Healthy Fresh Summer Salad Bowl

As summer approaches, the desire for fresh, seasonal salads becomes increasingly appealing. With the sun shining bright and temperatures rising, nothing quite compares to the crisp, refreshing taste of a salad bursting with vibrant ingredients. Salads not only provide a satisfying meal but also celebrate the bounty of summer produce, making them an essential part of warm-weather dining. The Vibrant Summer Freshness Salad Bowl embodies this ethos, blending an array of flavors, textures, and colors that create a delightful experience for the palate and the eyes.

Discover the joy of summer dining with the Vibrant Summer Freshness Salad Bowl! This colorful, nutrient-packed salad combines mixed greens, juicy cherry tomatoes, crunchy cucumbers, and protein-rich quinoa, all topped with creamy avocado and a zesty lemon dressing. Perfect as a light meal or a refreshing side dish for gatherings, it's not just a feast for the eyes but also a celebration of the season's best produce. Dive into this healthy, versatile recipe and savor the taste of summer!

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Ingredients

2 cups mixed greens (such as arugula, baby spinach, and romaine)

1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved for bursts of sweetness

1 cucumber, diced for a refreshing crunch

1 cup assorted bell peppers (red, yellow, or orange), diced for a pop of color

1 cup cooked quinoa, cooled to room temperature for texture

1 cup canned chickpeas, rinsed and drained for protein

1 ripe avocado, sliced for creaminess

1/4 cup red onion, finely sliced for a hint of sharpness

1/4 cup feta cheese, crumbled (optional for a savory twist)

1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, torn to release their aroma

Juice of 1 fresh lemon for brightness

2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil to enhance flavor

Salt and pepper, to taste for seasoning

1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar (optional to elevate the flavor profile)

Instructions

Prepare the Base: In a large mixing bowl, combine the mixed greens, cooked quinoa, and chickpeas. Gently toss to mix these foundational ingredients, ensuring the quinoa is evenly distributed among the greens.

Add Fresh Vegetables: Carefully fold in the halved cherry tomatoes, diced cucumber, colorful bell peppers, and thinly sliced red onion. These vibrant vegetables enhance the salad not only visually but also texturally, creating a refreshing crunch.

Incorporate Avocado: Add the sliced avocado to the bowl with care. To maintain its shape and creaminess, it's best to add the avocado last and use a gentle hand while mixing.

Finishing Touches: Sprinkle the crumbled feta cheese over the top of the salad, if using, and scatter the torn basil leaves to infuse the dish with a fresh herbal note.

Make the Dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together the freshly squeezed lemon juice, extra-virgin olive oil, salt, freshly ground pepper, and balsamic vinegar (if desired). Taste and adjust seasoning to align with your preferences.

Dress the Salad: Drizzle the prepared dressing evenly over the salad. Toss gently with two large utensils to ensure all the ingredients are beautifully coated without mashing the avocado.

Serve and Enjoy: Carefully divide the salad into individual bowls or plates for serving. For an aesthetic touch, garnish with additional fresh herbs or a sprinkle of feta cheese. Serve immediately to enjoy this crisp and colorful summer meal at its finest.

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