Ba Salad Recipe

Wash and dry all greens thoroughly. In a large salad bowl, combine the mixed salad greens, chopped romaine and shredded iceberg. Gently toss to mix and set aside in the refrigerator while you prepare the other components so the greens remain crisp.

Halve the cherry tomatoes and add them to a medium bowl. Seed and thinly slice the cucumber and add to the bowl. Thinly slice the red onion and, if desired, soak in cold water for 5 minutes to soften the sharpness, then drain. Julienne or shred the carrot, dice the avocado and thinly slice the radishes. Combine all prepared vegetables in the bowl and toss gently so the avocado doesn't mash.

Toast the slivered almonds and pepitas in a dry skillet over medium heat, stirring frequently, until fragrant and lightly browned (2–4 minutes). Remove from heat and let cool. If using packaged crispy shallots or fried onions, have them ready to sprinkle on just before serving.

If using, crumble the feta or goat cheese. If adding protein, slice the cooked chicken breast into thin strips or bite-sized pieces. Keep refrigerated until assembly.

Make the dressing

In a small bowl or jar, combine the lemon juice, Dijon mustard, honey (or maple), minced garlic, salt and pepper. Whisk briefly, then slowly drizzle in the extra-virgin olive oil while whisking (or shake vigorously in a lidded jar) until the dressing emulsifies and thickens slightly. Taste and adjust seasoning—add more salt, pepper or lemon as desired.

Remove the greens from the refrigerator. Add the prepared vegetables and gently toss to distribute. Drizzle about half of the dressing over the salad and toss lightly to coat; add more dressing to taste. Scatter the toasted almonds, pepitas and crispy shallots on top. Sprinkle the crumbled cheese and arrange sliced chicken if using. Finish with a light grind of black pepper.

Serve immediately on chilled plates so the greens stay crisp. Leftover dressing can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 5 days; assembled salad should be eaten the same day for best texture.