There’s something magical about the first bite of a fresh salad that bursts with flavor and texture, especially when it’s crafted from the smallest of greens—microgreens. One sunny afternoon, while strolling through a local farmer’s market, I stumbled upon a vibrant array of microgreens: delicate pea shoots, zesty radish greens, and the peppery notes of arugula. Inspired by their beauty and freshness, I decided to create a salad that would showcase these tiny greens in all their glory. This Microgreens Medley Salad with Citrus Vinaigrette is not only a feast for the eyes but also a delightful dance of flavors that will brighten any table.
Ingredients
1 cup mixed microgreens (such as pea shoots, radish greens, and arugula)
1/2 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
1/4 cup cucumber, thinly sliced
1/4 cup thinly sliced red onion
1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese (optional)
1/4 cup walnuts, toasted
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
1 tablespoon orange juice
1 teaspoon honey or agave syrup
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh herbs for garnish (such as basil or dill)
Instructions
Begin by preparing the vibrant ingredients for your salad. Rinse the microgreens gently under cold water, then pat them dry with a paper towel. This step ensures that your salad remains crisp and fresh. Next, in a medium-sized bowl, combine the cherry tomatoes, cucumber, and red onion. The pop of color from the tomatoes, the crunch of the cucumber, and the bite of the onion will provide a wonderful contrast to the delicate microgreens.
In a small mixing bowl, whisk together the olive oil, lemon juice, orange juice, and honey. This citrus vinaigrette will add a bright, zesty note to the dish. Season it with salt and pepper to taste, ensuring that the flavors balance perfectly. The sweetness of the honey paired with the tanginess of the citrus will elevate the salad to another level.
Now it’s time to assemble your masterpiece. In a large serving bowl, gently toss the microgreens with the cherry tomato, cucumber, and red onion mixture. Drizzle the citrus vinaigrette over the salad, tossing lightly to coat all the ingredients without bruising the microgreens. If you’re using feta cheese, sprinkle it over the top along with the toasted walnuts for added texture and richness.
Finish off your salad with a sprinkle of fresh herbs for a pop of color and flavor. Serve immediately and watch as your guests marvel at the beauty of this dish. Each bite will be a delightful explosion of freshness, making this Microgreens Medley Salad a perfect addition to any meal or a light dish on its own.
Enjoy this celebration of microgreens, where simplicity meets sophistication in a bowl!