Quick Fix: Fancy Salad

Salad is an amazingly quick fix and one that is also really healthy for you! I enjoy salads with many a meal. One thing I love about salads? They can be simple and yet stunning. It's not rocket science, and there are a diversity of ways to mix it up. I am starting with this one, but I hope to bring you many more salads over our time together...

Another great thing? This recipe pairs really with either the quick fix croutons or the quick fix blood orange vinaigrette--or BOTH! Also, there are lots of ingredients you can substitute, so that you can use whatever you have on hand.

I start with a handful of arugula on each plate. Arugula is a great, slightly bitter, green that adds a ton of dimension to the plate. I highly recommend it. 

I like variety. I buy these Artisan lettuces locally and they taste great. I also love the pops of color. Aesthetics. What can I say? 

Any-who, chop 1/2 head of your preferred lettuce and divide it amongst the plates, and then toss them a bit to combine. 

Slice 1/2 red onion and distribute evenly on top of your greenery. Why red onion? It's a great salad onion and, I mean, the color always is a big selling point for me. Is it shallow? Okay, I love the taste too! 

Now add some nuts. Your choice, but this is what I had on hand. Funny story, too.... for years (and I mean years) I thought that these were "silvered" almonds. I never really took time to look at it properly and the "L" seemed to be placed wherever I wanted---SLIVERED! My god, it makes so much sense now! 

Lastly, add a little bit of cheese. I used ricotta salata, which is totally amazing, but 'round these parts, totally impossible to find. Blue cheese, feta, or any other crumbly cheese will do just fine! 

Top with your favorite dressing and enjoy with someone you love....even if that someone is YOU! 

Time: 10 minutes | Serves 2 | Difficulty: Easy 

You Will Need: 

2 handfuls of arugula (1 for each plate) 

1/2 head artisan lettuce, your choice

1/2 red onion, sliced

sprinkling of slivered almonds (or your own favorite nut) for each plate 

crumbly cheese to top, such as ricotta salata, feta, or blue cheese 

Method: 

Wash your lettuce and arugula and pat dry with a paper towel. Distribute the arugula evenly on two plates. 

Cut or tear the lettuce into bite sized pieces, and place on plates with arugula. Toss with hands to combine evenly. 

Top the greens with the onion, desired nuts, and cheese. 

If desired top with croutons, and/or blood orange vinaigrette. 

Enjoy!