Mushroom salad

Here’s a simple and delicious recipe for a mushroom salad that’s perfect as a side dish or a light meal:

Mushroom Salad Recipe

Ingredients:

  • 400 g (about 14 oz) fresh mushrooms (e.g., button, cremini, or a mix)
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar (or lemon juice)
  • 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 1 small red onion, thinly sliced
  • 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
  • 1 cup fresh spinach or arugula
  • Fresh herbs (such as parsley or basil) for garnish
  • Optional: grated cheese (like Parmesan or feta) for topping

Instructions:

  1. Prepare the Mushrooms:

    • Clean the mushrooms with a damp cloth to remove any dirt. Slice them thinly.
  2. Make the Dressing:

    • In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, balsamic vinegar (or lemon juice), Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper. Adjust the seasoning to your taste.
  3. Combine the Salad Ingredients:

    • In a large bowl, combine the sliced mushrooms, red onion, and cherry tomatoes. Drizzle the dressing over the salad and toss gently to coat all the ingredients evenly.
  4. Add Greens:

    • Add the fresh spinach or arugula to the bowl and toss lightly again, being careful not to crush the greens.
  5. Serve:

    • Transfer the salad to a serving dish and garnish with fresh herbs and, if desired, sprinkle with grated cheese.
  6. Chill (Optional):

    • For a refreshing touch, you can let the salad sit in the refrigerator for about 15-30 minutes before serving to allow the flavors to meld.

Tips:

  • Add-Ins: Feel free to add other ingredients like sliced bell peppers, cucumbers, or nuts (like walnuts or pine nuts) for extra crunch.
  • Flavor Boost: For an extra layer of flavor, you can sauté the mushrooms in a little olive oil before adding them to the salad. Just let them cool before mixing them with the other ingredients.
  • Vegan Option: Skip the cheese or use a plant-based alternative to keep the salad vegan.

Enjoy this light and flavorful mushroom salad as a perfect addition to any meal!