Erewhon Salad has become a favorite for those who crave a fresh and vibrant meal that’s both nutritious and delicious. Inspired by the iconic health-conscious grocery store, this salad combines wholesome ingredients that are easy to find and full of flavor. It’s perfect for lunch, a light dinner, or even as a side dish to complement any meal.
We love how this salad balances crisp greens, juicy fruits, and crunchy nuts with a tangy dressing that ties everything together. It’s simple to make yet impressive enough to serve guests. Whether you’re looking to boost your daily greens or want a quick and satisfying dish, this Erewhon Salad recipe is a great addition to your kitchen repertoire. Let’s dive into making this fresh and tasty salad that’s sure to become a staple in your meal rotation.
Ingredients
To create the perfect Erewhon Salad, we gather fresh, vibrant components that balance flavor and nutrition. Below you will find all the essentials needed for both the salad and its tangy dressing.
Salad Ingredients
Here are the crisp greens, juicy fruits, and crunchy nuts that bring the Erewhon Salad to life:
- 4 cups mixed baby greens (spinach, arugula, and kale), washed and dried
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1/2 cup sliced cucumber, peeled and thinly sliced
- 1/4 cup shredded carrots
- 1/2 cup diced ripe avocado
- 1/3 cup dried cranberries or fresh pomegranate seeds
- 1/4 cup chopped walnuts or almonds, lightly toasted for extra crunch
- 2 tablespoons crumbled feta cheese (optional, for a creamy contrast)
Dressing Ingredients
The signature tangy dressing combines bright acidity with subtle sweetness to complement the salad’s fresh ingredients:
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| 3 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil | liquid gold for richness |
| 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice | brightens flavors |
| 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar | adds tangy depth |
| 1 teaspoon honey or maple syrup | balances acidity |
| 1/2 teaspoon Dijon mustard | smooth emulsifier |
| Salt and black pepper | to taste |
We recommend whisking these ingredients until smooth to create a vibrant dressing that lightly coats every bite of the salad.
Equipment Needed
To prepare the Erewhon Salad flawlessly, having the right equipment is essential. Each tool helps us achieve the perfect texture, flavor balance, and presentation that defines this vibrant dish.
- Large Salad Bowl
We need a spacious bowl to toss all the fresh ingredients without spilling. This allows the greens, fruits, nuts, and dressing to combine evenly.
- Cutting Board and Sharp Knife
Precision chopping is crucial. A sharp chef’s knife cuts the cucumber, tomatoes, and avocado cleanly, preserving their crispness and juiciness.
- Measuring Spoons and Cups
For accuracy in our dressing, we use measuring spoons and cups to add the exact quantities of olive oil, lemon juice, apple cider vinegar, honey, and Dijon mustard. Precise measurements balance the tangy dressing perfectly.
- Small Mixing Bowl
We whisk the dressing ingredients in a small bowl to emulsify them into a smooth, cohesive mixture ready to coat every bite.
- Whisk or Fork
A whisk is ideal for combining the dressing ingredients swiftly, incorporating air to create a light and flavorful vinaigrette.
- Salad Servers or Tongs
To toss and serve the salad, salad servers or tongs ensure each component is mixed gently but thoroughly without bruising the tender greens.
| Equipment | Purpose |
|---|---|
| Large Salad Bowl | Toss salad ingredients evenly |
| Cutting Board | Provide stable surface for chopping |
| Sharp Chef’s Knife | Precisely chop vegetables and fruits |
| Measuring Spoons/Cups | Ensure exact dressing ingredient quantities |
| Small Mixing Bowl | Whisk and blend the dressing |
| Whisk or Fork | Emulsify dressing to a smooth consistency |
| Salad Servers/Tongs | Mix and serve the salad without damage |
Having these tools on hand allows us to prepare the Erewhon Salad efficiently, highlighting every fresh, crunchy, and tangy element just as intended. As we combine the ingredients with care, the right equipment transforms this recipe from simple to spectacular.
Prep Work
To craft the perfect Erewhon Salad, our prep work must be precise and efficient. Properly preparing the ingredients ensures every bite bursts with fresh flavors and delightful textures.
Preparing the Vegetables
We start by washing all fresh produce thoroughly under cold running water. This step removes any dirt and ensures crispness.
- Mixed baby greens: Pat dry using a salad spinner or clean kitchen towel to avoid sogginess.
- Cherry tomatoes: Slice each tomato in half for juicy bursts.
- Cucumber: Cut off the ends, then slice into thin half-moons for a refreshing crunch.
- Shredded carrots: Use a grater or pre-shredded carrots for ease and vibrant color.
- Avocado: Halve, pit, and scoop the flesh, then cut into bite-size cubes. To avoid browning, sprinkle lightly with lemon juice.
Here’s a quick preparation breakdown:
| Ingredient | Preparation | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Mixed baby greens | Wash and dry thoroughly | Prevent sogginess |
| Cherry tomatoes | Halved | Juicy texture |
| Cucumber | Thin half-moons sliced | Refreshing crunch |
| Shredded carrots | Grated or pre-shredded | Adds sweetness and color |
| Avocado | Cubed after skin removal | Toss with lemon juice to prevent browning |
Making the Dressing
Next comes the signature tangy dressing that defines the Erewhon Salad. We recommend preparing the dressing fresh to maximize flavor and emulsification.
- In a small mixing bowl, combine:
-
⅓ cup extra virgin olive oil
-
2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
-
1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
- 1 teaspoon honey or maple syrup (choose based on your sweetness preference)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
- Whisk vigorously until the mixture is smooth and slightly thickened, ensuring perfect emulsification. This creates a beautifully balanced dressing that will lightly coat every crisp leaf and ingredient.
To summarize the dressing components and quantities:
| Ingredient | Quantity | Purpose |
|---|---|---|
| Extra virgin olive oil | ⅓ cup | Base fat for richness and smoothness |
| Fresh lemon juice | 2 tablespoons | Bright acidity |
| Apple cider vinegar | 1 tablespoon | Tangy depth |
| Honey or maple syrup | 1 teaspoon | Natural sweetness |
| Dijon mustard | 1 teaspoon | Emulsifier and flavor |
| Salt & pepper | To taste | Seasoning |
By handling our Erewhon Salad prep with care we set the stage to layer flavors and textures seamlessly in the upcoming steps.
Instructions
Follow these clear, step-by-step instructions to assemble, toss, and serve the Erewhon Salad perfectly every time. Let’s bring together all the vibrant ingredients and tangy dressing for a fresh and delightful experience.
Assembling the Salad
- Prepare the base: Place mixed baby greens in a large salad bowl. Be sure they’re well-drained and crisp for the best texture.
- Add vegetables: Halve the cherry tomatoes, slice the cucumber into thin rounds, and add shredded carrots evenly over the greens.
- Include creamy elements: Dice the avocado just before adding it to prevent browning. Gently fold it in for a creamy contrast.
- Add sweet and crunchy layers: Sprinkle dried cranberries or pomegranate seeds for a touch of sweetness. Next, add the toasted walnuts or almonds for crunch.
- Optional cheese: If desired, crumble feta cheese on top for a tangy richness that complements the dressing.
Tossing the Salad
- Drizzle the signature tangy dressing evenly over the salad ingredients.
- Using salad servers or tongs, gently toss from the bottom up to coat every leaf and ingredient lightly. Avoid pressing or smashing to maintain fresh textures.
- Toss just enough to combine flavors without wilting the delicate greens or crushing crunchy nuts.
Serving Suggestions
- Serve the Erewhon Salad immediately for the freshest taste.
- Pair it with grilled chicken, roasted vegetables, or warm crusty bread for a complete meal.
- For an elegant presentation, serve in individual bowls and garnish with a lemon wedge or extra nuts.
| Component | Description | Quantity |
|---|---|---|
| Mixed Baby Greens | Base of the salad | 4 cups |
| Cherry Tomatoes | Halved, juicy bites | 1 cup |
| Cucumber | Thinly sliced | 1 medium |
| Shredded Carrots | Adds sweetness and texture | 1 cup |
| Avocado | Diced, creamy | 1 medium |
| Dried Cranberries or Pomegranate | Sweet bursts | 1/4 cup |
| Toasted Walnuts or Almonds | Crunchy nuts | 1/3 cup |
| Feta Cheese (optional) | Crumbled tanginess | 1/4 cup |
| Signature Dressing | Extra virgin olive oil, lemon juice, apple cider vinegar, honey or maple syrup, Dijon mustard, seasoning | Enough to drizzle evenly |
Storage Tips
To preserve the vibrant freshness and texture of the Erewhon Salad, we recommend following these storage guidelines carefully.
- Store the salad components separately: Keep the mixed baby greens, chopped vegetables, toasted nuts, and dried fruits in airtight containers or resealable bags. This prevents sogginess and maintains crispness.
- Keep the dressing in a separate container: Store the tangy dressing in a tightly sealed jar or bottle in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. Shake well before using.
- Avoid tossing the salad with dressing before storage: Dress the salad just before serving to ensure each bite remains crunchy and fresh.
- Refrigerate prepared salad promptly: If you assemble the salad and plan to eat it within a few hours, cover it tightly with plastic wrap or a lid and refrigerate immediately.
- Use avocado strategically: Add sliced or diced avocado fresh when serving. If preparing ahead, store avocado separately and squeeze a little lemon juice on it to prevent browning.
Recommended Storage Durations
| Item | Storage Method | Duration | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Mixed Baby Greens | Airtight container | 3-5 days | Keep dry; use paper towels to absorb moisture |
| Chopped Vegetables | Airtight container | 3-4 days | Store separately to maintain freshness |
| Toasted Nuts | Airtight container | 1-2 weeks | Keep in a cool dry place |
| Dried Cranberries / Pomegranate Seeds | Airtight container | 1-2 weeks | Store away from sunlight |
| Dressing | Sealed jar/bottle | Up to 5 days | Refrigerate and shake before use |
| Assembled Salad (undressed) | Sealed container | Up to 4 hours | Best eaten fresh for optimal texture |
Tip: For the best texture experience, toss the salad with the dressing and avocado only moments before serving. This technique keeps the crisp greens crunchy, the dressing flavorful, and the avocado fresh.
By following these storage tips, we ensure that every serving of our Erewhon Salad remains as delightful and vibrant as when it was first prepared.
Conclusion
Crafting the Erewhon Salad brings a refreshing burst of flavors and textures to any meal. With its balanced mix of fresh ingredients and a zesty dressing, it’s a versatile dish that fits perfectly into our busy lives.
By following simple prep and storage tips, we can enjoy this vibrant salad anytime without compromising its crispness or taste. Let’s make the Erewhon Salad a staple in our kitchens for a wholesome and satisfying dining experience.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Erewhon Salad?
Erewhon Salad is a fresh, nutritious salad inspired by a health-conscious grocery store. It combines crisp greens, juicy fruits, crunchy nuts, and a tangy dressing for a vibrant and satisfying meal.
What are the main ingredients in Erewhon Salad?
Key ingredients include mixed baby greens, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, shredded carrots, avocado, dried cranberries or pomegranate seeds, toasted walnuts or almonds, and optional feta cheese.
How do I make the dressing for Erewhon Salad?
The dressing consists of extra virgin olive oil, fresh lemon juice, apple cider vinegar, honey or maple syrup, Dijon mustard, and seasoning. Whisk these together until smooth.
What tools do I need to prepare Erewhon Salad?
You’ll need a large salad bowl, cutting board, sharp knife, measuring spoons and cups, a small mixing bowl for the dressing, and salad servers or tongs.
How should I prepare the vegetables for the salad?
Wash greens thoroughly, halve cherry tomatoes, slice cucumber, shred carrots, and cut avocado just before serving to avoid browning. This ensures fresh flavors and textures.
Can I store Erewhon Salad in advance?
Store salad ingredients separately in airtight containers and keep the dressing in the refrigerator. Toss salad with dressing only before serving to maintain freshness.
What makes Erewhon Salad suitable for different meals?
Its balance of fresh vegetables, fruits, nuts, and tangy dressing makes it versatile — perfect as a main dish, side, or paired with grilled meats or bread.
How do I prevent avocado from browning in the salad?
Add avocado last when assembling and only right before serving to keep it fresh and prevent browning.
How long can I keep the salad ingredients fresh?
Greens and vegetables can last 3-5 days refrigerated separately. Nuts and dried fruits stay fresh longer, and the dressing keeps well for up to a week.
Is Erewhon Salad healthy?
Yes, it is packed with vitamins, fiber, healthy fats, and antioxidants, making it a wholesome and nutritious meal option.