Krasainie Griku Salati - Colorful Buckwheat Salad

This vibrant and nutritious buckwheat salad is a delightful blend of flavors and textures, perfect for a light meal or side dish. Featuring the earthy taste of buckwheat, it is complemented by the fresh crispness of broccoli and the sweetness of bell peppers. The olives and red onions add a savory depth, while the walnuts provide a crunchy contrast. The tangy dressing, made with olive oil, white wine vinegar, agave syrup, and lime juice, ties all the elements together beautifully. This dish is incredibly versatile, allowing you to serve it warm or cold, making it suitable for any season. It's quick to prepare, requiring just a handful of ingredients, yet it's packed with essential nutrients. Ideal for vegetarians and gluten-free diets, this salad is a fantastic choice for a wholesome lunch or dinner. Garnish with your favorite herbs and enjoy a burst of flavors in every bite!

Ingredients

Main Ingredients:

• 1 cup cooked buckwheat
• 1 cup broccoli, cut into florets
• 1 bell pepper, sliced
• 10 black olives, sliced
• 1 small red onion, diced
• 1 tablespoon oil (for sautéing)
• Salt, to taste
• Walnuts, chopped, for serving

Dressing:

• 1 tablespoon white wine vinegar
• 1 teaspoon agave syrup
• 3 tablespoons olive oil
• Juice of 1 lime

Preparation Time

• Total Time: 25 minutes

Step-by-Step Instruction

1. Start by preparing the salad dressing. In a small bowl, combine the white wine vinegar, agave syrup, olive oil, and freshly squeezed lime juice. Whisk together until well emulsified and set aside.
2. Bring a pot of lightly salted water to a boil. Add the broccoli florets and cook for about 3-4 minutes, ensuring they remain tender yet firm. Remove and place them in a bowl of ice water to stop the cooking process. Drain well.
3. In a small pan, heat a tablespoon of oil over medium heat. Add the sliced bell pepper and sauté for about 2-3 minutes until they are slightly softened yet maintain some crunch.
4. In a large mixing bowl, combine the sautéed bell pepper and blanched broccoli.
5. Add the cooked buckwheat to the bowl. It's perfectly fine to use buckwheat cooked in advance or prepare it fresh while assembling the salad.
6. Toss in the diced red onion and sliced black olives.
7. Pour the prepared dressing over the salad mixture.
8. Gently toss everything using a large spoon or your hands to ensure even distribution of the dressing.
9. Taste and adjust the salt if necessary.
10. Transfer the salad to a serving platter or individual plates.
11. Sprinkle the chopped walnuts over the top for added texture and flavor.
12. Finish by garnishing with fresh herbs, such as parsley or cilantro, if desired.
13. Serve immediately for a warm salad or refrigerate for an hour if you prefer it chilled.
14. Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
15. This dish is best consumed fresh, but it can still be quite delicious the next day.
16. For added variety, consider adding cherry tomatoes or cucumber slices when serving.
17. For a bit of spice, a sprinkle of chili flakes or a dash of hot sauce can elevate the flavors.
18. Enjoy the beautiful colors and delightful taste of this wholesome salad!
19. This salad pairs excellently with grilled chicken or fish for a complete meal.
20. Remember to serve with a side of crusty bread to soak up any leftover dressing.

Tips

• Substitute: If you don’t have agave syrup, honey or maple syrup works well.
• Crunch Factor: Add more nuts, like almonds or pine nuts, for added crunch.
• Dressing: A pinch of mustard in the dressing can give it an extra zing.

Nutritions

• Calories: 250 per serving
• Protein: 8g
• Fats: 12g
• Carbs: 30g

Variations

• For a vegan version, ensure all ingredients are plant-based.
• Add grilled chicken or shrimp for a protein boost.

Serving Suggestions

• Pair with a light soup for a complete meal.
• Serve alongside a refreshing drink, such as iced tea or lemonade.

Best Places

• The Greenhouse Café - Offers a delightful twist on traditional salads with fresh ingredients. Location: 123 Garden Road, New York, USA.
• Cafe Flora - Known for its creative vegetarian dishes and inviting atmosphere. Location: 2901 E Madison St, Seattle, USA.
• Salad Club - Famous for its diverse salad bar and unique salad combinations. Location: 45 Market St, San Francisco, USA.
• Veggie Grill - A casual dining place offering various plant-based dishes. Location: 2025 Wilshire Blvd, Los Angeles, USA.
• Herbivores Haven - A cozy space with a focus on nutritious salads and organic food. Location: 567 Green St, London, UK.
• The Nourish Café - Offers an array of healthy and delicious plant-based meals. Location: 16 Wellness Avenue, Toronto, Canada.
• Salad Stories - A chic eatery providing colorful and flavorful salad options. Location: 3 Banganapalli Lane, Sydney, Australia.
• Green Bowl Café - Specializes in fresh salads and health-focused meals. Location: 152 Avocado Rd, Auckland, New Zealand.
• Leaf and Loaf - A bistro focusing on healthy, whole-food meals. Location: 88 Maple Lane, Vancouver, Canada.
• Roots & Shoots - Known for its sustainable and organic menu. Location: 9 Clover Rd, Dublin, Ireland.