Dandelion Greens Salad with Lemon Dressing
Description:
This vibrant and nutrient-dense salad is a springtime favorite, celebrating the peppery bite of fresh dandelion greens. Paired with a bright, zesty lemon dressing, it balances bitterness with freshness and crunch. Ideal as a detox salad, a side dish, or even a light main course when topped with a protein.
Ingredients:
For the Salad:
1 large bunch of dandelion greens (about 6 cups, chopped)
1/2 small red onion, thinly sliced
1/2 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
1/4 cup toasted walnuts or almonds
1/4 cup shaved Parmesan (optional)
1/2 cup cucumber, thinly sliced (optional)
Salt and pepper to taste
For the Lemon Dressing:
1/4 cup fresh lemon juice (about 2 lemons)
1/3 cup extra virgin olive oil
1 tsp Dijon mustard
1 clove garlic, minced
1/2 tsp honey or maple syrup (optional for balance)
Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Prepare the Dandelion Greens:
Rinse dandelion greens thoroughly in cold water to remove any dirt.
Trim off any thick stems.
Chop roughly into bite-sized pieces and pat dry or spin in a salad spinner.
2. Make the Lemon Dressing:
In a small bowl or jar, combine lemon juice, olive oil, mustard, garlic, and honey (if using).
Whisk or shake well until emulsified.
Season with salt and pepper to taste.
3. Assemble the Salad:
In a large mixing bowl, add chopped dandelion greens, sliced onion, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, and nuts.
Drizzle with the dressing and toss gently to coat all ingredients evenly.
Top with shaved Parmesan if desired.
4. Serve:
Serve immediately for a crisp texture, or let sit for 5–10 minutes to soften the greens slightly if you prefer a milder bitterness.
Preparation and Cooking Time:
Prep time: 15 minutes
Cook time: 0 minutes
Total time: 15 minutes
Servings: 4
Nutritional Information (Per Serving):
Nutrient Amount (approximate)
Calories 180–210 kcal
Protein 3–5 g
Carbohydrates 8–10 g
Dietary Fiber 3–4 g
Sugars 2–3 g
Fat 16–18 g
Saturated Fat 2–3 g
Vitamin A 110% DV
Vitamin C 40% DV
Calcium 15% DV
Iron 20% DV
DV = Daily Value, based on a 2,000 calorie diet.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ):
Q1: What do dandelion greens taste like?
A: They have a peppery, slightly bitter taste similar to arugula or chicory.
Q2: Can I make this salad in advance?
A: Yes, but keep the dressing separate until just before serving to preserve the greens’ texture.
Q3: Are dandelion greens healthy?
A: Extremely. They’re rich in vitamins A, C, and K, calcium, iron, and antioxidants, and they aid digestion.
Q4: Can I use store-bought greens instead of foraged ones?
A: Absolutely. Many health food stores and farmers’ markets carry dandelion greens.
Q5: What can I add to make it a complete meal?
A: Add grilled chicken, boiled eggs, chickpeas, or quinoa for added
protein and satiety.