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Sunlite Salad

Sunlite Salad

The Sunlite Salad is a celebration of freshness and color. Crisp Romaine lettuce serves as the foundation, delivering a refreshing crunch and mild flavor. Roasted golden beets add gentle sweetness and vibrant color. Juicy cherry tomatoes bring a burst of brightness to every bite. Creamy goat cheese blends smoothly with the fresh greens, while toasted almonds give a delicate, nutty crunch. Tender microgreens and the subtle onion flavor of chives provide an aromatic lift that makes each forkful lively and satisfying.
This salad is designed to showcase simple, high-quality ingredients and their natural flavors. Zesty Lemon Chive Vinaigrette pairs beautifully with the Romaine, highlighting the salad’s freshness. The creamy goat cheese and almonds create a satisfying texture contrast. With each bite, you will enjoy layers of flavor. Earthy beets, sweet tomatoes, tangy cheese, and fragrant herbs combine for a meal that is both nourishing and visually appealing. Serve this salad as a vibrant main course or pair it with your favorite grilled chicken or fish for a heartier meal.
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Prep Time 12 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Total Time 24 minutes
Servings: 1
Course: Salad
Calories: 381
Ingredients Equipment Instructions Notes

Ingredients
  

  • cups Romaine lettuce washed and chopped
  • 2 tablespoons fresh chives finely sliced
  • 1/2 cup cooked or roasted golden beet diced (about 1 small beet)
  • 6 cherry tomatoes halved
  • 1/4 cup goat cheese crumbled
  • 2 tablespoons toasted sliced almonds
  • 1 tablespoons microgreens (such as radish or sunflower)
  • 2 teaspoons extra-virgin olive oil (for roasting beet)
  • Pinch sea salt and pepper (to taste)
  • 2 tablespoons Zesty Lemon Chive Vinaigrette (or dressing of choice)

Equipment

  • Chef’s knife
  • Cutting Board
  • Small baking sheet
  • Mixing bowls
  • Tongs
  • Salad spinner (optional)

Instructions
 

  1. Preheat the oven to 400°F. Toss the diced golden beet with olive oil, sea salt, and pepper. Roast for 10 minutes, or until tender and caramelized. Let cool slightly.
  2. Place the chopped Romaine in a large salad bowl. Add the fresh chives and toss gently to combine.
  3. Scatter the roasted beet, cherry tomato halves, and microgreens over the greens.
  4. Sprinkle with toasted almonds and crumble goat cheese on top.
  5. Drizzle the salad with Zesty Lemon Chive Vinaigrette. Toss gently with tongs until just combined.
  6. Season with additional salt and pepper if needed. Serve immediately.

Notes

Chives offer a fresh, mild onion flavor that lifts the entire salad and complements the natural crispness of Romaine. This delicate herb adds aroma and a subtle zest, making each bite livelier. Chives are best added just before serving. Their essential oils are responsible for the herb’s signature fragrance and are most pronounced when freshly sliced. Their gentle flavor makes them a perfect match for tangy goat cheese, sweet beets, and bright vinaigrettes.
Beyond their culinary appeal, chives are packed with nutrients. They are especially high in vitamin K, which is important for bone health and proper blood clotting. Chives also provide vitamin A and vitamin C. These nutrients are essential for immune support, skin health, and vision. In addition, chives contain the antioxidant allicin. This sulfur compound gives many allium vegetables their healthful reputation. Research published in Phytotherapy Research (2022) shows that allicin may help lower blood pressure and cholesterol, which contributes to better heart health. The presence of flavonoids and other antioxidants in chives is linked to reduced inflammation and protection against cell damage caused by free radicals. According to a study in the Journal of Food Science and Technology (2016), regular consumption of chives and other allium vegetables may offer benefits for cardiovascular health and overall wellness. Combining chives with a range of salad ingredients such as leafy greens, beets, nuts, and cheese provides a balance of textures, nutrients, and satisfying flavors. This salad delivers protein, healthy fats, fiber, vitamins, and minerals in every bite. Enjoying herbs like chives as part of your diet not only enhances flavor but also supports long-term health. This makes the Sunlite Salada delicious and nourishing choice for any occasion.