Summer Salad New Recipe

Wash & dry

Rinse mixed greens, cucumber, tomatoes, bell pepper, and herbs under cold water. Spin or pat dry thoroughly so the dressing adheres and the salad doesn't get soggy.

Cut the English cucumber into thin rounds or half-moons to total about 1 cup. Halve the cherry tomatoes. Thinly slice the bell pepper. If using fresh corn, cook briefly (boil or grill 3–5 minutes), cool slightly and cut kernels from the cob to measure 1/2 cup.

If using grilled chicken, slice cooked chicken breast thinly to make 1 cup. Dice the avocado just before assembly and set aside to avoid browning.

In a small bowl or jar combine 3 tbsp fresh lemon juice, 1 tbsp honey, 1 tsp Dijon mustard, and 1 tsp white wine vinegar. Whisk or shake until honey dissolves.

Slowly whisk in 6 tbsp extra-virgin olive oil until the dressing emulsifies and thickens slightly.

Season to taste with 3/4 tsp fine salt and 1/4 tsp freshly ground black pepper. (The ingredient list is scaled for 3 tsp salt and 1/2 tsp pepper; adjust down if you prefer less sodium.) Add lemon zest if using. Taste and adjust sweet/sour/salt: more honey for sweetness or more lemon for brightness.

Place 6 cups of mixed baby greens in a large salad bowl. Add the sliced cucumber, halved cherry tomatoes, sliced bell pepper, corn kernels and most of the diced avocado (reserve a little for garnish).

Sprinkle the crumbled feta (about 1/2 cup) and the sliced grilled chicken over the salad if using protein.

Drizzle about 3–4 tablespoons of the vinaigrette over the salad (you may not need all the dressing). Toss gently with salad tongs to coat the greens and vegetables evenly. Taste and add more dressing if needed.

Scatter the toasted nuts (1/4 cup), torn mint leaves (2 tbsp) and chiffonade basil (1/4 cup) over the top. Add the remaining avocado pieces.

Finish with a light drizzle of extra-virgin olive oil (1 tbsp) and a small sprinkle of lemon zest if desired. Season with additional salt and freshly ground pepper to taste.

Serve immediately so the avocado and greens remain bright and fresh.