Dandelion Salad with Lemon-Honey Vinaigrette

Ingredients:

• For the Salad:
  • 2 cups fresh dandelion greens, washed and roughly chopped
  • 1 cup mixed salad greens (optional)
  • 1/2 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
  • 1/4 cup red onion, thinly sliced
  • 1/4 cup radishes, thinly sliced
  • 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese (optional)
  • 1/4 cup walnuts or sunflower seeds, toasted
• For the Lemon-Honey Vinaigrette:
  • 1/4 cup olive oil
  • 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
  • 1 tablespoon honey
  • 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
  • Salt and pepper, to taste

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Dandelion Greens:
   • Pick young, tender dandelion greens from a clean, pesticide-free area. Wash them thoroughly to remove dirt and debris. Pat them dry with a clean kitchen towel or paper towel.
2. Assemble the Salad:
   • In a large salad bowl, combine the dandelion greens, mixed salad greens (if using), cherry tomatoes, red onion, and radishes.
   • Sprinkle the crumbled feta cheese and toasted walnuts or sunflower seeds over the salad.
3. Make the Vinaigrette:
   • In a small bowl or jar, whisk together the olive oil, fresh lemon juice, honey, and Dijon mustard. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Adjust the sweetness or acidity by adding more honey or lemon juice, if needed.
4. Dress the Salad:
   • Pour the vinaigrette over the salad just before serving. Toss the salad gently to ensure all the ingredients are coated with the dressing.
5. Serve:
   • Serve the dandelion salad immediately, either as a refreshing starter or a light main dish.

Tips:

• Dandelion greens have a slightly bitter taste, similar to arugula. If you prefer a milder flavor, mix them with other salad greens or blanch them briefly in boiling water before using.
• Dandelion flowers can also be used as a garnish for a pop of color and a touch of sweetness.

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Dandelions are not only nutritious but also versatile. Their leaves, flowers, and roots can be used in various culinary preparations, making them a true “power plant” often overlooked. Enjoy this fresh and healthy salad, and explore the many ways to incorporate dandelions into your diet!