Lettuce, Apple, and Carrot Salad with Chili Dressing
Discover a delightful way to enjoy a healthy, refreshing, and flavorful salad with this Lettuce, Apple, and Carrot Salad with Chili Dressing Recipe. Packed with vibrant colors and a harmonious mix of textures, this salad is a perfect side dish for brunches or light meals. The crispness of iceberg lettuce, the sweetness of apples and carrots, and the subtle heat of the chili dressing make it irresistible. Here’s everything you need to know to make this simple yet elegant salad.
Recipe Overview
| Cuisine | Continental |
|---|---|
| Course | Side Dish |
| Diet | Vegetarian |
| Prep Time | 15 minutes |
| Cook Time | 0 minutes |
| Total Time | 15 minutes |
| Servings | 4 |
Ingredients
The following table outlines the ingredients required to create this vibrant salad:
| Ingredients | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Iceberg lettuce | 2 cups, roughly torn |
| Carrot (Gajjar) | 2, cut into long strips |
| Apple | 1, thinly sliced |
| Cucumber | 1, cut into long strips |
| For the Dressing | |
| Lemon juice | 2 teaspoons |
| Honey | 1 teaspoon |
| Red chili powder | 1 teaspoon |
| Salt | To taste |
Nutritional Information (Per Serving)
| Nutrient | Approx. Value |
|---|---|
| Calories | 65 kcal |
| Carbohydrates | 15 g |
| Protein | 1.2 g |
| Fats | 0.5 g |
| Fiber | 3.1 g |
| Sugar | 9.5 g |
| Sodium | 200 mg (adjust per salt preference) |
Instructions
Follow these easy steps to create the Lettuce, Apple, and Carrot Salad with Chili Dressing:
Step 1: Prepare the Vegetables and Fruits
- Begin by washing all the vegetables and fruits thoroughly under running water to ensure they are clean and fresh.
- Slice the apple into thin wedges and remove the seeds.
- Peel the carrot and cucumber, then cut them into long, even strips.
- Tear the iceberg lettuce into rough, bite-sized pieces using your hands.
Step 2: Assemble the Salad
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the torn iceberg lettuce, sliced apple, carrot strips, and cucumber strips.
- Gently toss the ingredients together to ensure even distribution.
- Cover the salad bowl with cling wrap and refrigerate for 20–30 minutes. This step helps to enhance the crispness of the vegetables and the overall freshness of the salad.
Step 3: Prepare the Dressing
- In a small bowl, mix together:
- 2 teaspoons of lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon of honey
- 1 teaspoon of red chili powder
- Salt to taste
- Whisk the dressing thoroughly until it is well combined and smooth.
Step 4: Toss and Serve
- After 20–30 minutes, remove the salad bowl from the fridge.
- Pour the prepared chili dressing over the salad.
- Gently toss everything together, ensuring that the dressing coats all the ingredients evenly.
- Serve the salad immediately to enjoy its vibrant flavors and crisp textures.
Serving Suggestions
This salad pairs beautifully with a variety of dishes. Here are some ideas to create a well-rounded meal:
- Soup Pairing: Serve it with a warm bowl of Butternut Squash and Carrot Soup for a comforting meal.
- Sandwich Accompaniment: Pair it with a Grilled Tofu Spinach Sandwich or any hearty sandwich of your choice.
- Light Lunch: Enjoy this salad on its own as a light and nutritious lunch option.
Tips for the Perfect Salad
- Use Fresh Ingredients: Opt for the freshest vegetables and fruits for the best texture and flavor.
- Customize Heat Level: Adjust the quantity of red chili powder in the dressing to match your heat preference.
- Prevent Browning: To prevent apples from browning, toss them in a little lemon juice before mixing them into the salad.
- Add Nuts or Seeds: Sprinkle some roasted almonds, walnuts, or sunflower seeds on top for an extra crunch.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and Easy: This salad requires minimal preparation and no cooking, making it ideal for busy days.
- Healthy and Nutritious: Packed with fiber, vitamins, and minerals, it’s a guilt-free side dish.
- Flavorful Twist: The chili dressing offers a perfect balance of sweetness, tanginess, and spice.
Make this Lettuce, Apple, and Carrot Salad with Chili Dressing the centerpiece of your next meal, and watch your guests savor every bite. Enjoy the perfect harmony of freshness, crunch, and spice in each forkful!
