Ingredients:

• 4 cups mixed greens (such as spinach, arugula, and lettuce)
• 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
• 1 cucumber, sliced
• 1/4 red onion, thinly sliced
• 1 bell pepper, diced
• 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
• 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
• Pinch of salt, to taste
• Optional: Crumbled feta cheese, sliced avocado, or toasted nuts for garnish

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Greens:
   • Wash the mixed greens thoroughly and pat them dry with a clean kitchen towel or use a salad spinner to remove excess water. Place them in a large salad bowl.
2. Add the Vegetables:
   • Add the cherry tomatoes, cucumber slices, thinly sliced red onion, and diced bell pepper to the bowl with the mixed greens.
3. Make the Dressing:
   • In a small bowl, whisk together the extra virgin olive oil and fresh lemon juice until well combined. Season with a pinch of salt to taste.
4. Dress the Salad:
   • Drizzle the dressing over the salad ingredients in the bowl.
5. Toss to Combine:
   • Gently toss the salad ingredients with the dressing until everything is evenly coated.
6. Garnish (Optional):
   • If desired, garnish the salad with crumbled feta cheese, sliced avocado, or toasted nuts for added flavor and texture.
7. Serve:
   • Serve the mixed greens salad immediately as a refreshing side dish or as a light meal on its own.

Tips:

• You can customize this salad by adding other vegetables or toppings of your choice, such as sliced radishes, shredded carrots, or sunflower seeds.
• For a heartier salad, you can add or tofu as a protein option.
• Make sure to adjust the amount of dressing according to your preference. You can always add more or less lemon juice and olive oil to suit your taste.
• This salad is best served fresh, but any leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 1-2 days. Just be sure to dress the salad right before serving to prevent the greens from wilting.

Benefits:

1. Nutrient-Rich: Packed with vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants from a variety of colorful vegetables.
2. Heart-Healthy: Contains heart-healthy fats from extra virgin olive oil and optional toppings like avocado or nuts.
3. Versatile: Easily customizable with your favorite vegetables and toppings to suit your taste preferences.
4. Hydrating: Provides hydration from fresh vegetables and a light lemon dressing, perfect for supporting overall health.

Nutritive Value (Approximate per serving):

• Calories: 120 kcal
• Protein: 2g
• Fat: 9g
• Carbohydrates: 9g
• Fiber: 3g
• Sugars: 4g
• Vitamin A: 60% of the daily recommended value (DV)
• Vitamin C: 70% of the DV
• Calcium: 4% of the DV
• Iron: 6% of the DV

Enjoy this mixed greens salad as a refreshing side dish or a light meal packed with goodness!