In the heart of a bustling farmer’s market, I stumbled upon a vibrant array of sprouts. Clusters of pea shoots, radish sprouts, and sunflower sprouts danced in the sunlight, their green hues almost glowing. I could hardly resist the urge to create a dish that celebrated these tiny powerhouses of flavor and nutrition. Thus, the idea for the Vibrant Sprout Salad with Citrus Vinaigrette was born, a dish that not only showcases the freshness of sprouts but also adds a zing of citrus to elevate the experience.
Ingredients
For the Salad:
– 2 cups mixed sprouts (pea shoots, radish sprouts, sunflower sprouts)
– 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
– 1/2 cucumber, thinly sliced
– 1/4 red onion, thinly sliced
– 1/4 cup feta cheese, crumbled
– 1/4 cup toasted walnuts, roughly chopped
For the Citrus Vinaigrette:
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– Juice of 1 orange
– Juice of 1 lemon
– 1 tablespoon honey (or maple syrup for a vegan option)
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
Begin by whisking together the olive oil, orange juice, lemon juice, and honey in a small bowl. Season with salt and pepper to taste. This citrus vinaigrette will bring a refreshing brightness to the salad, perfectly complementing the earthy flavors of the sprouts.
In a large mixing bowl, combine the mixed sprouts, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, and red onion. Gently toss the ingredients together, allowing the sprouts to mingle with the other vibrant veggies. The colors should pop, creating a feast for the eyes.
Drizzle the citrus vinaigrette over the salad, tossing everything together until well coated. The bright dressing should cling to the sprouts and veggies, adding a luscious sheen.
To serve, plate the salad and sprinkle the crumbled feta cheese and toasted walnuts on top. The feta adds a creamy tang, while the walnuts lend a delightful crunch, completing the textural experience of the dish.
As I took my first bite, the explosion of flavors transported me back to that sunlit market, where the essence of fresh ingredients came alive. This Vibrant Sprout Salad with Citrus Vinaigrette became not just a meal, but a memory, a reminder of the simple joys of cooking with fresh, seasonal produce.