Balducci’s Crunchy Vegetable Salad Recipe Made Easy

Balducci’s Crunchy Vegetable Salad is a vibrant and refreshing dish that perfectly balances crisp textures with a light, tangy dressing. Whether you’re looking for a healthy side or a light lunch, this salad is a go-to recipe that bursts with flavor and nutrition.

Fresh vegetables, combined with a zesty homemade dressing, create a salad that’s not only delicious but also visually appealing. It’s easy to prepare, making it a fantastic choice for busy weeknights or casual gatherings with friends and family.

This salad highlights the beauty of simple, wholesome ingredients, allowing each vegetable’s natural crunch and flavor to shine through. Plus, it’s versatile enough to accommodate seasonal vegetables or your personal favorites.

If you love salads that are both satisfying and nourishing, you’re going to adore this recipe.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Balducci’s Crunchy Vegetable Salad stands out for its delightful texture and fresh taste. The combination of crisp vegetables like celery, carrots, and bell peppers ensures every bite is packed with crunch.

The homemade dressing, made with a hint of lemon and mustard, adds a tangy zing without overpowering the natural flavors.

This salad is exceptionally easy to make, requiring minimal prep time and no cooking, which means you can have it ready in under 20 minutes. It’s also incredibly versatile — perfect as a side dish, a light main, or even a healthy snack.

The recipe is packed with vitamins, fiber, and antioxidants, making it a nutritious addition to any meal.

If you enjoy exploring more healthy and delightful dishes, check out these recipes: Best Vegan Salad Bowl Recipes for Fresh Healthy Meals, Cheap Vegetarian Recipes For Families Everyone Will Love, and Vegan Salad Dressing Recipe for Fresh and Flavorful Meals.

Ingredients

• 2 cups celery, thinly sliced
• 1 cup carrots, shredded or julienned
• 1 cup red bell pepper, diced
• 1 cup green bell pepper, diced
• 1/2 cup red onion, thinly sliced
• 1/2 cup cucumber, diced (optional for extra crunch)
• 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
• 1/4 cup toasted almonds, slivered or chopped
• 1/4 cup dried cranberries or raisins
• For the dressing:
• 3 tablespoons olive oil
• 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
• 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
• 1 teaspoon honey or maple syrup
• Salt and pepper to taste

Equipment

• Sharp chef’s knife
• Cutting board
• Large mixing bowl
• Small bowl for dressing
• Whisk or fork
• Measuring spoons and cups
• Salad serving bowl or platter

Instructions

1. Prepare the vegetables: Wash all vegetables thoroughly. Thinly slice the celery and red onion. Julienne or shred the carrots, and dice the red and green bell peppers and cucumber.
2. Toast the almonds: In a dry skillet over medium heat, toast the slivered almonds for 2-3 minutes until golden and fragrant. Stir frequently to avoid burning. Set aside to cool.
3. Make the dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, lemon juice, Dijon mustard, honey (or maple syrup), salt, and pepper. Adjust seasoning to taste.
4. Combine the salad: In a large mixing bowl, add all the prepared vegetables, toasted almonds, dried cranberries, and chopped parsley.
5. Toss with dressing: Pour the dressing over the salad and gently toss until everything is evenly coated. Be careful not to bruise the vegetables.
6. Chill and serve: For best flavor, refrigerate the salad for at least 15 minutes before serving to allow the flavors to meld together.
7. Enjoy: Serve chilled or at room temperature as a refreshing side or light meal.

Tips & Variations

Tip: To keep the salad extra crunchy, add the dressing just before serving rather than letting it sit too long.

Variation: Swap out almonds for walnuts or pecans for a different nutty flavor. You can also add shredded cabbage or snap peas for additional texture.

Make it vegan: Use maple syrup instead of honey in the dressing.

Boost protein: Add cooked chickpeas or quinoa to turn this salad into a more substantial meal.

Nutrition Facts

Serving Suggestions

This crunchy vegetable salad pairs wonderfully with a variety of dishes. It’s a perfect complement to grilled proteins like chicken or fish, and it also works well alongside vegetarian mains such as Best Vegetarian Recipes No Dairy for Delicious Meals or Ancient Grains Vegetarian Recipes for Healthy Delicious Meals.

For a light lunch, serve the salad with whole grain bread or pita, or stuff it into wraps for a crunchy veggie-packed meal on the go. It also shines when served chilled during warm weather as a refreshing side to barbecue dishes.

Conclusion

Balducci’s Crunchy Vegetable Salad is a shining example of how simple, fresh ingredients can come together to create a dish that’s both delightful and nutritious. Its combination of crisp vegetables, tangy dressing, and crunchy nuts makes it a satisfying salad that’s perfect any time of year.

Whether you’re looking for a quick side dish or a wholesome meal, this recipe ticks all the boxes.

Its ease of preparation and versatility make it a staple for health-conscious cooks. Plus, with endless possibilities for customization, you can tailor it to your taste or what’s in season.

Don’t forget to explore other fantastic recipes like A to Z Vegetarian Recipes for Every Meal and Occasion to keep your meals exciting and wholesome. Enjoy your crunchy, colorful salad adventure!

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