Salad Ingredients:

• 1 cup sunflower microgreens

• 1 cup pea shoot microgreens

• 1 cup broccoli microgreens

• 1 cup radish microgreens

• 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved

• 1/2 cucumber, thinly sliced

• 1/4 red onion, thinly sliced

• 1/4 cup toasted pumpkin seeds (pepitas)

• 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese (optional)

• 1/4 cup dried cranberries or raisins (optional)

• Salt and pepper to taste

Lemon Vinaigrette Dressing:

• 3 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil

• 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice

• 1 teaspoon honey or maple syrup (for sweetness)

• 1 clove garlic, minced

• 1/2 teaspoon Dijon mustard

• Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Microgreens:

• Wash and thoroughly dry the microgreens (sunflower, pea shoot, broccoli, and radish) using a salad spinner or clean kitchen towels. Combine them in a large salad bowl.

2. Add Vegetables and Extras:

• To the microgreens, add the halved cherry tomatoes, sliced cucumber, and thinly sliced red onion. If you're using additional toppings, such as crumbled feta and dried cranberries, sprinkle them in now.

3. Toast the Pumpkin Seeds:

• In a small skillet, toast the pumpkin seeds over medium heat until they become fragrant and slightly browned. This should take about 3-4 minutes. Once toasted, remove from heat and set them aside to cool.

4. Make the Lemon Vinaigrette:

• In a small bowl, whisk together the extra-virgin olive oil, freshly squeezed lemon juice, honey (or maple syrup), minced garlic, Dijon mustard, and a pinch of salt and freshly ground black pepper. Adjust the dressing to your liking, adding more honey or lemon juice if necessary.

5. Toss and Serve:

• Drizzle your tangy lemon vinaigrette over the salad, ensuring an even coating over the microgreens and other ingredients. Gently toss the salad to mix well and season with a touch of salt and pepper.

6. Top with Toasted Pumpkin Seeds:

• For a nutty crunch, sprinkle the toasted pumpkin seeds over the salad before serving.

7. Serve and Relish:

• Share your Vibrant Microgreen Salad among plates and serve immediately. This salad is a nutritional powerhouse, making it perfect as a health-boosting meal or a refreshing side dish.

Packed with the wholesome goodness of sunflower, pea, broccoli, and radish microgreens, this salad offers a burst of flavors and textures. Paired with the tangy lemon vinaigrette, every bite promises a delightful taste experience. Enjoy!