Laurie'S Salad
Laurie's Salad offers a vibrant mix of vegetables and olives marinated in a tangy vinaigrette, perfect for a light, flavorful side or appetizer for gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Mix all ingredients together in a large bowl.
- Marinate overnight in the refrigerator.
- Serve chilled.
Tips & Substitutions
For a flavor boost, consider adding a splash of lemon juice or a teaspoon of Dijon mustard to the dressing. You can substitute the frozen California Blend with fresh vegetables like snap peas or bell peppers for a crunchier texture. If you're looking for a lighter version, replace the oil with a non-fat yogurt-based dressing. This salad is versatile enough to accommodate various dietary preferences, including vegan recipes.
Serving Suggestions
This salad is perfect as a standalone dish or as a side at barbecues or potlucks. It pairs beautifully with grilled meats or sandwiches. For a complete meal, serve it alongside a hearty soup, such as Mom M'S Chili Sauce, or enjoy it with crusty bread to soak up the delicious juices.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors will continue to meld, enhancing the taste over time. If you prefer to serve it warm, gently reheat in the microwave, stirring occasionally, until just warmed through. However, this salad is best enjoyed chilled.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Laurie'S Salad contains roughly 1526 calories, with 10g protein, 42g carbohydrates, and 149g fat. It is an excellent source of dietary fiber (35% of the Daily Value), vitamin D (33% of the Daily Value), and iron (23% of the Daily Value), and a good source of potassium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 559mg per serving (24% of the Daily Value).
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 use fresh vegetables instead of frozen for this salad?
Absolutely! Fresh vegetables can add a vibrant crunch to the salad. If using fresh, make sure to blanch them quickly to maintain a bit of crispness. Adjust the marinating time to ensure the flavors meld well without becoming too soft.
How long can I marinate the salad?
Marinating the salad overnight is ideal for allowing the flavors to develop. However, if you're short on time, even 2-4 hours can enhance the taste. Just avoid marinating for more than 24 hours as the vegetables may become too soft.
Is this salad suitable for meal prep?
Yes, this salad is excellent for meal prep! It keeps well in the fridge and can be portioned out for lunches throughout the week. Just be sure to store it in individual containers to maintain freshness and convenience.
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).