We love diving into fresh, vibrant salads, and our Nish Nosh Salad recipe is a true gem that brings bold flavors to your table. This easy-to-make dish combines crisp veggies with tangy dressings for a satisfying crunch that’ll brighten any meal.
Hailing from simple, everyday inspirations, it’s become a go-to favorite in our kitchen for its wholesome ingredients and quick prep. We’re confident you’ll enjoy how it balances taste and nutrition in every bite.
Ingredients
In our Nish Nosh Salad, we carefully select vibrant fresh vegetables and complementary elements to deliver a nutritious and flavorful dish that’s quick to prepare.
To recreate this wholesome recipe, gather the following ingredients in the order we use them—starting with the base greens, moving to vegetables, add-ins, and finally the dressing. We’ve noted specific prep details for accuracy and ease.
- Mixed greens (4 cups): Choose a mix of spinach, arugula, and romaine for the base—wash thoroughly and pat dry to ensure crispness.
- Cherry tomatoes (1 cup): Halve these juicy gems for even distribution and a burst of sweetness in every bite.
- Cucumber (1 medium): Slice into thin rounds or dice for added crunch—peel if desired for a milder flavor.
- Red onion (½ cup, thinly sliced): Soak in cold water for 5 minutes to mellow the sharpness, then drain before adding.
- Feta cheese (½ cup, crumbled): Use high-quality feta for a tangy contrast—crumble by hand for the best texture.
- Almonds (¼ cup, toasted): Lightly toast in a dry pan over medium heat for 2-3 minutes to enhance their nutty flavor and crunch.
- Olive oil (3 tablespoons): Select extra-virgin for its rich, fruity notes as the foundation of our dressing.
- Balsamic vinegar (2 tablespoons): Combine with oil for a tangy dressing—whisk together just before tossing to keep it fresh.
- Fresh herbs (¼ cup, chopped): A mix of basil and parsley adds aromatic depth—chop finely right before use to preserve their oils.
- Salt and pepper (to taste): Freshly ground black pepper and sea salt for seasoning—add during the final assembly to balance flavors.
Instructions
Now that we have gathered our fresh ingredients for the Nish Nosh Salad, we will walk you through the straightforward steps to prepare and assemble this vibrant dish packed with crisp textures and bold flavors.
Prepare the Ingredients
To ensure our Nish Nosh Salad bursts with freshness and nutrient-rich appeal, begin by prepping each component with care. Follow these steps in order:
- Wash and dry the greens: Start with 4 cups of mixed greens including spinach, arugula, and romaine. Rinse them under cold water to remove any dirt then pat dry with a clean towel or use a salad spinner for crisp results.
- Chop the vegetables: Dice 1 cup of cherry tomatoes halved for juicy bursts slice 1 medium cucumber into thin rounds for crunch and thinly slice ½ a red onion to add a sharp tangy note.
- Prepare the cheese and nuts: Crumble ½ cup of feta cheese for creamy tanginess and toast ¼ cup of almonds in a dry skillet over medium heat for 3-5 minutes until golden stirring constantly to enhance their nutty flavor and add satisfying texture.
- Make the dressing: In a small bowl whisk together 3 tablespoons of extra-virgin olive oil 2 tablespoons of balsamic vinegar and 1 tablespoon each of chopped fresh basil and parsley to create a zesty blend that ties the salad together with herbaceous brightness.
Assemble the Salad
- Layer the base: In a large salad bowl add the washed and dried mixed greens as the foundation then top with the chopped cherry tomatoes cucumber and red onion for a colorful vibrant display that promises a symphony of textures.
- Add toppings: Sprinkle the crumbled feta cheese and toasted almonds over the vegetables to introduce creamy and crunchy elements that elevate the salad’s overall appeal.
- Dress and toss: Drizzle the homemade dressing evenly over the salad then gently toss everything together with salad tongs to ensure each bite is coated in tangy herbaceous goodness that awakens the senses with fresh flavors.
- Serve immediately: Divide the salad into portions and serve right away to maintain its crispness and let the bold flavors shine through for a satisfying nutritious meal.
Tools and Equipment
To bring our Nish Nosh Salad together efficiently, we rely on a few essential tools that make preparation seamless and enhance the overall experience. These items align directly with the chopping, mixing, and assembling steps from our previous instructions, ensuring everything from washing greens to whisking the dressing goes smoothly.
Here’s a curated list of the key tools we recommend, organized by their sequence of use in the recipe:
- Cutting Board: A sturdy, non-slip cutting board is crucial for safely chopping vegetables like cucumber, red onion, and cherry tomatoes. We prefer a large wooden or plastic one to provide ample space and minimize mess.
- Sharp Chef’s Knife: For precise cuts that maintain the crisp texture of our mixed greens and other ingredients, a sharp 8-inch chef’s knife works wonders. It helps us achieve uniform pieces, which ensures even flavor distribution in every bite.
- Salad Spinner: This tool is indispensable for washing and drying spinach, arugula, and romaine quickly. We use it to remove excess water, preventing a soggy salad and preserving that fresh, vibrant crunch.
- Mixing Bowls: A set of medium-sized mixing bowls—ideally glass or stainless steel—allows us to prepare and combine ingredients separately. One bowl for the greens and another for the dressing keeps our workflow organized.
- Whisk: A standard balloon whisk helps us blend the extra-virgin olive oil, balsamic vinegar, and fresh herbs into a smooth, emulsified dressing. Its wires ensure thorough mixing for that tangy flavor we love.
- Measuring Cups and Spoons: Accurate measurements are key to balancing tastes, so we always reach for a set of these for oils, vinegars, and herbs. This prevents over- or under-seasoning, making our salad consistently delicious.
| Tool | Primary Use | Estimated Cost (USD) |
|---|---|---|
| Cutting Board | Chopping vegetables | $10–$25 |
| Sharp Chef’s Knife | Precise cutting of ingredients | $15–$50 |
| Salad Spinner | Washing and drying greens | $15–$30 |
| Mixing Bowls (set) | Combining and mixing components | $10–$20 |
| Whisk | Emulsifying dressing | $5–$15 |
| Measuring Cups and Spoons | Accurate ingredient measurement | $5–$15 |
Make-Ahead Instructions
As we dive deeper into preparing our Nish Nosh Salad, we know that busy schedules often call for smart planning. Making components ahead of time allows us to preserve the salad’s vibrant flavors and crisp textures without sacrificing freshness. Below, we outline the key steps for prepping in advance, ensuring your salad remains a nutritious and satisfying meal.
Components You Can Prepare Ahead
We recommend focusing on elements that hold up well, while avoiding assembly until serving to maintain that delightful crunch:
- Mixed Greens: Wash and dry the greens (like spinach, arugula, and romaine) up to 2 days in advance. Store them in a salad spinner or an airtight container lined with paper towels to absorb moisture, keeping them crisp and ready for our vibrant base.
- Chopped Vegetables: Slice cherry tomatoes, cucumber, and red onion a day ahead. Place them in separate containers to prevent sogginess—tomatoes and cucumber in one, onion in another—to lock in their fresh, juicy appeal.
- Toasted Almonds: Toast the almonds in advance and let them cool completely. Store in an airtight jar for up to 5 days, so their nutty crunch enhances the salad’s texture without last-minute fuss.
- Feta Cheese: Crumble the feta ahead of time and keep it in a sealed container in the refrigerator. This step ensures its tangy flavor integrates seamlessly when we assemble.
- Dressing: Whisk together the extra-virgin olive oil, balsamic vinegar, and fresh herbs (like basil and parsley) up to 3 days in advance. Store in a glass jar in the fridge, then bring to room temperature and shake well before use to maintain its emulsified, zesty consistency.
Storage Tips for Optimal Freshness
To keep our Nish Nosh Salad at its best, proper storage is key. Here’s a quick guide:
| Component | Make-Ahead Time | Storage Method | Tips for Maintaining Quality |
|---|---|---|---|
| Mixed Greens | Up to 2 days | Airtight container with paper towels | Avoid overcrowding to prevent wilting and retain crispness. |
| Chopped Vegetables | Up to 1 day | Separate sealed containers in fridge | Pat dry before storing to minimize excess moisture and preserve crunch. |
| Toasted Almonds | Up to 5 days | Airtight jar at room temperature | Keep away from heat or light to avoid staleness and ensure maximum flavor. |
| Feta Cheese | Up to 3 days | Sealed container in fridge | Use fresh cheese for the best tang; cover tightly to prevent drying out. |
| Dressing | Up to 3 days | Glass jar in fridge | Shake vigorously before use to restore its vibrant, herbaceous taste. |
Final Assembly Steps
When you’re ready to serve, we suggest assembling just before eating to let the bold flavors shine. Start by layering the prepped greens and vegetables in a bowl, add the toppings, drizzle the dressing, and toss gently. This approach ensures every bite delivers that perfect balance of freshness and nutrition, making our Nish Nosh Salad a go-to for effortless, wholesome meals.
Conclusion
We’ve loved sharing the Nish Nosh Salad with you as it’s become a staple in our kitchen.
This recipe proves how simple ingredients can create a meal that’s both nutritious and full of flavor.
We’re confident you’ll make it your own and enjoy its fresh vibes in your routine.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Nish Nosh Salad?
The Nish Nosh Salad is a fresh, vibrant dish featuring crisp vegetables, tangy dressings, and wholesome ingredients like mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, and feta cheese. It’s inspired by everyday items for quick preparation, offering a perfect balance of taste and nutrition, making it a go-to healthy meal option.
What ingredients are needed for the Nish Nosh Salad?
You’ll need a base of mixed greens (like spinach, arugula, and romaine), cherry tomatoes, cucumber, red onion, feta cheese, and toasted almonds. The dressing includes extra-virgin olive oil, balsamic vinegar, and fresh herbs such as basil and parsley. These simple, fresh ingredients create a flavorful, nutritious salad in minutes.
How do I prepare the Nish Nosh Salad?
Start by washing and drying the mixed greens, then chop vegetables like cucumber and red onion. Prepare toppings by crumbling feta and toasting almonds. Whisk together olive oil, balsamic vinegar, and herbs for the dressing. Layer greens and veggies, add toppings, drizzle dressing, and toss. Serve immediately for the best crispness and flavor.
What tools are required to make the Nish Nosh Salad?
You’ll need a sturdy cutting board, sharp chef’s knife for chopping, a salad spinner for greens, mixing bowls for ingredients, a whisk for the dressing, and measuring cups and spoons for accuracy. These tools ensure efficient prep and consistent results, making the process seamless.
Can I make the Nish Nosh Salad ahead of time?
Yes, prepare components like mixed greens, chopped vegetables, toasted almonds, feta cheese, and dressing in advance. Store greens and veggies in airtight containers in the fridge to keep them fresh, and keep dressing separate. Assemble just before serving to maintain crispness and vibrant flavors for a quick, healthy meal.
Is the Nish Nosh Salad healthy?
Absolutely, it’s packed with nutrient-rich veggies like spinach and arugula, providing vitamins, fiber, and antioxidants. Combined with healthy fats from olive oil and protein from feta and almonds, it offers a balanced, low-calorie option that supports nutrition without sacrificing taste. It’s a wholesome choice for everyday meals.