Summer Veggie Salad Recipe ๐ฅ
Overview:
This delightful Summer Veggie Salad is a burst of freshness and flavor, perfect for spring and summer gatherings or a quick, healthy meal option. Packed with vibrant vegetables and tossed in a zesty dressing, it’s a crowd-pleaser that’s easy to prepare and even easier to enjoy. With just a short prep and cook time, you can have this colorful dish ready in no time!
- Preparation Time: 30 minutes
- Cooking Time: 4 minutes
- Total Time: 34 minutes
- Servings: 12
Ingredients:
- 1 carrot
- 1 cup fresh green beans
- 1 cup sugar snap peas
- 1 zucchini
- 1 yellow squash
- 1/2 cup sliced green onions
- 1/2 cup diced red bell pepper
- 1/2 cup sliced ripe olives
- 1 cup olive oil
- 6 tablespoons lemon juice
- 4 1/2 tablespoons red wine vinegar
- 1 tablespoon cider vinegar
- 1/4 cup chopped parsley
- 1 teaspoon sugar
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/3 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Instructions:
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Prepare Vegetables:
- In a large saucepan, bring 4 inches of water to a boil.
- Add carrots, green beans, and sugar snap peas to the boiling water.
- Cook for 4 minutes until the vegetables are tender yet crisp.
- Drain the vegetables and rinse them in cold water to stop the cooking process.
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Combine Vegetables:
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the blanched carrots, green beans, and sugar snap peas.
- Add diced zucchini, yellow squash, green onions, diced red bell pepper, and sliced ripe olives to the bowl.
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Prepare Dressing:
- In a jar with a tight-fitting lid, combine olive oil, lemon juice, red wine vinegar, cider vinegar, chopped parsley, minced garlic, sugar, salt, and black pepper.
- Secure the lid tightly and shake vigorously until all ingredients are well combined.
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Toss and Chill:
- Pour the prepared dressing over the vegetable mixture in the bowl.
- Gently toss the vegetables until they are evenly coated with the dressing.
- Cover the bowl and refrigerate the salad for at least 1 hour to allow the flavors to meld together.
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Final Touch:
- Just before serving, sprinkle the grated Parmesan cheese over the chilled salad for an added burst of flavor and texture.
Nutritional Information (Per Serving):
- Calories: 99
- Fat: 8.3g
- Saturated Fat: 1.5g
- Cholesterol: 2.4mg
- Sodium: 188.4mg
- Carbohydrates: 5.2g
- Fiber: 1.5g
- Sugar: 2.4g
- Protein: 2g
Tips:
- For added crunch, consider tossing in some toasted nuts or seeds such as almonds or sunflower seeds.
- Customize the salad by adding your favorite vegetables or herbs for a personalized touch.
- Make ahead and store in the refrigerator for up to 2 days, although it’s best enjoyed fresh.
- Serve as a side dish at barbecues, picnics, or potlucks, or enjoy it as a light and nutritious meal on its own.
Conclusion:
This Summer Veggie Salad is a celebration of seasonal produce and vibrant flavors, making it a must-have for your spring and summer recipe collection. Whether you’re entertaining guests or simply craving a healthy dish bursting with color and freshness, this salad is sure to impress. With its simple preparation and delicious taste, it’s bound to become a favorite in your kitchen. Enjoy the bounty of the season with this delightful and nutritious salad! ๐ฑ๐ฅ๐ฅ
