Dockside Summer Salad
A refreshing summer salad featuring fresh greens, dried cranberries, and toasted walnuts, dressed with a tangy tarragon vinaigrette, perfect for light, flavorful meals or picnics.
Ingredients
Instructions
- In a mixing bowl, whisk together minced shallot, apple cider vinegar, Dijon mustard, and chopped tarragon.
- Gradually whisk in the extra virgin olive oil until the dressing thickens.
- In a large bowl, toss the mixed salad greens with the vinaigrette.
- Transfer the salad to a serving bowl and sprinkle with dried cranberries and chopped walnuts.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, let the dressing sit for at least 10 minutes before tossing it with the greens. You can substitute red wine vinegar for apple cider vinegar, or try a different herb like basil if tarragon isn't available. Adding some diced avocado can enhance the creaminess of the salad. If you prefer a sweeter touch, consider adding honey to the dressing.
Serving Suggestions
This refreshing salad pairs beautifully with grilled chicken or shrimp for a light summer meal. Consider serving it alongside a crusty baguette or alongside dishes like Green Mansions Slaw for a colorful spread. It also makes a fantastic side for barbecue gatherings or picnics.
Storage & Reheating
To store leftovers, keep the salad and dressing separate in airtight containers in the refrigerator. The greens can become wilted if mixed with the dressing too early. Enjoy the salad within 2 days for optimal freshness, and if needed, toss with more dressing just before serving.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Dockside Summer Salad contains roughly 1277 calories, with 85g protein, 196g carbohydrates, and 44g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (222% of the Daily Value), vitamin C (204% of the Daily Value), and protein (169% of the Daily Value). It also contributes 29g of dietary fiber toward your daily target.
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this salad vegan?
Yes, this salad is easily adaptable to vegan diets. Ensure that the Dijon mustard you use is vegan-friendly, and consider adding chickpeas for additional protein. The dressing is already free of animal products, making it a great option for vegan recipes.
How can I make this salad more filling?
To make the salad more filling, consider adding ingredients like grilled chicken, quinoa, or chickpeas. These additions will provide protein and make it a more substantial meal while still maintaining the fresh flavor profile.
What can I use instead of walnuts?
If you're allergic to walnuts or simply prefer a different nut, feel free to substitute with pecans, almonds, or even sunflower seeds for crunch. Each option will add a unique flavor while still complementing the salad's overall taste.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).