Ingredients with Measurements:
- 1 bunch of spotted cat's-ear leaves
- 1/2 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1/4 cup red onion, thinly sliced
- 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
- 2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil
- 1 tablespoon red wine vinegar
- Salt and pepper to taste
Special equipment needed:
- None
Step-by-step instructions:
1. Rinse the spotted cat's-ear leaves thoroughly and pat them dry with a clean kitchen towel.
2. Tear the leaves into bite-sized pieces and place them in a large mixing bowl.
3. Add the cherry tomatoes, red onion, feta cheese, and chopped parsley to the bowl.
4. In a separate small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, red wine vinegar, salt, and pepper.
5. Pour the dressing over the salad and toss gently to combine.
6. Serve immediately.
- Time:
Preparation time: 10 minutes
- Cooking time: 0 minutes
Temperature:
- Serve at room temperature.
Serving size:
- This recipe serves 2-4 people.
Nutritional information:
- Calories: 150 per serving
- Total fat: 12g
- Saturated fat: 3g
- Cholesterol: 11mg
- Sodium: 250mg
- Total carbohydrate: 7g
- Dietary fiber: 2g
- Sugars: 3g
- Protein: 4g
Substitutions for ingredients:
- Spotted cat's-ear leaves can be substituted with arugula or baby spinach.
- Cherry tomatoes can be substituted with grape tomatoes or diced Roma tomatoes.
- Red onion can be substituted with thinly sliced shallots or scallions.
- Feta cheese can be substituted with crumbled goat cheese or blue cheese.
- Fresh parsley can be substituted with fresh basil or cilantro.
Variations:
- Add sliced cucumbers or diced avocado for extra texture and flavor.
- Top the salad with grilled chicken or shrimp for a protein boost.
- Add a handful of toasted nuts or seeds for crunch.
- Drizzle the salad with balsamic glaze or honey mustard dressing for a different flavor profile.
Tips and tricks:
- To make the salad ahead of time, prepare the ingredients and dressing separately and store them in the refrigerator. Toss the salad just before serving.
- Use a mandoline or sharp knife to thinly slice the red onion for a more delicate flavor.
- Crumble the feta cheese with your fingers for a rustic look.
- Taste the dressing before adding it to the salad and adjust the seasoning as needed.
Storage instructions:
- Store leftover salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
Reheating instructions:
- This salad is best served cold and does not need to be reheated.
Presentation ideas:
- Serve the salad in a large wooden bowl or on individual plates.
- Garnish the salad with a sprig of fresh parsley or a few cherry tomato halves.
Garnishes:
- Fresh parsley
- Cherry tomato halves
Pairings:
- This salad pairs well with grilled chicken or fish.
- Serve with a glass of white wine or sparkling water.
Suggested side dishes:
- Garlic bread
- Roasted vegetables
- Quinoa salad
Troubleshooting advice:
- If the salad is too dry, add more dressing or a drizzle of olive oil.
- If the salad is too salty, reduce the amount of feta cheese or omit the salt from the dressing.
Food safety advice:
- Wash your hands and all produce thoroughly before preparing the salad.
- Store leftover salad in the refrigerator and discard any leftovers that have been sitting at room temperature for more than 2 hours.
Food history:
- Spotted cat's-ear is a type of wild edible plant that grows in many parts of the world. It has a slightly bitter taste and is often used in salads and other dishes.
Flavor profiles:
- This salad has a fresh and tangy flavor, with notes of bitterness from the spotted cat's-ear leaves and saltiness from the feta cheese.
Serving suggestions:
- Serve this salad as a light lunch or a side dish with your favorite main course.
Related Categories
Cooking Method: N/A
Course Type: N/A
Dietary: N/A
Ingredient: N/A
Meal type: N/A
Occassion: N/A
Region: N/A