Warm Salad with Jerusalem Artichokes

This delightful warm salad recipe features the unique flavor of Jerusalem artichokes, also known as topinamburs. This healthy dish is a beautiful medley of fresh ingredients, providing a balance of flavors and textures that will tantalize your taste buds. The crunchiness of Chinese cabbage and Swiss chard leaves, combined with the acidity of tomatoes, creates a vibrant visual and sensory experience. A handful of olives adds a delightful Mediterranean twist, while toasted bread croutons bring extra crunch. Fresh herbs like thyme, basil, and marjoram infuse the salad with aromatic notes. A dressing of olive oil, citrus juice, salt, and pepper ties everything together with a zesty touch. Perfect for a light lunch or an elegant side dish, this salad can be easily tailored to suit various diets or preferences. Enjoy this salad warm for the best flavor experience. It's both nutritious and delicious, making it a favorite choice for health-conscious food enthusiasts.

Ingredients

Main Ingredients

• 2 leaves of Chinese cabbage
• 1 leaf of Swiss chard
• 100 g Jerusalem artichokes
• A handful of olives
• 1 tomato
• Various fresh herbs (thyme, basil, and marjoram)

For the Croutons

• 2 slices of day-old bread
• 1 tbsp sunflower seeds
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 1 tsp Greek tomato spice mix
• 1/2 tsp soy sauce

For the Dressing

• 1 tbsp vinegar or lemon juice
• 3 tbsp olive oil
• Salt to taste
• Pepper to taste

Preparation Time

• Total Time: 20 minutes

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prepare the Jerusalem Artichokes: Start by boiling the Jerusalem artichokes in a pot. For enhanced flavor, use white wine instead of water and boil until they are tender, about 10 minutes.
2. Slice the Artichokes: Once cooked, let them cool slightly and slice them into thin rounds. Set aside.
3. Prepare the Vegetables: Wash and pat dry the Chinese cabbage and Swiss chard leaves. Tear them into bite-sized pieces.
4. Chop the Tomato: Cut the tomato into wedges and keep aside.
5. Mix the Herbs: Finely chop the fresh herbs—thyme, basil, and marjoram—and mix them together.
6. Make the Croutons: Cut the day-old bread into small cubes. In a pan, heat olive oil, then add the bread cubes. Sprinkle with sunflower seeds, Greek tomato spice mix, and soy sauce. Toast until golden and crunchy.
7. Prepare the Dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, vinegar or lemon juice, salt, and pepper until well combined.
8. Assemble the Salad: In a serving dish, layer the Chinese cabbage, Swiss chard, tomato wedges, olives, and Jerusalem artichokes.
9. Add the Herbs: Sprinkle the fresh herb mixture evenly over the salad.
10. Dress the Salad: Pour the dressing over the assembled salad.
11. Add the Croutons: Finally, add the toasted croutons on top.
12. Serve Immediately: For the best flavor, serve the salad warm. Enjoy!

Tips

• Jerusalem Artichoke Substitution: If unavailable, you can use parsnips or potatoes as a substitute.
• Croutons: Use different types of bread, like rye or whole grain, for varied flavors.
• Flavor Variations: Add feta cheese for a salty touch or incorporate roasted nuts for extra crunch.

Nutritions

• Calories: Approximately 350 kcal per serving
• Protein: 5 g
• Fats: 28 g
• Carbohydrates: 20 g

Variations

• Vegetarian: This recipe is naturally vegetarian but feel free to add grilled tofu or tempeh for more protein.
• Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free bread for the croutons.
• Vegan: Ensure all dressings and croutons are plant-based.

Serving Suggestions

• Pair with a light soup for a satisfying meal.
• Serve alongside roasted chicken or grilled fish for a complete dinner.
• Garnish with additional fresh herbs just before serving for a burst of color.

Best Places

1. The Salad Project - Renowned for its fresh, innovative salads, offering a variety of seasonal ingredients. Location: 18 Broadwick St, Soho, London, UK.
2. Cafe Gratitude - A plant-based cafe that embraces the farm-to-table ethos with locally sourced ingredients. Location: 639 N Larchmont Blvd, Los Angeles, CA, USA.
3. Greenhouse Canteen & Bar - Offers delicious vegan dishes, including an array of creative salads. Location: 191 Greenpoint Ave, Brooklyn, NY, USA.
4. Le Pain Quotidien - Known for its simple, wholesome food served in a communal setting. Location: 100 Grand St, New York, NY, USA.
5. Vincent Restaurant - A contemporary dining spot with beautifully plated and flavorful dishes. Location: 30 Faubourg de Pierre, Strasbourg, France.
6. The Smith - Known for its American comfort food with a twist, serving fresh and hearty salads. Location: 1900 Broadway, New York, NY, USA.
7. Heirloom Vegetarian - Offers vegetarian and plant-based fare with a focus on farm-fresh ingredients. Location: 1509 W 12th Ave, Vancouver, BC, Canada.
8. Chin Chin Ice Cream and Dessert Bar - Famed for its unique approach to ice cream, also offering distinctive salad options. Location: 49-50 Camden Lock Place, London, UK.
9. Mary’s Cafe - A small cafe known for its fresh ingredients and comforting salads. Location: 517 W Main St, Denison, TX, USA.
10. La Petite Maison - Celebrated for its lovely salads and welcoming atmosphere. Location: 54 Brooks Mews, Mayfair, London, UK.