Discover the vibrant flavors of Italy with our "Italian Greens and Herb Salad with Agave Lemon Vinaigrette Dressing"! This refreshing salad is not just a feast for the eyes; it's a delightful blend of mixed greens and aromatic herbs that will transport your taste buds straight to a sun-soaked Italian terrace. With just 15 minutes of prep time, you can whip up this healthy dish that’s perfect for any occasion—whether it's a light lunch, a side for dinner, or a picnic delight. Dive into this recipe and learn how to create a salad that’s bursting with freshness and flavor, all while impressing your guests with your culinary skills!
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: -
Total Time: 15 mins
Cuisine: Italian
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 4 cups mixed greens
- 1 cup fresh herbs (basil, parsley, oregano)
- 1/4 cup agave syrup
- 1/4 cup fresh lemon juice
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Thoroughly wash the mixed greens and fresh herbs under cold running water, ensuring all dirt and debris are removed.
- Gently pat the greens and herbs dry using clean paper towels or a salad spinner to remove excess moisture.
- Carefully chop the fresh herbs into fine, uniform pieces, releasing their aromatic oils and maximizing flavor distribution.
- In a separate small mixing bowl, combine the agave syrup, fresh lemon juice, and olive oil, whisking vigorously to create a smooth, well-integrated vinaigrette.
- Season the vinaigrette with salt and freshly ground black pepper, tasting and adjusting the seasoning as needed to balance the sweet, tangy, and savory notes.
- In a large salad bowl, combine the mixed greens and chopped fresh herbs, gently tossing to create an even mixture.
- Drizzle the prepared agave lemon vinaigrette over the greens, using just enough to lightly coat the leaves without saturating them.
- Toss the salad gently to ensure even dressing distribution and to prevent bruising the delicate herbs and greens.
- Serve immediately to preserve the freshness and crisp texture of the salad.
Tips
- Choose Fresh Ingredients: The key to a delicious salad lies in the freshness of your ingredients. Opt for organic mixed greens and freshly picked herbs to maximize flavor.
- Herb Chopping Technique: When chopping your herbs, use a sharp knife and a gentle rocking motion to avoid bruising them, which helps retain their essential oils and flavors.
- Vinaigrette Whisking: For a perfectly emulsified vinaigrette, whisk the ingredients vigorously. If you have a jar with a lid, you can also shake the vinaigrette for a quick and easy mix.
- Taste as You Go: Don’t forget to taste your vinaigrette as you mix. Adjust the sweetness with more agave or the acidity with extra lemon juice until it suits your palate.
- Serve Immediately: To enjoy the crispness of the greens and the vibrant flavors of the herbs, serve the salad right after tossing it with the vinaigrette. If you need to prepare it ahead of time, keep the dressing separate until just before serving.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 120kcal
Carbohydrates: 10g
Protein: 2g
Fat: 9g
Saturated Fat: g
Cholesterol: 0mg
