Elevate Your Salad Game: Viral Green Goddess Salad
Are you ready to tantalize your taste buds with a salad that’s both vibrant and full of flavor? Look no further than our Viral Green Goddess Salad! This refreshing dish features a tantalizing blend of crisp vegetables and a zesty homemade dressing that’s sure to become your new go-to recipe. Join us as we explore the step-by-step process of creating this viral sensation that’s perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients:
For the Dressing:
- 2 lemons, juiced
- ¼ cup olive oil
- 2 tablespoons rice vinegar
- 1 cup fresh basil leaves
- 1 cup fresh spinach
- 2 garlic cloves
- 1 small shallot
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ¼ cup walnuts or nut of your choice
For the Salad:
- 1 small cabbage head, finely diced
- 1 large English cucumber
- 3 tablespoons chopped chives
- 5-7 green onions, chopped
Instructions:
1. Prepare the Dressing:
- In a blender or food processor, combine the lemon juice, olive oil, rice vinegar, basil leaves, spinach, garlic cloves, shallot, salt, and walnuts. Blend until smooth and creamy. Set aside.
2. Prepare the Salad Ingredients:
- Finely dice the cabbage head and place it in a large mixing bowl.
- Slice the English cucumber into thin rounds and add them to the bowl.
- Add the chopped chives and green onions to the bowl as well.
3. Toss with Dressing:
- Pour the prepared dressing over the salad ingredients in the bowl. Toss gently until the vegetables are evenly coated with the dressing.
4. Chill and Serve:
- Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate the salad for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.
- Serve chilled and garnish with additional chopped herbs or nuts, if desired.
Cook’s Notes and Variations:
- Add Protein: Boost the protein content of the salad by adding grilled chicken, shrimp, or tofu.
- Extra Crunch: Add a crunchy texture to the salad by tossing in some toasted sunflower seeds or almonds.
- Swap Greens: Feel free to experiment with different leafy greens such as kale or arugula in the dressing for a unique flavor twist.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs):
Q: Can I make the dressing ahead of time? A: Yes, you can prepare the dressing in advance and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week. Just give it a good shake or stir before using.
Q: Can I use a different type of nut in the dressing? A: Absolutely! Feel free to swap out the walnuts for almonds, pecans, or pine nuts depending on your preference.
Q: How long will the salad last in the refrigerator? A: The assembled salad will keep well in the refrigerator for up to 2-3 days. Just be sure to store it in an airtight container to maintain freshness.
Q: Can I customize the salad with additional vegetables? A: Of course! Get creative and add your favorite vegetables such as bell peppers, carrots, or cherry tomatoes to customize the salad to your liking.
Q: Is this salad suitable for a vegan diet? A: Yes, this salad is vegan-friendly as long as you ensure that all the ingredients, including the dressing, are plant-based.
Keto and Low-Carb Versions:
For those following a keto or low-carb diet, you can make the following adjustments:
- Reduce Fruit Content: Since lemons are relatively low in carbs, you can still enjoy the dressing in moderation. However, you may want to reduce the amount of fruit in the dressing to minimize carb intake.
- Swap Vegetables: Opt for low-carb vegetables such as bell peppers, zucchini, or broccoli in the salad to keep carb counts in check.
- Use Avocado Oil: Substitute avocado oil for olive oil in the dressing for a keto-friendly option with a similar flavor profile.
In conclusion, our Viral Green Goddess Salad is a refreshing and nutritious dish that’s perfect for any mealtime. With its vibrant colors, crisp textures, and zesty dressing, this salad is sure to please even the most discerning palates. Whether you’re hosting a summer barbecue or simply looking for a light and healthy lunch option, this salad is guaranteed to impress. So why wait? Whip up a batch today and prepare to be amazed by the delicious flavors of this viral sensation!
