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Summer Antioxidant Salad Recipe

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4.3 from 12 reviews

A vibrant and refreshing Summer Antioxidant Salad packed with fresh baby spinach, colorful vegetables, juicy fruits, and a crunchy mix of nuts and seeds, all tossed in a zesty lemon-balsamic dressing for a healthy, antioxidant-rich meal perfect for warm days.

Ingredients

Salad Ingredients

  • 3 cups baby spinach leaves
  • 4 radishes, sliced thinly
  • 3 spring onions (white and light green parts only), cut into thin strips
  • 1/2 orange capsicum, thinly sliced
  • 1/2 red capsicum, thinly sliced
  • 1/2 cucumber, thinly sliced
  • 10 cherry tomatoes, quartered
  • 10 strawberries, hulled and quartered
  • 1 slice fresh peach, skin removed and cut into pieces
  • 2 tablespoons chopped walnuts
  • 2 tablespoons pumpkin seeds
  • 2 tablespoons sunflower seeds
  • 2 tablespoons hemp seeds

Dressing Ingredients

  • 1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil
  • 2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar
  • 1 1/2 tablespoons walnut oil (optional)
  • Juice of 1 lemon
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

  1. Prepare Ingredients: Wash and slice all the fruits and vegetables as specified: thinly slice radishes, capsicums, cucumber, cut spring onions into thin strips, quarter the cherry tomatoes and strawberries, and peel and slice the peach.
  2. Arrange Salad: Layer the prepared baby spinach, vegetables, and fruits attractively on a large chopping board or serving plate to showcase the vibrant colors.
  3. Add Nuts and Seeds: Sprinkle chopped walnuts, pumpkin seeds, sunflower seeds, and hemp seeds evenly over the layered salad to add crunch and nutrition.
  4. Make Dressing: In a glass jar, combine the extra virgin olive oil, balsamic vinegar, walnut oil (if using), and lemon juice. Shake well to emulsify the dressing.
  5. Dress the Salad: Drizzle the prepared dressing evenly over the salad. Season with salt and pepper to taste, then gently toss if desired or serve layered with dressing on top.
  6. Serve: Serve immediately and enjoy the fresh and antioxidant-packed flavors of this summer salad.

Notes

  • Walnut oil is optional but adds a rich, nutty flavor to the dressing.
  • Use fresh, ripe seasonal fruits for best flavor and nutrition.
  • This salad is best enjoyed fresh; avoid preparing too far in advance to preserve texture and color.
  • Can be customized with other nuts or seeds according to preference.
  • For added protein, consider topping with grilled chicken or tofu if desired, though this will affect nutrition profile and category.