Description
A vibrant and fresh Spring Mix Salad featuring heirloom tomatoes, creamy avocado, and marinated red onions, topped with toasted gluten-free panko breadcrumbs and freshly grated parmesan. Dressed with a zesty lemon garlic vinaigrette, this salad is quick to prepare, crisp, and flavorful—perfect for a light lunch or a side dish.
Ingredients
Scale
Salad Ingredients
- 1/2 red onion, sliced thin
- 2 boxes Little Leaf spring mix salad blend
- 1/4 teaspoon fine sea salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 avocado, sliced
- 2 large heirloom tomatoes, sliced
- 1/3 cup freshly grated parmesan cheese (more as desired)
- 1/3 cup gluten-free panko breadcrumbs or finely ground pecans, toasted
Dressing Ingredients
- 1/3 cup extra virgin olive oil
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice
- 1/2 garlic clove, grated
- 1/2 teaspoon fine sea salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon dried oregano
Instructions
- Marinate the Onions & Make Dressing: Slice the red onion into thin rings and place them in the bottom of a mason jar, container, or bowl. Add the olive oil, lemon juice, grated garlic, salt, black pepper, and oregano. Toss well to combine. Cover and set aside until you are ready to assemble the salad, allowing the onions to soften and infuse the dressing with flavor.
- Toast the Breadcrumbs: Heat a small skillet over medium heat and add the panko breadcrumbs or finely ground pecans. Toast them for 2-3 minutes, stirring often, until golden brown and fragrant. Remove from heat and let cool completely.
- Assemble the Salad: Place the spring mix salad blend into a large bowl or serving dish. Sprinkle with fine sea salt and black pepper to season the greens evenly.
- Add Toppings: Arrange the sliced avocado and heirloom tomatoes attractively on top of the greens. Add the marinated red onions with their dressing on top, reserving any extra dressing for later.
- Add Cheese and Crunch: Sprinkle the freshly grated parmesan cheese and the toasted panko breadcrumbs or pecans evenly over the salad to add flavor and texture.
- Dress & Serve: Drizzle the reserved lemon dressing from the onions evenly over the entire salad just before serving. Toss gently if desired, and serve immediately to enjoy the freshest flavors.
Notes
- Use gluten-free panko breadcrumbs or finely ground pecans as a crunchy topping to suit dietary preferences.
- Marinating the onions softens their sharpness and infuses the salad with extra flavor.
- For best texture, toast breadcrumbs just before assembling the salad.
- This salad is best served fresh but leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to one day without dressing.
- Adjust seasoning to taste, especially salt and pepper, before serving.
- Prep Time: 8 minutes
- Cook Time: 5 minutes
- Category: Salad
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
