Diced salad featuring feta cheese, lime, and fresh mint.

A Vibrant Chopped Salad with Feta, Lime, Mint, and Sunflower Seeds

Discover a refreshing twist on salad making that’s not only colorful but also packed with flavor. This Chopped Salad with Feta, Lime, Mint, and Sunflower Seeds combines an array of crunchy vegetables that will tantalize your taste buds. It's the perfect accompaniment for any meal or a light dish on its own!

Cooking Time

Approximately 15 minutes for preparation and assembly.

Ingredient List

• 3 cups assorted crunchy vegetables
• 1/2 cup (2 ounces) crumbled feta, queso fresco, or ricotta salata
• 2 scallions, finely chopped
• 1/3 cup toasted sunflower seeds (salted or unsalted)
• 2 tablespoons fresh lime juice
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1/4 teaspoon kosher salt, or to taste
• 1/4 teaspoon chili powder or a mix of your favorite spices (like cumin or cayenne)
• Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
• 1 to 2 tablespoons fresh mint leaves, sliced thinly

Preparation Steps

Start with a delightful mixture of vegetables, such as halved and thinly sliced radishes, cooked and cooled green and yellow beans, and sliced Kirby cucumbers. Feel free to personalize your salad with additional crunchy options like bell peppers, carrots, sweet corn, or any veggies you adore. For a more filling dish, consider adding 1 to 2 cups of shredded lettuce or your favorite grains like quinoa or farro, alongside black beans for that Southwestern flair. Remember to increase the dressing quantity accordingly to ensure every bite is rich in flavor.

In a medium bowl, combine the chopped vegetables, feta cheese, scallions, sunflower seeds, and mint leaves. In a separate small bowl, whisk together lime juice, olive oil, salt, your chosen spice blend, and black pepper. Pour this dressing over the salad mixture and toss gently until all ingredients are well-coated. Taste and adjust seasoning with more salt and pepper as needed. Finish with a sprinkle of mint leaves and enjoy the crunchy goodness of your vibrant salad!