As the first signs of spring peek through the remnants of winter, I find myself enchanted by the vibrant life that sprouts emerge. This salad was born on a sunny afternoon in my garden, where I was inspired by the fresh, earthy aroma of newly sprouted greens. The lively crunch of sprouts combined with a bright citrus vinaigrette creates a dish that’s not just a treat for the taste buds but also a joyful celebration of the season. This recipe brings together a medley of flavors and textures, creating a delightful dish that’s perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients
2 cups mixed sprouts (such as alfalfa, radish, and broccoli)
1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
1 cucumber, thinly sliced
1/2 cup shredded carrots
1/4 cup red onion, thinly sliced
1 avocado, diced
1/4 cup walnuts, roughly chopped
Fresh herbs (such as cilantro and mint) for garnish
Citrus Vinaigrette
1/4 cup olive oil
2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
2 tablespoons fresh orange juice
1 teaspoon honey or maple syrup
Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
Begin by preparing the citrus vinaigrette. In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, lemon juice, orange juice, and honey. Season with salt and pepper to taste, ensuring the flavors meld beautifully. Set aside to let the ingredients marry while you prepare the salad.
In a large mixing bowl, combine the mixed sprouts, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, shredded carrots, and red onion. Gently toss the ingredients together, allowing the colors to mix and the textures to play off each other.
Carefully fold in the diced avocado and walnuts, ensuring you don’t mash the avocado. Its creamy texture will complement the crunchy sprouts and vegetables beautifully.
Drizzle the citrus vinaigrette over the salad, tossing gently to coat all the ingredients evenly. Take a moment to admire the vibrant colors and the way the dressing glistens on the fresh vegetables.
To serve, transfer the salad to a large serving platter or individual bowls. Garnish with fresh herbs like cilantro and mint for a refreshing finish. This salad is not only a feast for the eyes but also a refreshing burst of flavors that will awaken your palate.
Enjoy this Springtime Sprout Salad as a light lunch, a side dish at dinner, or even as a vibrant centerpiece for your next gathering. Each bite will remind you of the beauty and renewal that comes with spring.