens into bite-sized pieces.
How much salt and pepper should I add?
Salt and freshly ground black pepper should be added to taste.
Why is it important to wash the dandelion greens thoroughly?
Since they are often wild-foraged or from lawns, thorough washing ensures they are clean and safe for consumption.
Is this a good recipe for the summer season?
Yes, it is tagged as a summer recipe because of its fresh and light ingredients.
What does the red onion add to the dish?
The slivers of red onion provide a subtle bite and extra layer of flavor.
What is the first step in making this salad?
The first step is to thoroughly wash and dry the dandelion greens or arugula.