Fresh Vegetable Salad with Croutons

This vibrant and refreshing vegetable salad with croutons is the perfect combination of crunch and zest, ideal for a light lunch or a healthy side dish. Packed with fresh cucumbers, sweet corn, cherry tomatoes, and bell peppers, it offers a delightful burst of flavors in every bite. The addition of red onions is optional, catering to those who prefer a bit of pungency in their salads. What makes this salad versatile and unique is the ability to choose between two dressings: a tangy balsamic with olive oil or a creamy plain yogurt dressing. Quick to prepare, this salad brings together health and taste in just 15 minutes. Serve it alongside grilled meats or as an accompaniment to your main course. It's perfect for picnics, potlucks, or a simple family meal. Not to forget, the crispy croutons add a lovely textural contrast, making every mouthful a delightful experience. Best of all, you can easily adapt the ingredients based on seasonal availability or personal preference.

Ingredients

Main Ingredients

1 Cucumber: diced
1 cup Sweet Corn
1 cup Cherry Tomatoes: halved
1 Bell Pepper: diced
1 Red Onion: sliced (optional)
1 cup Croutons

For Dressing Option 1

2 tablespoons Balsamic Vinegar
2 tablespoons Olive Oil

For Dressing Option 2

3 tablespoons Plain Yogurt
Salt to taste

Preparation Time

Total Time: 15 minutes (including preparation and assembly)

Step-by-Step Instructions

Prepare the Croutons: Toast slices of white bread in a toaster until golden, then cool and cut into cubes or use ready-made croutons for convenience.
Cut the Vegetables: Dice the cucumber and bell pepper into small, even pieces for uniformity. Halve the cherry tomatoes to retain their juices while still offering a good bite.
Optional Addition: If including, thinly slice the red onion to add a slight sharpness that complements the sweet and fresh vegetables.
Combine Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, toss together the diced cucumber, corn, cherry tomatoes, bell pepper, and optional onions, ensuring even distribution.
Add Corn: Sprinkle sweet corn over the mixed vegetables, adding bursts of sweetness throughout.
Choose Your Dressing: Decide between a balsamic-olive oil blend for a tangy touch or a yogurt-based dressing for creaminess.
Prepare Dressing Option 1: Mix balsamic vinegar and olive oil until well combined. Season with salt to taste.
Prepare Dressing Option 2: Stir plain yogurt until smooth, adding a pinch of salt for flavor enhancement.
Dress the Salad: Drizzle your chosen dressing over the salad. For Option 1, pour the balsamic mixture over; for Option 2, mix yogurt dressing until the veggies are lightly coated.
Toss Slowly: Gently toss the salad to coat the vegetables evenly with the dressing, making sure not to bruise them.
Incorporate Croutons: Just before serving, mix in the croutons to ensure they retain their crispness.
Taste Check: Adjust seasoning if necessary by adding a bit more salt or pepper, depending on preference.
Serve Immediately: Present this fresh, colorful salad in a serving dish and enjoy the combination of textures and flavors.

Tips

Substitute Onion: If you prefer a milder taste, consider using green onions or scallions instead.
Croutons: Homemade croutons can be easily flavored with herbs like rosemary or thyme for additional depth.
Storage: If preparing ahead, store the salad and dressing separately, mixing them only before serving to prevent sogginess.

Nutritions

Calories: Approximately 180 calories per serving
Protein: 4g
Fats: 9g
Carbohydrates: 20g

Variations

For Added Protein: Add slices of grilled chicken or chickpeas.
For a Vegan Option: Use a vinaigrette dressing and omit yogurt.
For a Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the dressing.

Serving Suggestions

Pair with: Grilled salmon or chicken for a complete meal.
Accompany with: Fresh lemonade or a light white wine.
Garnish with: Fresh herbs like basil or parsley for added freshness.

Best Places

Chez Panisse - A pioneer in fresh, seasonal salads. Location: 1517 Shattuck Ave, Berkeley, USA.
Ottolenghi - Celebrated for Middle Eastern-inspired salads. Location: 287 Upper Street, London, UK.
Noma - Renowned for its new Nordic menu, featuring inventive vegetable dishes. Location: Refshalevej 96, Copenhagen, Denmark.
Le Bernardin - Offers exquisite seafood salads. Location: 155 W 51st St, New York, USA.
Gjelina - Known for its vibrant salads and California cuisine. Location: 1429 Abbot Kinney Blvd, Venice, USA.
Tartine Manufactory - Famed for artisan bread and accompanying fresh salads. Location: 595 Alabama St, San Francisco, USA.
Chez Janou - Offers French cuisine with a focus on salads. Location: 2 Rue Roger Verlomme, Paris, France.
River Café - Known for its Italian-inspired salads. Location: Thames Wharf, Rainville Rd, London, UK.
Quince - Offers a refined dining experience with fresh seasonal produce. Location: 470 Pacific Ave, San Francisco, USA.
The Ledbury - Celebrated for its sophisticated use of vegetables. Location: 127 Ledbury Road, London, UK.