Indulge in a vibrant burst of flavors with our Dominican Republic Ensalada Verde. This refreshing salad captures the essence of the Caribbean with its medley of fresh greens, ripe avocado slices, juicy tomatoes, and crisp cucumber, all tossed in a zesty citrus vinaigrette. Sprinkled with hints of cilantro and accented with a touch of tangy queso fresco, this salad is a celebration of the lush bounty of the Dominican Republic. Perfect as a light lunch or a side dish to complement any meal, it's a tantalizing taste of paradise in every bite.

here's a simple recipe for Dominican Republic Ensalada Verde:

Ingredients:

• 4 cups mixed salad greens (such as lettuce, spinach, and arugula)
• 1 ripe avocado, sliced
• 1 large tomato, sliced
• 1 small cucumber, sliced
• 1/4 cup thinly sliced red onion
• 1/4 cup crumbled queso fresco or feta cheese
• 2 tablespoons chopped fresh cilantro (optional)
• Juice of 1 lime
• 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1- Wash and dry the mixed salad greens, avocado, tomato, and cucumber thoroughly.

2- In a large salad bowl, combine the mixed greens, avocado slices, tomato slices, cucumber slices, and thinly sliced red onion.

3- In a small bowl, whisk together the lime juice, extra virgin olive oil, salt, and pepper to make the dressing.

4- Drizzle the dressing over the salad and gently toss until everything is evenly coated.

5- Sprinkle the crumbled queso fresco or feta cheese over the salad.

6- If using, garnish the salad with chopped fresh cilantro for added flavor and freshness.

7- Serve immediately as a side dish to accompany your favorite Dominican Republic-inspired meal, or enjoy it on its own as a light and refreshing salad.

Enjoy your Dominican Republic Ensalada Verde!

Nutritional Values:

Here are approximate nutritional values for the ingredients in the Dominican Republic Ensalada Verde recipe:

Mixed salad greens (4 cups):

• Calories: 20
• Total Fat: 0.3g
• Carbohydrates: 3.8g
• Fiber: 2.1g
• Protein: 2.2g

benefits:

• Rich source of vitamins A, C, and K.
• High in antioxidants and fiber, promoting digestive health and reducing inflammation.
• Low in calories, making them ideal for weight management.

Avocado (1 medium):

• Calories: 234
• Total Fat: 21.4g
• Carbohydrates: 12.5g
• Fiber: 9.2g
• Protein: 2.9g

benefits:

• Loaded with heart-healthy monounsaturated fats, which may help lower cholesterol levels.
• High in potassium, which supports healthy blood pressure levels.
• Contains fiber, promoting digestion and aiding in satiety.

Tomato (1 large):

• Calories: 33
• Total Fat: 0.4g
• Carbohydrates: 7g
• Fiber: 2.2g
• Protein: 1.6g

benefits:

• Excellent source of vitamin C, promoting immune function and skin health.
• Rich in lycopene, an antioxidant linked to reducing the risk of certain cancers and heart disease.
• Low in calories and high in water content, aiding in hydration and weight management.

Cucumber (1 small):

• Calories: 16
• Total Fat: 0.2g
• Carbohydrates: 3.8g
• Fiber: 0.5g
• Protein: 0.8g

benefits:

• High water content helps keep you hydrated and promotes healthy skin.
• Contains antioxidants and anti-inflammatory compounds, supporting overall health.
• Low in calories and carbohydrates, making it a great addition to weight-loss diets.

Red onion (1/4 cup thinly sliced):

• Calories: 16
• Total Fat: 0.1g
• Carbohydrates: 3.7g
• Fiber: 0.7g
• Protein: 0.6g

benefits:

• Contains quercetin, a flavonoid with antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties.
• May help reduce the risk of chronic diseases, including heart disease and certain cancers.
• Provides fiber, which supports digestive health and promotes feelings of fullness.

Queso fresco or feta cheese (1/4 cup crumbled):

• Calories: 100-120 (depending on type)
• Total Fat: 8-10g (depending on type)
• Carbohydrates: 1-2g (depending on type)
• Protein: 6-8g (depending on type)

benefits:

• Good source of calcium and protein, important for bone health and muscle function.
• Provides essential vitamins and minerals, including vitamin B12 and phosphorus.
• Adds flavor and texture to dishes, enhancing their overall appeal.

Lime juice (Juice of 1 lime):

• Calories: 8
• Total Fat: 0.1g
• Carbohydrates: 2.7g
• Fiber: 0.2g
• Protein: 0.2g

benefits:

• Excellent source of vitamin C, supporting immune function and collagen production.
• Contains antioxidants that may help protect against chronic diseases and oxidative stress.
• Adds tangy flavor to dishes and may aid in digestion.

Extra virgin olive oil (2 tablespoons):

• Calories: 239
• Total Fat: 27g
• Carbohydrates: 0g
• Fiber: 0g
• Protein: 0g

benefits:

• Rich in monounsaturated fats and antioxidants, promoting heart health and reducing inflammation.
• Contains oleic acid, which may help improve cholesterol levels and lower blood pressure.
• Provides vitamin E, an essential nutrient with antioxidant properties.

These values are approximate and may vary based on factors such as the specific variety of ingredients used and any added seasonings or dressings.