Vegetable Toss Recipe
Overview
Welcome to the Vegetable Toss recipe, a delightful salad that originates from the vibrant Salinas Valley, known as the Salad Bowl of the World for its abundant produce. This salad is perfect for gatherings and can be easily doubled to accommodate a crowd. It features a refreshing blend of romaine lettuce, broccoli, cauliflower, and a tangy dressing, garnished with radishes and green onions. Let’s dive into how to prepare this flavorful dish!
Ingredients
Here are the ingredients you’ll need for the Vegetable Toss:
| Quantity | Ingredient |
|---|---|
| 1/2 | Romaine lettuce |
| 1 | Broccoli |
| 1/2 | Cauliflower |
| 1/4 | Radish |
| 1/4 | Low-fat mayonnaise |
| 1/4 | Sour cream |
| 1/2 | Dijon mustard |
| 2 | Green onions |
| 1/4 | Dried dill weed |
| – | Fresh ground pepper |
| – | Imitation bacon bits (optional topping) |
Nutrition Facts
- Calories: 72.1 per serving
- Total Fat: 2.6g
- Saturated Fat: 1.3g
- Cholesterol: 4.2mg
- Sodium: 56.8mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 10.6g
- Dietary Fiber: 4.5g
- Sugars: 3.1g
- Protein: 4.4g
Instructions
Follow these step-by-step instructions to create the Vegetable Toss:
-
Prepare the Salad Layers:
- Begin by layering half of the romaine lettuce, broccoli, and cauliflower in a clear salad bowl.
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Add Radishes:
- Top the layered vegetables with sliced radishes.
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Prepare the Dressing:
- In a separate bowl, mix together the low-fat mayonnaise, sour cream, Dijon mustard, and chopped green onions until well combined.
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Assemble the Salad:
- Drop spoonfuls of the dressing mixture onto the cauliflower layer of the salad.
- Sprinkle the top with dried dill weed and fresh ground pepper to taste.
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Refrigerate:
- Cover the salad bowl and refrigerate for at least 2 hours to allow the flavors to meld together.
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Serve:
- Just before serving, sprinkle with your favorite salad topping, such as imitation bacon bits for added texture and flavor.
Tips for Success
- Freshness Matters: Use the freshest vegetables available for the best taste and texture.
- Make-Ahead: This salad can be prepared up to a day in advance, making it perfect for potlucks and parties.
- Customize: Feel free to adjust the dressing ingredients to suit your taste preferences, such as adding more mustard for a tangier flavor or adjusting the amount of sour cream for creaminess.
Serving Suggestions
- Serve the Vegetable Toss as a refreshing side dish alongside grilled meats or as a standalone light lunch.
- Pair with crusty bread or rolls to complete the meal.
Conclusion
With its crisp vegetables, creamy dressing, and a touch of tanginess from the mustard and green onions, the Vegetable Toss is a versatile salad that celebrates the bountiful produce of the Salinas Valley. Enjoy this dish at your next gathering and savor the flavors of California’s Salad Bowl of the World!
