Save A vibrant festive salad featuring colorful vegetable ribbons, crunchy pistachios, and sweet-tart cranberries, layered for an impressive presentation and delightful textures.
This salad quickly became a favorite at family gatherings for its vibrant look and fresh flavors.
Ingredients
- Vegetables: 2 medium carrots peeled, 1 medium cucumber ends trimmed, 1 medium zucchini ends trimmed, 1 small yellow squash ends trimmed, 1 cup baby spinach leaves washed and dried
- Dressing: 3 tbsp extra-virgin olive oil, 2 tbsp fresh lemon juice, 1 tsp honey or maple syrup, 1 tsp Dijon mustard, Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
- Toppings: 1/3 cup shelled pistachios roughly chopped, 1/3 cup dried cranberries, 2 oz about 60 g crumbled feta cheese optional, 2 tbsp fresh mint leaves finely sliced
Instructions
- Step 1:
- Using a vegetable peeler or mandoline slice carrots cucumber zucchini and yellow squash lengthwise into thin ribbons.
- Step 2:
- Layer the vegetable ribbons and baby spinach attractively in a wide clear serving bowl or on a platter alternating colors for a ribbon effect.
- Step 3:
- In a small bowl whisk together olive oil lemon juice honey Dijon mustard salt and pepper until emulsified.
- Step 4:
- Drizzle the dressing evenly over the layered vegetables.
- Step 5:
- Sprinkle chopped pistachios dried cranberries feta cheese if using and mint over the salad.
- Step 6:
- Serve immediately for best texture.
Save This salad often sparks joy as we gather to enjoy a healthy snack with loved ones.
Required Tools
Vegetable peeler or mandoline sharp knife cutting board small mixing bowl whisk
Allergen Information
Contains nuts pistachios and dairy feta cheese optional Ensure nuts and cheese are processed in allergen-safe facilities if required Double-check all ingredient labels for gluten or other allergens as needed
Nutritional Information
Calories 240 Total Fat 15 g Carbohydrates 22 g Protein 6 g per serving with feta
Save Enhance this salad by adjusting toppings to suit your taste and enjoy a refreshing dish all year round.
Common Questions
- → What is the best way to create vegetable ribbons?
Use a vegetable peeler or mandoline to slice carrots, cucumber, zucchini, and squash lengthwise into thin, uniform ribbons for an appealing layered effect.
- → Can I make this dish vegan?
Yes, simply omit the feta cheese or replace it with a plant-based alternative to keep the dish vegan.
- → How should I store leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator and consume within 1-2 days to maintain freshness and texture.
- → What are good substitutions for pistachios?
Walnuts or pecans can be used as alternatives to pistachios, providing similar crunch and flavor depth.
- → Which beverages pair well with this layered salad?
A crisp Sauvignon Blanc or sparkling water with lemon complements the fresh and tangy flavors beautifully.