Belarus Spring Salad is a refreshing, nutrient-rich dish that epitomizes the essence of spring. Bursting with vibrant colors and crisp textures, this salad combines fresh vegetables and aromatic herbs to create a light yet satisfying meal. Ideal as a standalone lunch or a side dish for dinner, it offers a healthful way to enjoy seasonal produce.

Belarusian cuisine often features fresh, simple ingredients that highlight the natural flavors of the produce. Belarus Spring Salad reflects this tradition, showcasing the local preference for light, wholesome dishes that celebrate the arrival of warmer weather. The use of ingredients like cucumber, cherry tomatoes, and fresh herbs is a nod to the region's abundant agriculture and seasonal eating habits.

Ingredients:

1. 1 large cucumber, chopped

2. 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved

3. 1 large carrot, peeled and grated

4. 1 small red onion, thinly sliced

5. 1/4 cup chopped fresh dill

6. 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley

7. 1/4 cup chopped fresh chives

8. 1/4 cup olive oil

9. 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar

10. Salt and pepper to taste

Method:

1. Wash and prepare all vegetables. Peel and grate the carrot. Slice the red onion thinly. Chop the cucumber into bite-sized pieces and halve the cherry tomatoes.

2. In a large bowl, combine the cucumber, cherry tomatoes, grated carrot, and red onion.

3. Add the fresh dill, parsley, and chives to the bowl and mix well.

4. In a separate bowl, whisk together the olive oil and apple cider vinegar. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

5. Pour the dressing over the salad and toss to combine.

6. Serve chilled or at room temperature.

Notes:

- Customize your salad by adding or substituting bell peppers, radishes, or lettuce.

- For extra crunch, consider adding croutons, nuts, or seeds.

Nutrition Value:

1. 1 large cucumber, chopped

  - Calories: 45

  - Carbohydrates: 11g

  - Protein: 2g

  - Fat: 0g

  - Sodium: 2mg

  - Cholesterol: 0mg

  - Vitamins: Vitamin K (16% DV), Vitamin C (6% DV)

  - Minerals: Potassium (6% DV), Magnesium (4% DV)

  - Nutritional Benefit: High in water and fiber; supports hydration and digestion.

2. 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved

  - Calories: 27

  - Carbohydrates: 6g

  - Protein: 1g

  - Fat: 0g

  - Sodium: 6mg

  - Cholesterol: 0mg

  - Vitamins: Vitamin C (20% DV), Vitamin A (15% DV)

  - Minerals: Potassium (8% DV), Folate (5% DV)

  - Nutritional Benefit: Rich in antioxidants and vitamin C; supports immune health and skin.

3. 1 large carrot, peeled and grated

  - Calories: 30

  - Carbohydrates: 7g

  - Protein: 1g

  - Fat: 0g

  - Sodium: 42mg

  - Cholesterol: 0mg

  - Vitamins: Vitamin A (184% DV), Vitamin K (9% DV)

  - Minerals: Potassium (7% DV), Calcium (3% DV)

  - Nutritional Benefit: High in beta-carotene; supports vision health and immune function.

4. 1 small red onion, thinly sliced

  - Calories: 40

  - Carbohydrates: 9g

  - Protein: 1g

  - Fat: 0g

  - Sodium: 3mg

  - Cholesterol: 0mg

  - Vitamins: Vitamin C (8% DV), Vitamin B6 (5% DV)

  - Minerals: Potassium (4% DV), Manganese (5% DV)

  - Nutritional Benefit: Contains antioxidants; supports heart health and provides anti-inflammatory effects.

5. 1/4 cup chopped fresh dill

  - Calories: 4

  - Carbohydrates: 1g

  - Protein: 0g

  - Fat: 0g

  - Sodium: 1mg

  - Cholesterol: 0mg

  - Vitamins: Vitamin C (7% DV), Vitamin A (4% DV)

  - Minerals: Calcium (2% DV), Iron (2% DV)

  - Nutritional Benefit: Rich in antioxidants; supports digestion and has anti-inflammatory properties.

6. 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley

  - Calories: 5

  - Carbohydrates: 1g

  - Protein: 0g

  - Fat: 0g

  - Sodium: 5mg

  - Cholesterol: 0mg

  - Vitamins: Vitamin K (89% DV), Vitamin C (10% DV)

  - Minerals: Iron (8% DV), Calcium (2% DV)

  - Nutritional Benefit: High in vitamins K and C; supports bone health and immune function.

7. 1/4 cup chopped fresh chives

  - Calories: 3

  - Carbohydrates: 1g

  - Protein: 0g

  - Fat: 0g

  - Sodium: 2mg

  - Cholesterol: 0mg

  - Vitamins: Vitamin C (4% DV), Vitamin A (2% DV)

  - Minerals: Calcium (2% DV), Iron (2% DV)

  - Nutritional Benefit: Provides antioxidants and vitamins; supports digestive health and offers a mild diuretic effect.

8. 1/4 cup olive oil

  - Calories: 480

  - Carbohydrates: 0g

  - Protein: 0g

  - Fat: 54g

  - Sodium: 0mg

  - Cholesterol: 0mg

  - Vitamins: Vitamin E (15% DV), Vitamin K (8% DV)

  - Minerals: No significant minerals

  - Nutritional Benefit: Rich in healthy monounsaturated fats; supports heart health and has anti-inflammatory properties.

9. 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar

  - Calories: 6

  - Carbohydrates: 1g

  - Protein: 0g

  - Fat: 0g

  - Sodium: 1mg

  - Cholesterol: 0mg

  - Vitamins: No significant vitamins

  - Minerals: No significant minerals

  - Nutritional Benefit: May aid in digestion and regulate blood sugar levels.

10. Salt and pepper to taste

  - Calories: Negligible

  - Carbohydrates: Negligible

  - Protein: Negligible

  - Fat: Negligible

  - Sodium: Varies (salt)

  - Cholesterol: 0mg

  - Vitamins: No significant vitamins

  - Minerals: Sodium (salt)

  - Nutritional Benefit: Enhances flavor; salt should be used in moderation.