In the heart of a bustling farmers’ market, I stumbled upon a colorful array of seeds. The vendor was a cheerful old man with a passion for gardening, sharing stories of how each seed had a unique flavor and purpose. Inspired by his tales, I decided to create a salad that celebrated the delightful crunch and diverse flavors of seeds. This Whimsical Seed & Spice Medley Salad is a tribute to that day, bursting with life and texture. A perfect addition to any picnic or a refreshing side dish for a dinner party, it embodies the joy of simplicity and the beauty of nature.
Ingredients
½ cup sunflower seeds
½ cup pumpkin seeds
¼ cup sesame seeds
¼ cup flaxseeds
1 cup mixed greens (arugula, spinach, kale)
1 small cucumber, diced
1 bell pepper (any color), diced
½ cup cherry tomatoes, halved
¼ cup red onion, finely chopped
¼ cup fresh herbs (parsley, cilantro, or basil), chopped
3 tablespoons olive oil
2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
1 tablespoon honey or maple syrup
Salt and pepper to taste
Optional: feta cheese or avocado for topping
Instructions
Begin by toasting the sunflower and pumpkin seeds in a dry skillet over medium heat. Stir them frequently for about 5-7 minutes until they turn golden and fragrant. This step enhances their nutty flavor and adds a delightful crunch to the salad. Once toasted, set them aside to cool.
In a large bowl, combine the mixed greens, diced cucumber, bell pepper, cherry tomatoes, red onion, and fresh herbs. These vibrant vegetables not only add color but also provide a refreshing crunch that complements the seeds perfectly.
In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, apple cider vinegar, honey or maple syrup, salt, and pepper. This dressing balances the earthiness of the seeds and the brightness of the vegetables, creating a harmonious blend of flavors.
Pour the dressing over the salad and toss gently to combine, ensuring every ingredient is coated in the zesty mixture. Finally, fold in the toasted sunflower and pumpkin seeds, flaxseeds, and sesame seeds for an exciting texture.
For an extra indulgent touch, crumble some feta cheese on top or add slices of creamy avocado. Serve immediately and watch as your guests marvel at the vibrant colors and delightful flavors of this unique salad. It’s not just a meal; it’s an experience that captures the essence of nature’s bounty.