Rainbow Vegetable Salad With Lemon Vinaigrette

The Rainbow Vegetable Salad with Lemon Vinaigrette is a vibrant and fresh dish that showcases the beauty and flavors of seasonal vegetables. This salad isn’t only visually appealing with its array of colors, but it also packs a nutritional punch. Each vegetable contributes its unique flavor and texture, making every bite a delightful experience.

The tangy lemon vinaigrette ties everything together, enhancing the natural sweetness of the vegetables while adding a revitalizing zest. This salad is perfect for a light lunch or as a side dish for dinner. It’s highly customizable, allowing you to use whatever fresh vegetables you have on hand.

Whether you serve it as part of a picnic spread or as a healthy addition to a family meal, this Rainbow Vegetable Salad is sure to be a hit. It can also be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for a quick grab-and-go option.

Ingredients

• 2 chicken breasts, grilled and sliced
• 4 cups mixed salad greens
• 1 cup shredded carrots
• 1 red bell pepper, sliced
• 1 cucumber, sliced
• 1/4 cup chopped green onions
• 1/4 cup chopped cilantro
• 1/4 cup peanuts, chopped (for garnish)
• For the Peanut Dressing:
• 1/4 cup creamy peanut butter
• 2 tablespoons soy sauce
• 1 tablespoon honey
• 2 tablespoons rice vinegar
• 1 tablespoon sesame oil
• 1 tablespoon lime juice
• 1 teaspoon minced garlic
• Water to thin, as needed

Instructions

1. Start by grilling the chicken breasts on a grill pan or skillet over medium heat for about 5-7 minutes on each side, or until cooked through. Once done, remove from heat and let them rest for a few minutes before slicing them into strips.
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine the mixed salad greens, shredded carrots, sliced red bell pepper, sliced cucumber, chopped green onions, and chopped cilantro. Toss the ingredients gently to mix them evenly.
3. To prepare the peanut dressing, whisk together the creamy peanut butter, soy sauce, honey, rice vinegar, sesame oil, lime juice, and minced garlic in a separate bowl. Add water gradually until you reach your desired consistency for the dressing.
4. Drizzle the peanut dressing over the salad mixture and toss gently to guarantee all the ingredients are coated evenly. Add the sliced grilled chicken on top.
5. Finally, garnish the salad with chopped peanuts for an added crunch and serve immediately.

Extra Tips