Tossed Salad With Almonds Recipe

A burst of color with a crunch, the Tossed Salad with Almonds is a vibrant and refreshing dish to serve on any occasion. Its simplicity is its highlight, with contrasting textures and flavors from fresh vegetables and crunchy almonds. The dressing, a blend of olive oil, vinegar, and honey, ties everything together, creating a balance between each element of the salad.

Photos of Tossed Salad With Almonds Recipe

All the ingredients of this recipe are common and easily available in supermarkets. However, be selective while choosing your almonds, as they are a key ingredient in this salad. Opt for raw or lightly toasted almonds for the best flavor. If you like, you could also experiment with different varieties of lettuce and mixed vegetables for an added burst of color and taste.

Ingredients for the Tossed Salad with Almonds

Lettuce: A base for any salad, it is rich in vitamins and provides a nice crunch.

Cucumber: Adds a refreshing flavor and a juicy crunch.

Tomatoes: Provides sweetness and acidity to the salad.

Mixed vegetables: Adds color, flavor and additional nutrients to the salad.

Almonds: Provides a healthy crunch and enhances the overall flavor.

Olive oil: Used in the dressing, it gives a smooth and rich flavor.

Vinegar: Adds a tangy flavor to the dressing.

Honey: Balances the acidity of the vinegar in the dressing.

Seasoned salt & pepper: They are used to enhance the flavor of the salad and the dressing.

One reader, Carlyle Brannan says:

This tossed salad with almonds recipe is a game-changer! The combination of fresh veggies and crunchy almonds, paired with the tangy dressing, is simply delightful. It's a healthy and satisfying dish that's perfect for any occasion. I highly recommend trying it out!

Carlyle Brannan

Techniques Required for Tossed Salad with Almonds Recipe

How to prepare the salad: Wash and dry the lettuce, cucumber, and tomatoes. Chop the lettuce, dice the cucumber, and cut the tomatoes into wedges.

How to make the dressing: In a small bowl, combine the olive oil, vinegar, honey, and seasoned salt & pepper. Whisk until well mixed.

How to toast almonds: Place the almonds in a dry skillet over medium heat. Stir occasionally until the almonds are golden and fragrant, about 5-7 minutes. Be careful not to burn them.

How to toss the salad: In a large bowl, combine the prepared salad ingredients. Drizzle the dressing over the salad and toss gently to coat. Serve immediately.

How To Make Tossed Salad With Almond

Filled with healthy and fresh ingredients, this tossed salad recipe is a great meal for breakfast made with fresh veggies and tossed in a creamy dressing.

Preparation: 15 minutes

Cooking:

Total: 15 minutes

Serves:

Ingredients

8cupslettuce
1cupcucumber
1cuptomatoes
1cupmixed vegetables ,radish, shredded carrot, purple cabbage
2tbspalmonds ,or sunflower seeds, toasted

For the dressing:

¼cupolive oil
2tbspvinegar ,cider, balsamic, or white
1tsphoney
seasoned salt & pepper,to taste

Instructions

Place all salad ingredients in a large bowl.
Place dressing ingredients in a small bowl and whisk until well mixed.
Toss salad with dressing to taste and serve immediately.

Nutrition

Calories: 1986.90kcal
Fat: 218.68g
Saturated Fat: 30.07g
Trans Fat: 0.00g
Monounsaturated Fat: 159.03g
Polyunsaturated Fat: 23.50g
Carbohydrates: 11.04g
Fiber: 3.57g
Sugar: 5.08g
Protein: 3.99g
Sodium: 1031.78mg
Calcium: 72.70mg
Potassium: 543.06mg
Iron: 3.36mg
Vitamin A: 437.12µg
Vitamin C: 11.95mg

Helpful Technique Tip for Tossed Salad with Almonds Recipe

Toasting the almonds before adding them to the salad can enhance their flavor and add a delightful crunch. Simply heat a dry skillet over medium heat, add the almonds, and cook, stirring frequently, until they're golden and fragrant. Be sure to let them cool before tossing them into the salad.

Time-Saving Tips for Making This Salad Recipe

Prep ahead: Chop and wash your vegetables in advance to save time when assembling the salad.

Use pre-cut vegetables: Consider using pre-cut vegetables to reduce prep time.

Multi-task: While the almonds are toasting, prepare the dressing to save time.

Invest in a salad spinner: A salad spinner can help you quickly wash and dry the lettuce, saving time and effort.

Organize your ingredients: Before you start, gather all your ingredients and tools to streamline the cooking process.

Keep it simple: Stick to basic ingredients and simple techniques to minimize prep and cooking time.

Substitute Ingredients For Tossed Salad With Almonds Recipe

lettuce - Substitute with spinach: Spinach can provide a similar texture and flavor to lettuce, while also adding extra nutrients such as iron and vitamins.
cucumber - Substitute with zucchini: Zucchini can offer a similar refreshing crunch and mild flavor to cucumbers, making it a suitable substitute in the salad.
tomatoes - Substitute with bell peppers: Bell peppers can provide a similar juicy and sweet crunch to tomatoes, adding a pop of color and flavor to the salad.
mixed vegetables - Substitute with shredded carrots and red cabbage: Shredded carrots and red cabbage can add a colorful and crunchy element to the salad, similar to mixed vegetables.
almonds - Substitute with walnuts: Walnuts can provide a similar nutty crunch and richness to the salad, offering a delicious alternative to almonds.
olive oil - Substitute with avocado oil: Avocado oil can offer a similar richness and flavor to olive oil, while also providing additional health benefits.
vinegar - Substitute with lemon juice: Lemon juice can provide a similar tangy acidity to vinegar, adding a refreshing citrusy flavor to the dressing.
honey - Substitute with maple syrup: Maple syrup can offer a similar sweetness and depth of flavor to honey, providing a delicious alternative in the dressing.
seasoned salt & pepper - Substitute with herb-infused salt and freshly ground black pepper: Herb-infused salt and freshly ground black pepper can provide a similar seasoning to the salad, enhancing the flavors with a touch of herbaceousness.

Presenting Your Tossed Salad with Almonds

Elevate the salad with precision: Arrange the lettuce, cucumber, tomatoes, and mixed vegetables with meticulous attention to detail, ensuring each ingredient is showcased beautifully.
Garnish with toasted almonds: Sprinkle the almonds over the salad, adding a delightful crunch and nutty flavor to each bite.
Drizzle with the honey vinaigrette: Artfully drizzle the honey vinaigrette over the salad, ensuring each leaf is lightly coated with the luscious dressing.
Emphasize color and texture: Create a visually stunning plate by incorporating vibrant colors and varied textures, making the salad visually appealing and enticing.
Use high-quality serving ware: Present the salad in elegant serving bowls or on chic plates to enhance the overall dining experience.
Add a touch of edible flowers: Introduce a pop of color and delicate floral notes by incorporating edible flowers as a sophisticated garnish.
Incorporate microgreens: Sprinkle the salad with delicate microgreens to add a burst of fresh flavor and a touch of elegance to the dish.

Essential Tools for Making a Delicious Tossed Salad

Cutting board: A flat surface used for cutting and preparing ingredients.
Chef's knife: A versatile knife used for chopping, slicing, and dicing ingredients.
Mixing bowl: Used for combining and tossing salad ingredients.
Whisk: Used for mixing and emulsifying the salad dressing.
Salad bowl: A large bowl for serving the tossed salad.
Measuring cups and spoons: For accurately measuring the ingredients for the salad and dressing.
Salad spinner: Used to wash and dry the lettuce and vegetables.
Vegetable peeler: For peeling and preparing the vegetables.
Cutting knife: Used for slicing and preparing the vegetables.
Small bowl: For mixing and serving the salad dressing.

Storing and Freezing Your Tossed Salad with Almonds

To store leftover tossed salad, place it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2-3 days. However, keep in mind that the lettuce and other vegetables may wilt and become soggy over time, affecting the overall texture and quality of the salad.
It's best to store the dressing separately from the salad ingredients. Keep the olive oil and vinegar mixture in a separate airtight container in the refrigerator. This will prevent the salad from becoming too soggy and will allow you to dress the salad right before serving.
If you want to prepare the salad in advance, you can wash and chop the lettuce, cucumber, tomatoes, and other vegetables and store them separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 2-3 days. Wait to mix them together until you're ready to serve the salad.
Unfortunately, tossed salad with almonds does not freeze well. The lettuce and other vegetables will become mushy and lose their crisp texture when thawed. The almonds may also lose their crunch and become soft.
If you have any leftover almonds, you can store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 month or in the refrigerator for up to 2 months. This will help maintain their freshness and crunch.

Interesting Fact About Tossed Salad with Almonds

Almonds are a great addition to salads as they provide a crunchy texture and a nutty flavor, while also adding a dose of healthy fats and protein to the dish.

Is Making Tossed Salad with Almonds Economical?

The cost-effectiveness of this tossed salad with almonds recipe is quite high. The ingredients are mostly affordable and readily available, making it a budget-friendly option for households. The use of fresh vegetables and almonds provides essential nutrients, making it a healthy and economical choice. The approximate cost for a household of 4 people would be around $10-$15, depending on the availability and pricing of the ingredients. Overall Verdict: 9/10

Is This Salad Recipe Healthy or Unhealthy?

The tossed salad with almonds recipe is a healthy choice overall. Here's why:

It's packed with nutrient-rich ingredients like lettuce, cucumber, tomatoes, and mixed vegetables, providing a variety of vitamins, minerals, and fiber.
Almonds add a boost of healthy fats, protein, and vitamin E.
The dressing uses olive oil, which is a heart-healthy monounsaturated fat, and honey for a touch of natural sweetness.
Vinegar adds tang and may help regulate blood sugar levels.

However, there are a few areas where the recipe could be improved:

The amount of olive oil could be reduced to lower the calorie content.
The type of lettuce isn't specified; choosing darker greens like spinach or kale would increase the nutrient density.
The mixed vegetables are not defined, so it's hard to gauge their nutritional value.

To make this salad even healthier, consider the following suggestions:

Swap out half of the olive oil for lemon juice to cut calories while maintaining flavor.
Use a mix of dark, leafy greens like spinach, arugula, and baby kale for added nutrients and variety.
Specify the mixed vegetables, aiming for a colorful assortment like bell peppers, carrots, and red onions.
Add a source of lean protein, such as grilled chicken or chickpeas, to make the salad more satiating.
Experiment with different nuts and seeds, like walnuts or pumpkin seeds, for added crunch and nutrition.
Use fresh herbs like basil or parsley to elevate the flavor without adding calories.

Editor's Opinion on This Delightful Salad Recipe

This tossed salad with almonds recipe is a delightful combination of fresh, crunchy vegetables and the nutty flavor of almonds. The dressing, with its blend of olive oil, vinegar, and honey, adds a perfect balance of tanginess and sweetness. The seasoned salt and pepper bring out the natural flavors of the ingredients. It's a simple yet elegant dish that's perfect for any occasion. The almonds add a satisfying crunch and a boost of protein, making this salad not only delicious but also nutritious. It's a versatile recipe that can be enjoyed as a side dish or a light meal on its own.

Enhance Your Tossed Salad With Almonds Recipe with These Unique Side Dishes:

Garlic Parmesan Roasted Asparagus: Tender asparagus spears roasted to perfection with a savory garlic parmesan topping.

Grilled Lemon Herb Chicken: Juicy, flavorful chicken marinated in a zesty lemon herb marinade and grilled to perfection.

Fresh Fruit Salad with Citrus Dressing: A refreshing mix of seasonal fruits tossed in a tangy citrus dressing for a burst of flavor.

Creamy Tomato Basil Soup: A velvety smooth soup made with ripe tomatoes and fresh basil for a comforting and satisfying meal.

Decadent Chocolate Mousse: Indulgent and rich chocolate mousse topped with a dollop of whipped cream for a sweet ending to your meal.

Similar Recipes to Tossed Salad with Almonds

Grilled Vegetable Skewers: Use a variety of colorful vegetables and marinate them in a zesty herb dressing before grilling to perfection.

Braised Beef Stew: Slow-cook tender beef with a medley of root vegetables and savory herbs for a comforting and hearty stew.

Mango Coconut Popsicles: Blend fresh mango with creamy coconut milk and a hint of honey, then freeze into refreshing popsicles for a tropical treat.

Appetizers and Desserts to Complement Tossed Salad with Almonds

Appetizers:

Stuffed Mushrooms: Savory and indulgent, these stuffed mushrooms are the perfect way to start your meal. Filled with a rich and creamy mixture, each bite is bursting with flavor and texture. The combination of earthy mushrooms and decadent filling is sure to impress your guests.

Bruschetta: Fresh and vibrant, bruschetta is a classic appetizer that never fails to please. The crisp toast is topped with a colorful mixture of tomatoes, basil, and garlic, creating a burst of flavor in every bite. It's a simple yet elegant way to kick off your meal.

Desserts:

Chocolate Mousse: Indulge in a rich and creamy chocolate mousse, topped with a dollop of whipped cream and a sprinkle of cocoa powder. The smooth texture and decadent flavor will satisfy any sweet tooth.

Berry Parfait: Layered with fresh berries, creamy yogurt, and crunchy granola, this berry parfait is a delightful combination of sweet and tangy flavors. It's a light and refreshing dessert option for any occasion.

Why trust this Tossed Salad With Almonds Recipe:

This recipe uses fresh and wholesome ingredients, ensuring a healthy and delicious salad. The combination of lettuce, cucumber, tomatoes, and mixed vegetables provides a variety of textures and flavors. The addition of almonds brings a satisfying crunch and nuttiness. The dressing, made with olive oil, vinegar, and a touch of honey, enhances the overall taste without overpowering the natural flavors of the salad. The use of seasoned salt and pepper adds a perfect balance of seasoning. Trust this recipe for a refreshing and nutritious salad experience.

Share your thoughts on the Tossed Salad With Almonds Recipe in the Recipe Sharing forum and let us know if you have any tips or variations to enhance this delicious and healthy dish.

FAQ:

Can I use a different type of lettuce for this salad?

Yes, you can use any type of lettuce you prefer. I recommend using a mix of different lettuces for added flavor and texture.

Can I substitute the almonds with a different type of nut?

Absolutely! You can use any type of nut you like such as walnuts, pecans, or even sunflower seeds for a nut-free option.

How long can I store the salad dressing for?

The salad dressing can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week. Just give it a good shake before using it again.

Can I add grilled chicken or tofu to make it a complete meal?

Of course! Adding grilled chicken, tofu, or any protein of your choice will make this salad a satisfying and complete meal.

Is there a way to make the dressing sweeter without using honey?

Yes, you can use maple syrup or agave nectar as a substitute for honey to sweeten the dressing. Adjust the amount to your taste preference.