If you’re looking for a fresh, vibrant dish that bursts with flavor and texture, the Herb and Radish Salad with Feta and Walnuts Recipe is an absolute winner. This salad strikes the perfect balance between peppery radishes, creamy feta, and crunchy walnuts, all brought together by a simple yet tangy balsamic dressing. It’s a quick, no-fuss recipe that feels elegant and light, making it ideal for a refreshing lunch or a stunning side for dinner. Once you try this salad, it just might become your go-to whenever you want something green and delicious with that irresistible crunch and zing.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Getting the ingredients right is key to nailing this salad. Each element is straightforward but essential, contributing layers of flavor, texture, and color that make every bite special. Plus, these ingredients are easy to find and combine incredibly well.
- 2 cups mixed greens: A fresh, leafy base providing a mild and crisp contrast to the other ingredients.
- 1 bunch radishes, thinly sliced: Adds a peppery crunch and beautiful pink color that brightens the salad.
- 1/4 cup feta cheese, crumbled: Creamy and salty, feta brings richness and depth.
- 1/4 cup walnuts, chopped: Provides a satisfying crunch and a subtly nutty flavor.
- 1 tablespoon olive oil: The perfect smooth dressing base that enhances the salad without overpowering it.
- 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar: Adds a sweet and tangy kick that ties all the ingredients together.
- Salt and pepper to taste: Essential seasonings to elevate every flavor note in the salad.
How to Make Herb and Radish Salad with Feta and Walnuts Recipe
Step 1: Toss the Mixed Greens and Radishes
Start by placing your fresh mixed greens in a large bowl. Gently toss in the thinly sliced radishes, giving the salad its signature crispness and a delightful peppery snap that wakes up your taste buds right away.
Step 2: Add Feta Cheese and Walnuts
Sprinkle the crumbled feta and chopped walnuts evenly over the greens and radishes. The feta adds a creamy salty punch, while the walnuts introduce a lovely crunch and a subtle nuttiness that rounds out the flavors.
Step 3: Drizzle Olive Oil and Balsamic Vinegar
Drizzle the smooth olive oil and tangy balsamic vinegar over the salad. These liquids are key players, marrying the ingredients and adding luscious moisture with a touch of acidity that brightens the entire dish.
Step 4: Season and Toss Gently
Add salt and pepper to taste, then toss everything gently. You want to coat every leaf and slice without bruising the delicate greens or crushing the nuts. Serve this beauty immediately to enjoy its fresh, crisp character.
How to Serve Herb and Radish Salad with Feta and Walnuts Recipe
Garnishes
For an extra splash of flavor and visually appealing touch, consider topping your salad with a few fresh herb sprigs like parsley, dill, or chives. A light zesting of lemon peel can also add a bright citrus aroma that enlivens each mouthful.
Side Dishes
This salad shines alongside grilled chicken or seared fish, providing a refreshing counterpoint to richer proteins. It also pairs beautifully with crusty bread—for a light lunch—or as part of a vibrant vegetarian spread featuring roasted vegetables and hummus.
Creative Ways to Present
If you want to impress guests, serve the salad in individual glass bowls or on colorful ceramic plates that highlight the radiant greens, pink radishes, and white feta. Layering the ingredients rather than mixing can create a stunning visual before the final toss.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have leftovers, keep the salad components separate if possible—especially the dressing and walnuts—to maintain freshness. Otherwise, store the assembled salad in an airtight container in the fridge and try to enjoy within a day, as the radishes and greens may become soggy.
Freezing
This salad is best enjoyed fresh and does not freeze well. The greens and radishes lose their crunch, and the feta texture can change unfavorably after freezing and thawing.
Reheating
No reheating needed here! This salad is a cold, crisp delight designed for immediate enjoyment. If you’re craving warm elements, pair it with hot dishes rather than trying to heat the salad itself.
FAQs
Can I use other nuts instead of walnuts?
Absolutely! Pecans, almonds, or even pine nuts can work wonderfully, adding their own unique crunch and flavor to the Herb and Radish Salad with Feta and Walnuts Recipe.
What if I don’t have balsamic vinegar?
You can substitute with red wine vinegar or apple cider vinegar for a different but equally tasty acidity that complements the salad flavors.
Is this salad suitable for vegans?
To make it vegan, simply omit the feta or use a plant-based cheese alternative. The rest of the ingredients are already vegan-friendly.
How long does this salad keep once dressed?
It’s best to eat it right after dressing, but if you must store it, consume within 24 hours for the best taste and texture.
Can I add other herbs to the salad?
Definitely! Fresh basil, mint, or dill can add exciting notes and complement the radishes and feta beautifully.
Final Thoughts
This Herb and Radish Salad with Feta and Walnuts Recipe is one of those effortless dishes that feels special no matter the occasion. It’s fresh, colorful, and packed with texture and flavor. Give it a try, and I promise it will become a refreshing staple in your culinary repertoire that you’ll be excited to share with friends and family.
Print
Herb and Radish Salad with Feta and Walnuts Recipe
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Total Time: 5 minutes
- Yield: 2 servings
- Category: Salad
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: Mediterranean
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
A refreshing and vibrant Herb and Radish Salad featuring crisp mixed greens, peppery radishes, creamy feta cheese, and crunchy walnuts, all dressed with a simple olive oil and balsamic vinegar dressing. This quick and easy salad is perfect for a light lunch or a healthy side dish.
Ingredients
Salad
- 2 cups mixed greens
- 1 bunch radishes, thinly sliced
- 1/4 cup feta cheese, crumbled
- 1/4 cup walnuts, chopped
Dressing
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Combine greens and radishes: In a large bowl, toss together the mixed greens and thinly sliced radishes to evenly distribute the vegetables.
- Add feta and walnuts: Sprinkle the crumbled feta cheese and chopped walnuts over the salad, ensuring even coverage for texture and flavor.
- Dress the salad: Drizzle olive oil and balsamic vinegar over the top, then season with salt and pepper according to your taste preferences.
- Toss and serve: Gently toss the salad to coat all ingredients with the dressing and serve immediately to enjoy the fresh flavors and crunchy texture.
Notes
- For additional freshness, you can add chopped fresh herbs like parsley or dill.
- Walnuts can be toasted lightly for extra crunch and flavor.
- Adjust the amount of balsamic vinegar and olive oil depending on your preferred dressing consistency.
- This salad is best enjoyed immediately to preserve the crispness of the greens and radishes.
