In the heart of spring, when the earth seems to awaken from its slumber, I found myself mesmerized by the vibrant green sprouts peeking through the soil in my garden. It was a sunny afternoon, and inspiration struck as I thought about how these little powerhouses could transform a simple salad into a culinary delight. This Zesty Citrus & Herb Salad combines crunchy sprouts with zesty citrus notes and fragrant herbs, making it the perfect dish to celebrate the season.
Ingredients
2 cups mixed sprouts (such as alfalfa, radish, and broccoli)
1 large orange, segmented
1 grapefruit, segmented
1 avocado, diced
½ cup cherry tomatoes, halved
¼ cup red onion, thinly sliced
¼ cup fresh cilantro, chopped
¼ cup fresh mint, chopped
3 tablespoons olive oil
2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
1 tablespoon honey
Salt and pepper to taste
Zest of 1 lemon
Instructions
The beauty of this salad lies not only in its presentation but also in its simplicity. Start by gathering all your fresh ingredients on the countertop, letting their colors inspire you.
Begin by rinsing the mixed sprouts under cool water, allowing them to drain well. This will ensure they are crisp and ready to shine in your salad.
In a large mixing bowl, gently combine the drained sprouts, orange segments, grapefruit segments, diced avocado, halved cherry tomatoes, and thinly sliced red onion. The burst of colors will remind you of a beautiful spring garden.
In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, apple cider vinegar, honey, salt, and pepper. Drizzle this dressing over the salad, tossing gently to combine all the ingredients. The dressing will bring out the freshness and vibrancy of the sprouts and fruits.
Finally, sprinkle the chopped cilantro, mint, and lemon zest over the top. Give it one last gentle toss, and your Zesty Citrus & Herb Salad is ready to be served.
This salad is not just a feast for the eyes; it’s a celebration of flavors. The crunch of the sprouts complements the sweetness of the fruits and the creaminess of the avocado, while the herbs add a refreshing note. As you take your first bite, you’ll be transported to that sunny afternoon in the garden, where nature and culinary creativity come together in perfect harmony.
Serve this salad as a light lunch, a side dish for your dinner, or a show-stopping centerpiece at your next gathering. Enjoy the vibrant flavors and the nourishing goodness of sprouts, and let every bite remind you of the joys of spring!