Ingredients with Measurements:
- 4 cups mixed greens
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1/2 cup red onion, thinly sliced
- 1/2 cup cucumber, sliced
- 1/2 cup roasted red peppers, sliced
- 1/2 cup Stracchino cheese, crumbled
- 1/4 cup balsamic vinegar
- 1/4 cup extra-virgin olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
Special Equipment Needed:
- None
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, red onion, cucumber, and roasted red peppers.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together balsamic vinegar, extra-virgin olive oil, salt, and pepper.
3. Drizzle the dressing over the salad and toss to combine.
4. Sprinkle Stracchino cheese over the salad and serve.
- Time:
Preparation Time: 10 minutes
- Cooking Time: None
Temperature:
- None
Serving size:
- 4 servings
Nutritional information:
- Calories: 210
- Fat: 17g
- Carbohydrates: 9g
- Protein: 6g
- Fiber: 2g
Substitutions for ingredients:
- Mixed greens can be substituted with any salad greens of your choice.
- Cherry tomatoes can be substituted with grape tomatoes or diced tomatoes.
- Red onion can be substituted with white onion or shallots.
- Cucumber can be substituted with zucchini or celery.
- Roasted red peppers can be substituted with sun-dried tomatoes or fresh bell peppers.
- Stracchino cheese can be substituted with feta cheese or goat cheese.
Variations:
- Add grilled chicken or shrimp for a protein boost.
- Add sliced avocado for a creamy texture.
- Add sliced almonds or walnuts for a crunchy texture.
Tips and Tricks:
- To make the salad ahead of time, keep the dressing and cheese separate until ready to serve.
- Use a high-quality balsamic vinegar and extra-virgin olive oil for the best flavor.
- Crumble the Stracchino cheese with your fingers for a rustic look.
Storage Instructions:
- Store leftover salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
Reheating Instructions:
- None
Presentation Ideas:
- Serve the salad in a large bowl or on individual plates.
- Garnish with fresh herbs such as basil or parsley.
Garnishes:
- Fresh herbs such as basil or parsley.
Pairings:
- This salad pairs well with grilled meats or seafood.
Suggested Side Dishes:
- Garlic bread or a side of pasta.
Troubleshooting Advice:
- If the salad is too dry, add more dressing.
- If the salad is too salty, reduce the amount of salt in the dressing.
Food Safety Advice:
- Wash all produce thoroughly before using.
- Keep the salad refrigerated until ready to serve.
Food History:
- Stracchino cheese is a soft cheese from the Lombardy region of Italy.
Flavor Profiles:
- This salad has a tangy and slightly sweet flavor from the balsamic vinegar and roasted red peppers, balanced by the creamy and mild flavor of Stracchino cheese.
Serving Suggestions:
- Serve this salad as a light lunch or as a side dish with dinner.
Related Categories
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Region: Italian