Easy Salad Recipe for Hot Weather

This crisp, cooling salad is quick to prepare and well suited to hot weather. Fresh vegetables, herbs, and a bright citrus dressing create a light meal or side dish without requiring any cooking.

Ingredients

For the salad

• 1 cucumber, thinly sliced
• 2 tomatoes, cut into wedges
• 1 small carrot, shredded
• 1 sweet pepper, thinly sliced
• 2 cups lettuce or finely shredded cabbage
• 2 spring onions, sliced
• A small handful of fresh mint or cilantro, roughly chopped
• 2 tablespoons roasted peanuts or cashews, optional

For the dressing

• 2 tablespoons fresh lime juice
• 1 tablespoon neutral oil or olive oil
• 1 teaspoon soy sauce
• 1 teaspoon honey or sugar
• 1 small garlic clove, finely grated
• Fresh chili or chili flakes to taste, optional

Method

1. Wash and prepare all the vegetables, then place them in a large bowl.
2. Whisk the lime juice, oil, soy sauce, honey, garlic, and optional chili until combined.
3. Pour the dressing over the vegetables immediately before serving and toss gently.
4. Add the fresh herbs and sprinkle with nuts for extra flavor and crunch.

Serving Suggestions

Serve the salad immediately while the vegetables are crisp. For a more substantial meal, add cooked chicken, tofu, shrimp, or a boiled egg. Rice noodles can also be mixed through the salad after they have been cooked and cooled.

Helpful Tips

• Chill the vegetables before assembling the salad for a more refreshing result.
• Keep the dressing separate if preparing the dish in advance.
• Adjust the balance of lime, sweetness, salt, and chili to taste.
• Store undressed salad in a covered container in the refrigerator and use within one day for the best texture.