Rainbow Veggie, Peach, and Basil Chopped Salad
The ultimate make-every-single-day family-sized summer salad. No high-calorie items so it's perfect to pair with anything! Or add chicken and eat a huge portion as a meal.
The ultimate make-every-single-day family-sized summer salad. No high-calorie items so it's perfect to pair with anything! Or add chicken and eat a huge portion as a meal.
- avocado
- bacon
- mixed greens chopped! - 200 g (i like spring mix
- diced cucumber- 100 g (a large handful!)
- corn sliced off the cob- 100 g (see note below)*
- halved cherry tomatoes -100g
- diced bell peppers-100 g (i prefer orange yellow, or red)
- diced peachesâ 100 g (when out of season apples, grapes, strawberries, pears -- and just about any fruit
- diced red onion-60 g
- a handful of fresh basil leaves chopped
- a small handful of fresh mint leaves chopped (i k
- 2 g of your favorite balsamic vinegar.**
- big pinch of kosher salt and several grinds of fr
- grilled chicken like this basil lemon honey one
- shaved parmesan chopped mozzarella, or blue cheese
- balsamic glaze drizzle! (key!)
- Carbohydrate 0.56484375 g
- Cholesterol 17 mg
- Fat 11.9471875 g
- Fiber 0.314062491059303 g
- Protein 2.99375 g
- Saturated Fat 3.84790625 g
- Serving Size 1 1 -4 (31g)
- Sodium 208.578125 mg
- Sugar 0.250781258940697 g
- Trans Fat 1.284578125 g
- Calories 122 calories
Step-by-step
- Grab a handful of greens at a time and chop on a large cutting board- transfer to large bowl.
- Add the rest of the veggies, fruits, and herbs- and don't underestimate the importance of everything being chopped small! It's the key to NOT needing a rich salad dressing over all of these veggies.
- Top with a good pinch of kosher salt, fresh cracked pepper, and quality balsamic vinegar. Toss!
Rainbow Veggie, Peach, and Basil Chopped Salad: A Summer Staple
As a busy working mom, finding time to prepare healthy and delicious meals for my family is always a top priority. This Rainbow Veggie, Peach, and Basil Chopped Salad has become a summer staple in our house, and for good reason. It's incredibly versatile, vibrant, and surprisingly easy to whip up, even on my busiest days. The best part? It's packed with fresh, wholesome ingredients and requires minimal cooking, making it a perfect light lunch or a refreshing side dish for any occasion.
The beauty of this salad lies in its simplicity and adaptability. I love the combination of sweet peaches and crunchy vegetables, perfectly balanced by the fragrant basil and a tangy balsamic vinaigrette. The recipe itself is a guideline; feel free to experiment with different fruits and vegetables based on your preferences and what's in season. One day, I might swap the peaches for juicy strawberries or crisp apples. Other times, I might add grilled chicken or shrimp for a more substantial meal. The possibilities are endless!
What truly sets this salad apart is the emphasis on finely chopping all the ingredients. This ensures that each bite is a harmonious blend of textures and flavors, eliminating the need for a heavy, creamy dressing. A simple drizzle of high-quality balsamic vinegar, a sprinkle of salt and pepper, and that's all it takes to bring out the natural sweetness and savory notes of the vegetables and fruit. The small size of the ingredients ensures everything is beautifully combined, and the salad doesn't become soggy.
I often prepare this salad in advance, storing it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It keeps well for a day or two, allowing me to grab a quick and healthy lunch throughout the week. This is especially convenient on busy weekdays when I'm short on time but still want to nourish my body with a delicious, nutrient-rich meal. This salad is also great to take to potlucks or picnics, as it travels well and doesn't require any special preparation before serving.
Beyond its convenience and deliciousness, this salad also boasts an impressive nutritional profile. It's bursting with vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants, making it a guilt-free indulgence that will leave you feeling energized and satisfied. The colorful array of vegetables and fruits not only enhances its visual appeal but also contributes to a diverse range of health benefits. The fiber-rich vegetables promote digestive health, while the antioxidants in the fruits help protect against cell damage. It's a win-win situation!
So, whether you're a busy professional, a stay-at-home mom, or simply someone who appreciates a quick and easy meal that's both healthy and delicious, this Rainbow Veggie, Peach, and Basil Chopped Salad is a recipe you should definitely try. It's a versatile, vibrant, and adaptable salad that can be customized to your liking and become a regular feature on your dinner table. Give it a try and let me know what you think!
Ingredients I often use as substitutes:
- Instead of Peaches: Apples, grapes, strawberries, pears.
- Instead of Bell Peppers: Any color you prefer!
- Add-ins: Grilled chicken, shrimp, feta cheese, toasted nuts.
Tips for the perfect salad:
- Chop everything small for even flavor and texture.
- Use high-quality balsamic vinegar for the best flavor.
- Make it ahead of time to save time during the week.
Enjoy!
