Description
A fresh and vibrant spring mix salad featuring marinated red onions, creamy avocado, heirloom tomatoes, toasted gluten-free panko breadcrumbs or pecans, and a tangy lemon-garlic dressing. This salad is easy to prepare in just 13 minutes and perfect for a light, healthy meal or side dish.
Ingredients
Scale
Salad Ingredients
- 1/2 red onion, sliced thin
- 2 boxes Little Leaf spring mix salad blend
- 1/4 teaspoon fine sea salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 avocado, sliced
- 2 large heirloom tomatoes, sliced
- 1/3 cup freshly grated parmesan cheese (more as desired)
- 1/3 cup gluten-free panko breadcrumbs or finely ground pecans, toasted
Dressing Ingredients
- 1/3 cup extra virgin olive oil
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice
- 1/2 garlic clove, grated
- 1/2 teaspoon fine sea salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon dried oregano
Instructions
- Marinate the Onions & Make Dressing: Slice the red onion into thin rings and place them in the bottom of a mason jar, container, or bowl. Add the olive oil, lemon juice, grated garlic, salt, black pepper, and oregano. Toss well to combine. Cover and set aside until you are ready to assemble the salad, allowing the onions to soften and infuse the dressing with flavor.
- Toast the Breadcrumbs: Heat a small skillet over medium heat. Add the gluten-free panko breadcrumbs or finely ground pecans and toast for 2-3 minutes, stirring often, until golden brown and fragrant. Remove from heat and let them cool.
- Assemble the Salad: Place the spring mix salad blend into a large bowl or serving dish. Season the greens with fine sea salt and black pepper to taste.
- Add Toppings: Arrange the sliced avocado and heirloom tomatoes attractively on top of the greens. Using a fork, add the marinated red onions on top, reserving any extra dressing for the next step.
- Add Cheese and Crunch: Evenly sprinkle freshly grated parmesan cheese and the toasted breadcrumbs or pecans over the salad to add flavor and texture.
- Dress & Serve: Drizzle the reserved lemon-onion dressing evenly over the salad just before serving. Toss gently if desired and serve immediately to enjoy peak freshness.
Notes
- You can substitute gluten-free panko breadcrumbs with finely ground pecans for a gluten-free and nutty alternative.
- Adjust the amount of parmesan cheese to your preference for more or less richness.
- For a vegan version, omit parmesan cheese or substitute with a plant-based cheese alternative.
- Toast breadcrumbs or pecans carefully as they can burn quickly; stir constantly during toasting.
- The salad dressing doubles as a marinade for the onions, making the onions softer and flavorful.
- Serve immediately after dressing to prevent the greens from wilting.
