Tired of boring salads? Elevate your lunch game with this incredibly simple yet sophisticated green salad. In just 15 minutes, you can toss together a vibrant mix of crisp greens, creamy avocado, tangy goat cheese, and a satisfying crunch from raw sunflower seeds. It’s the perfect light meal or elegant side dish that proves healthy eating can be absolutely delicious and effortless. Let’s get tossing!
Ingredients
• 3 cups / 85g mixed greens
• 2 tbsp / 30ml extra-virgin olive oil
• 1 tbsp / 15ml balsamic vinegar
• 1/4 tsp / 1.5g sea salt
• 1/2 medium avocado, diced
• 2 green onions, thinly sliced
• 2 tbsp / 30g raw sunflower seeds
• 2 oz / 56g chèvre goat cheese, crumbled
Instructions
1. Preparation1. In a large serving bowl, whisk together the extra-virgin olive oil, balsamic vinegar, and sea salt to create the vinaigrette.
2. Add the mixed greens and toss gently to coat. Top the salad with the diced avocado, sliced green onions, raw sunflower seeds, and crumbled chèvre before serving.
Nutritional Information
• Serves: 4
• Calories: 330
• Total Carbs: 11g
• Fiber: 6g
• Net Carbs: 5g
• Protein: 10g
• Fat: 30g
Pro Tips
• For a citrusy twist, replace the balsamic vinegar with an equal amount of fresh lemon or orange juice.
• Toast the sunflower seeds in a dry pan for 1-2 minutes over medium heat to deepen their nutty flavor.
• Add a protein boost by topping the salad with grilled chicken, shrimp, or a handful of chickpeas.
• To prevent the avocado from browning, dice it just before serving and toss it with a little lemon juice.
FAQ
Q: Can I make this green salad ahead of time
A: It’s best to assemble this simple green salad just before serving to keep the greens crisp and prevent the avocado from browning. However, you can prepare the components in advance. Whisk the balsamic vinaigrette and store it in an airtight container, and have your goat cheese, green onions, and sunflower seeds ready to go.
Q: What can I use instead of goat cheese
A: If you’re not a fan of chèvre goat cheese, you can easily substitute it with crumbled feta for a similar tangy flavor or small, fresh mozzarella balls (bocconcini) for a milder, creamier taste in your salad.
Q: How can I add more protein to this salad
A: To make this a more filling meal, you can add a protein boost. Grilled chicken, shrimp, salmon, or a handful of chickpeas are all excellent additions that pair well with the avocado and balsamic vinaigrette.
Q: What other nuts or seeds work well in this recipe
A: While sunflower seeds provide a great crunch, feel free to get creative! Toasted pecans, walnuts, slivered almonds, or pumpkin seeds (pepitas) are all fantastic alternatives for this easy green salad recipe.
