Delicious Cheese Salad

This savory cheese salad is a delightful combination of fresh vegetables and flavorful cheese, perfect for a light meal or a refreshing side dish. Delight in the crunchy texture of fresh cucumber mixed with ripe tomatoes and aromatic onions. The salad is enhanced by a vibrant marinade made with vinegar, oil, and a hint of sugar, creating a perfect balance of flavors. With a touch of salt and pepper, this salad offers a simple yet delicious taste. Perfect for summer gatherings or as a refreshing addition to any meal, this cheese salad is easy to prepare and enjoy. Its versatility allows you to pair it with various main dishes or enjoy on its own. The addition of fresh dill provides a pleasant aromatic note, adding a bit of complexity to the dish. It's an excellent choice for those seeking a wholesome, vegetarian-friendly option.

Ingredients

Main Ingredients:

• 200 g cheese
• 100 g onion
• 1 fresh cucumber
• 2 tomatoes

Spices and Sauces:

• Salt, to taste
• Pepper, to taste
• Vinegar
• Oil
• Sugar
• Fresh dill (optional)

Preparation Time

• Total time: 20 minutes

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Start by preparing the vegetables. Slice the tomatoes into wedges for a vibrant and fresh bite.
2. Cut the onion into thin rings, which will add a slight pungency and a crisp texture.
3. Slice the cucumber into sticks. Cucumbers add a refreshing crunch to the salad.
4. Cut the cheese into sticks as well, complementing the cucumber in shape and providing a rich, savory element.
5. In a large bowl, combine all the chopped ingredients.
6. Now, prepare the marinade. In a small bowl, mix together vinegar and oil. The oil carries flavors while vinegar provides a tangy zest.
7. Add a pinch of salt for seasoning and a dash of pepper to the marinade for a bit of heat.
8. Stir in a sprinkle of sugar to balance the acidity of the vinegar.
9. If using dill, chop some fresh dill and add it to the marinade for an aromatic touch.
10. Mix the marinade thoroughly until all ingredients are well combined.
11. Pour the marinade over the bowl of salad ingredients.
12. Gently toss everything until the salad is evenly coated with the marinade.
13. Taste and adjust the seasoning if needed, adding more salt or pepper to your liking.
14. Allow the salad to sit for five minutes, letting the flavors meld.
15. While waiting, prepare any additional sides or dishes for serving.
16. After resting, give the salad one final toss.
17. Serve the salad fresh, ensuring that each portion gets a good mix of cheese and vegetables.
18. Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge, where it can stay fresh for up to two days.
19. Before serving again, give the salad a gentle stir.
20. Enjoy the delightful harmony of flavors in your cheese salad!

Nutrition

• Calories: 180
• Protein: 8 g
• Fats: 12 g
• Carbs: 10 g

Tips

• Use a different cheese like feta or goat cheese for a tangier flavor.
• Additions like sliced olives or bell peppers can enhance the salad.
• For a vegan version, replace cheese with a plant-based alternative.

Variations

• Low-fat option: Use low-fat cheese and reduce the oil in the marinade.
• Spicy twist: Add a pinch of chili flakes to the marinade.

Serving Suggestions

• Enjoy with freshly baked bread or savory crackers.
• Pair with a grilled protein, such as chicken or tofu, for a complete meal.

Best Places

1. Le Salad Bar - A chic spot specializing in fresh salads and homemade dressings. Location: 15 Rue des Rosiers, Paris, France.
2. The Salad Joint - Known for unique flavor combinations and high-quality ingredients. Location: 702 Fairfax Ave, Los Angeles, USA.
3. Salad Days - A health-focused café offering delightful salads and smoothies. Location: 30 Liverpool Rd, London, UK.
4. Fresh & Co - Serving up nutritious salads with farm-fresh ingredients. Location: 498 Fashion Ave, New York, USA.
5. Green Gourmet - A tranquil cafe with a fantastic salad bar. Location: C/ de Trafalgar, 41, Barcelona, Spain.
6. Veg Delight - Offers a vegan-friendly menu full of creative salads. Location: 20 Kapuzinergasse, Zurich, Switzerland.
7. Salad House - Famous for its large variety of salads and dressings. Location: 3 Xinyi Rd, Taipei City, Taiwan.
8. Lettuce & More - A cozy place to enjoy healthy, made-to-order salads. Location: 12 Reservoir St, Sydney, Australia.
9. The Green Bowl - Specializing in flavorful, plant-based salads. Location: 56 Jungmannova, Prague, Czech Republic.
10. Healthy Bite - Offers an extensive menu with fresh, seasonal salads. Location: 78 South Bridge, Edinburgh, UK.