Dandelion Greens Salad Recipe

Savor the unique flavors of spring with this Dandelion Greens Salad Recipe, a delightful blend of nature's bounty and wholesome ingredients. This recipe transforms the often-overlooked dandelion greens into a culinary centerpiece, combined with juicy cherry tomatoes, rich roasted walnuts, and crisp red onions. The optional garnish of dandelion flowers not only adds a splash of color but also a subtle sweet note, complementing the salad's earthy tones. Topped with a homemade Agave-Maple Lemon Dressing, this salad strikes a perfect balance between the bitter greens and the sweet, tangy dressing. Whether you're looking for a refreshing side dish or a light main course, this Dandelion Greens Salad, with its array of textures and flavors, is sure to delight your palate. Ideal for pairing with grilled tofu or seitan, it's a healthful and satisfying meal that celebrates the fresh, vibrant tastes of the season.

Ingredients

4 cups of fresh dandelion greens, washed and roughly chopped
1/2 cup of cherry tomatoes, halved
1/4 cup of roasted walnuts, coarsely chopped
1/4 cup of thinly sliced red onion
Agave-Maple Lemon Dressing (Click here for Recipe)
Dandelion flowers for garnish (optional, but greatly recommended)

Instructions

Salad: In a large mixing bowl, combine dandelion greens, cherry tomatoes, feta cheese, roasted walnuts, and red onion. On a plate, drizzle a generous amount of the dressing at the base of a serving plate. This creates a visually appealing gloss and ensures that the greens are seasoned from below. Mound the salad mixture in the center of the plate over the dressing. Drizzle some more dressing on top of the salad. This not only adds flavor but also a sheen that enhances the look.

Garnish: Sprinkle some roasted walnuts over the top, allowing them to cascade naturally over the sides for a rustic appeal. If available and desired, sprinkle a few clean and fresh dandelion flowers over the salad. This adds a burst of color and reinforces the main ingredient's presence. Dandelion flowers are indeed edible and have a slightly sweet taste, but ensure they haven't been treated with chemicals or pesticides before adding them to your dish. They also serve as a wonderful visual element to the salad. For a final touch, sprinkle a pinch of coarse sea salt over the top.