Fresh Summer Salad Bowl

As the sun shines brighter and the days grow longer, the allure of fresh salads becomes undeniable. Summer is the perfect season to embrace lighter meals that are not only refreshing but also packed with nutrients. Salads serve as an excellent way to incorporate a variety of fresh produce into your diet, making them a staple for health-conscious eaters. One standout option for this season is the Vibrant Summer Burst Salad Bowl—a dish that not only celebrates the essence of summer but also delights the palate with its colorful ingredients.

Dive into summer with the Vibrant Summer Burst Salad Bowl, a fresh and colorful dish bursting with seasonal flavors. This nutritious salad features a delightful mix of leafy greens, juicy cherry tomatoes, crunchy cucumbers, creamy avocado, and zesty bell peppers, all topped with feta cheese and roasted pumpkin seeds. Perfect for picnics or light lunches, this salad not only looks beautiful but is also packed with essential vitamins and minerals. Customize it to your taste with a simple homemade dressing and enjoy the essence of summer in every bite.

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Ingredients

2 cups mixed greens (a blend of arugula, spinach, and baby kale)

1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved

1 medium cucumber, diced into bite-sized pieces

1 cup sweet corn (freshly grilled or canned, drained)

1 ripe avocado, diced

1/2 cup red onion, thinly sliced for a mild flavor

1 bell pepper (your choice of color), diced

1/4 cup feta cheese, crumbled for creaminess

1/4 cup roasted pumpkin seeds (pepitas) for a crunchy texture

1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, roughly chopped for a fresh aroma

Salt and pepper to taste

For the Dressing:

1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil for a rich flavor

2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar for a tangy kick

1 tablespoon honey or maple syrup for a hint of sweetness

1 teaspoon Dijon mustard for a touch of sophistication

Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

Prepare the Greens: In a large salad bowl, lay down the mixed greens as the refreshing base of your salad.

Chop the Vegetables: Carefully add the halved cherry tomatoes, diced cucumber, sweet corn, diced avocado, thinly sliced red onion, and diced bell pepper to the greens. Use gentle movements to toss the ingredients together, ensuring an even mix.

Add Toppings: Generously sprinkle the crumbled feta cheese, roasted pumpkin seeds, and freshly chopped basil over the mixed salad, creating a vibrant and colorful appearance.

Make the Dressing: In a small mixing bowl or a mason jar, combine the extra virgin olive oil, balsamic vinegar, honey (or maple syrup), Dijon mustard, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Whisk or shake until the mixture is creamy and well blended.

Dress the Salad: Drizzle the homemade dressing over the vibrant salad and toss gently to ensure each ingredient is nicely coated, enhancing the delicious flavors.

Taste and Adjust: Sample the salad to check the flavor; feel free to adjust the seasoning with additional salt, pepper, or dressing as desired for your preferred taste.

Serve: Serve the salad immediately, enjoying it as a delightful accompaniment to your favorite grilled proteins or relish it as a light, nutritious main dish on its own!

Prep Time, Total Time, Servings: 15 minutes | 15 minutes | 4 servings

- Presentation Tips: For an appealing display, serve the salad in individual bowls, garnishing with a sprig of basil or an extra sprinkle of pumpkin seeds for that extra touch.