Mixed Lettuce, Apple, and Walnut Salad with Vegetarian Ranch Dressing

This vibrant and flavorful salad is perfect for a light lunch or dinner for two. The crisp mixed lettuce leaves, sweet apple slices, crunchy walnuts, and creamy vegetarian ranch dressing create a delicious harmony of textures and flavors. Whether you’re vegetarian or vegan, this salad is sure to satisfy your taste buds and leave you feeling nourished and satisfied.

Preparation Time: 15 minutes Servings: 2

Ingredients

For the Salad:

• 4 cups mixed lettuce leaves (such as romaine, butter lettuce, and arugula), washed and torn into bite-sized pieces
• 1 medium apple, cored and thinly sliced
• 1/2 cup walnuts, roughly chopped
• 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese (optional, omit for vegan version)
• Salt and pepper to taste

For the Vegetarian Ranch Dressing:

• 1/2 cup mayonnaise (use vegan mayonnaise for vegan version)
• 1/4 cup sour cream (use vegan sour cream for vegan version)
• 1/4 cup plain yogurt (use dairy-free yogurt for vegan version)
• 2 tablespoons finely chopped fresh parsley
• 1 tablespoon finely chopped fresh chives
• 1 clove garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
• 1/4 teaspoon dried dill
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Water, as needed to thin the dressing

Preparation

1. Prepare the Salad:
   • Start by washing the mixed lettuce leaves thoroughly under cold running water. Pat them dry using a clean kitchen towel or salad spinner.
   • Tear the lettuce leaves into bite-sized pieces and place them in a large salad bowl.
   • Core the apple and thinly slice it into wedges or thin half-moons. Add the sliced apple to the bowl with the lettuce leaves.
   • Roughly chop the walnuts and sprinkle them over the salad.
   • If using, crumble the feta cheese over the salad ingredients.
   • Season the salad with salt and pepper to taste. Toss gently to combine all the ingredients.
2. Make the Vegetarian Ranch Dressing:
   • In a small mixing bowl, combine the mayonnaise, sour cream, and plain yogurt. Stir until smooth and well combined.
   • Add the finely chopped fresh parsley, chives, minced garlic, lemon juice, onion powder, and dried dill to the bowl.
   • Season the dressing with salt and pepper to taste. Stir well to incorporate all the ingredients.
   • If the dressing is too thick, you can thin it out with a little water until you reach your desired consistency. Start with a tablespoon of water and add more as needed, stirring well after each addition.
3. Assemble and Serve:
   • Drizzle the vegetarian ranch dressing over the mixed lettuce, apple, and walnut salad, starting with a small amount and adding more as desired.
   • Toss the salad gently to coat the ingredients evenly with the dressing.
   • Divide the salad between two serving plates or bowls.
   • Garnish with additional chopped herbs or a sprinkle of black pepper if desired.
   • Serve immediately and enjoy your refreshing and nutritious mixed lettuce, apple, and walnut salad with vegetarian ranch dressing!