Are you in need of a quick and nutritious meal option that doesn’t compromise on flavor? Look no further than this delightful Quick Salad recipe. Bursting with vibrant colors and fresh ingredients, this salad is not only a feast for the eyes but also a treat for your taste buds. With the perfect balance of creamy avocado, tangy lime juice, and crunchy vegetables, this salad is sure to become a staple in your recipe collection. So, let’s dive in and discover how to whip up this instant refreshment!
Ingredients:
- 1 ripe avocado, sliced
- 1 small red onion, chopped
- 1 can of beans (black beans, kidney beans, or chickpeas), drained and rinsed
- 4-5 radishes, sliced
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- ¼ cup fresh parsley, chopped
- Juice of 1 lime
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
Instructions:
- Prepare the Ingredients: Start by slicing the avocado and chopping the red onion, radishes, cherry tomatoes, and parsley. Drain and rinse the canned beans thoroughly.
- Assemble the Salad: In a large mixing bowl, combine the sliced avocado, chopped red onion, canned beans, sliced radishes, halved cherry tomatoes, and chopped parsley.
- Dress the Salad: Squeeze the juice of one lime over the salad ingredients. Drizzle olive oil on top and season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Toss and Serve: Gently toss all the ingredients together until well combined and evenly coated with the lime juice and olive oil dressing.
- Garnish and Enjoy: Transfer the salad to a serving dish or individual plates. Garnish with additional parsley leaves if desired. Serve immediately and enjoy the fresh, zesty flavors!
Cook’s Notes and Variations:
- Add Protein: Boost the protein content of the salad by adding grilled chicken, cooked shrimp, or tofu cubes.
- Cheese Lover’s Twist: Sprinkle crumbled feta cheese or grated Parmesan cheese over the salad for an extra burst of flavor.
- Crunchy Texture: Incorporate toasted nuts or seeds such as almonds, walnuts, or pumpkin seeds for added crunchiness.
Keto and Low-Carb Versions:
Keto Version:
- Substitute the canned beans with diced avocado or cooked bacon for a keto-friendly option.
- Increase the amount of healthy fats by adding additional avocado slices or drizzling with extra olive oil.
Low-Carb Version:
- Reduce the amount of cherry tomatoes and beans to lower the carb content of the salad.
- Replace the lime juice with apple cider vinegar or lemon juice for a tangy flavor without added sugars.
FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions):
Q: Can I use other types of beans for this recipe? A: Yes, feel free to use any variety of canned beans you prefer, such as black beans, kidney beans, chickpeas, or cannellini beans.
Q: How long does this salad stay fresh? A: This salad is best enjoyed fresh but can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 1-2 days. Keep in mind that the avocado may oxidize over time, so it’s best to add it just before serving.
Q: Can I make this salad ahead of time? A: While it’s best to assemble the salad just before serving to maintain its freshness and texture, you can prepare the ingredients ahead of time and store them separately. Simply toss everything together with the dressing right before serving.
In conclusion, this Quick Salad recipe is a testament to the fact that healthy eating can be both delicious and convenient. With its colorful array of fresh ingredients and zesty lime dressing, this salad is a perfect choice for busy weeknights, light lunches, or as a refreshing side dish at any meal. Whether you’re following a keto diet, looking for a low-carb option, or simply craving a nutritious and flavorful salad, this recipe is sure to hit the spot. So, give it a try and savor the instant refreshment it brings to your table!
