Healthy Fresh Summer Salad Bowl

As the warm sun graces us with longer days and a plethora of fresh produce, summer becomes the perfect season for embracing light and healthy meals. With temperatures rising, many of us are naturally inclined to seek out dishes that are not just nutritious but also refreshing and satisfying. One such dish that encapsulates the essence of summer is the Vibrant Summer Freshness Salad Bowl. This salad is not only a feast for the eyes but also a powerhouse of nutrients designed to invigorate your body and spirit.

Discover the Vibrant Summer Freshness Salad Bowl, the ultimate dish for warm-weather dining! This salad is not only a visual delight but also packed with nutritious ingredients like mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, cucumbers, and avocado. It's easy to customize to suit your taste and dietary needs, making it a healthy main or side dish. Perfect for enjoying fresh summer produce, this salad is quick to prepare and bursting with flavors that will refresh and invigorate your palate. Dive into a bowl of summer goodness today!

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Ingredients

2 cups mixed greens (arugula, spinach, romaine)

1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved

1 cucumber, diced

1 cup bell peppers (red, yellow, or orange), diced

1 cup cooked quinoa (cooled)

1 cup chickpeas, rinsed and drained

1 avocado, sliced

1/4 cup red onion, finely sliced

1/4 cup feta cheese, crumbled (optional)

1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, torn

Juice of 1 lemon

2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil

Salt and pepper to taste

1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar (optional for added depth)

Instructions

Prepare the Base: In a large mixing bowl, combine the mixed greens, cooked quinoa, and chickpeas. Toss gently to mix the base ingredients evenly.

Add Fresh Vegetables: Fold in the cherry tomatoes, cucumber, bell peppers, and red onion. These vibrant veggies add crunch and flavor, making the salad refreshing.

Incorporate Avocado: Carefully add the sliced avocado to the bowl. To keep it intact, you can add the avocado last and avoid mixing too vigorously.

Finishing Touches: Sprinkle the crumbled feta cheese (if using) and fresh basil over the top of the salad.

Make the Dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together the lemon juice, extra-virgin olive oil, salt, pepper, and balsamic vinegar (if using). Adjust the seasoning based on your taste preference.

Dress the Salad: Drizzle the dressing over the salad and toss gently to coat all the ingredients evenly.

Serve and Enjoy: Divide the salad into bowls or plates and serve immediately for a fresh and healthy summer meal, garnished with an extra sprinkle of fresh herbs or cheese if desired.

Prep Time, Total Time, Servings: 15 minutes | 15 minutes | Serves 4