Flavorful Eight Herb Salad: Garden Fresh, Crispy, and Easy
Here is a salad where every bite surprises you with a different flavor—crisp, aromatic, and vibrant. This is not just a salad; it’s a celebration of herbs.
I used a mix of my favorite greens and herbs: sorrel, fresh oregano, dill, mint, chervil, chives, green garlic, and cilantro. The generous amount of fragrant herbs elevate this salad from ordinary to extraordinary. Each forkful is a new experience, filled with layers of taste and texture.
Don’t be deterred by the thought of needing a large garden to enjoy these fresh herbs. I cultivate mine in pots on my balcony, a simple and rewarding process. These herbs aren’t just a garnish in my kitchen; they’re the stars, infusing my summer meals with their unique flavors and aromas.
Among these herbs, chives and green garlic are unique in my heart. The purple chive flowers look pretty and add a mild, fragrant onion flavor. Green garlic, harvested before it matures into the familiar bulbs, is juicy and tender. It’s milder than regular garlic, so chop it up and enjoy.
Even if you don’t have your herb garden, don’t worry! Supermarkets offer a variety of fresh herbs that are just waiting to be explored. Spend extra time in the produce section, and the myriad possibilities might inspire you. This simple yet aromatic salad pairs wonderfully with seafood, meats, or pasta, making it a versatile addition to your meal repertoire.
It’s not just about the taste; these herbs are powerhouses of nutrition. Packed with vitamins, minerals, and health benefits, they contribute to our overall wellness. This salad is a testament to the incredible taste and health benefits of fresh herbs, making it a delicious and nutritious addition to your diet.
To preserve their vibrant flavors, I keep the dressing simple: a drizzle of extra virgin olive oil, a squeeze of fresh lime or lemon juice, a pinch of salt, and freshly ground black pepper. The result is a splendid, refreshing salad that highlights the luxury of each herb without overwhelming it.
Try this recipe, and let the herbs shine on your plate.
Flavorful Eight Herb Salad Garden Fresh Crispy and Easy
Ingredients
- 4-5 Several leaves of green and purple lettuce
- 6-8 sorrel leaves
- 4-5 leaves of fresh basil
- 4 leaves of mint
- Handful of fresh dill
- Handful of cilantro
- Handful of chervil
- Fresh oregano leaves
- 4-6 Sprigs of chives and chive flowers
- 4-6 Sprigs of green garlic leaves
- 2 tbsp juice from one lime or lemon or good quality balsamic vinegar
- 1 tbsp olive oil extra virgin
- Salt and freshly ground pepper to taste
- 1 tbsp roasted sunflowers optional
- 1/4 cup roasted almonds optional
- 1/4 cup wasabi peas optional
Instructions
- Gather your ingredients.
- Do not chop or tear the fresh leaves. Wash them quickly and dry them gently with a paper towel. Cut chives and green garlic into 3-4 inch pieces.
- Place the greens in a large bowl. Instead of pouring the oil and vinegar, along with a pinch of salt, directly onto the greens, pour them around the sides of the bowl. This way, as you gently toss the salad, the dressing coats the leaves evenly without making them wilt immediately.Gently toss the salad until the leaves are uniformly coated with the dressing.Taste the salad and adjust by adding more salt, vinegar, or oil if necessary. The final salad should have a balance of crispness, acidity, and a hint of saltiness.
- Serve as is, or add some seeds or nuts. For some crunch, I used sunflower seeds, roasted almonds, and wasabi peas.
- I highly recommend using organic ingredients to maximize flavor and health benefits. Enjoy this vibrant, herb-filled salad!