Sesame Herb Crouton Salad with Avocado and Lemon Sesame Vinaigrette Recipe
This vibrant and fresh salad features toasted ciabatta croutons, mixed greens, fresh herbs, and creamy avocado, all tossed in a zesty lemon sesame vinaigrette. It’s a perfect balance of textures and flavors, offering a delightful combination of crunchy, creamy, and tangy notes that make it an ideal light meal or side dish.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 12 minutes
- Total Time: 27 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Salad
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Mediterranean
Ingredients
For the Salad
- 2 cups torn ciabatta bread
- 1 clove garlic, grated
- 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
- 6 cups mixed salad greens
- 1 cup mixed fresh herbs (basil, dill, thyme)
- 1 cup grated parmesan cheese
- 3 tablespoons toasted sesame seeds
- 1–2 avocados, cubed or sliced
For the Lemon Sesame Vinaigrette
- 1/3 cup extra virgin olive oil
- 3 tablespoons toasted sesame oil
- 3 tablespoons lemon juice
- 3 tablespoons champagne vinegar
- 2 teaspoons Dijon mustard
- 2 teaspoons honey
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Chili flakes to taste
Instructions
- Prepare the Ciabatta Croutons: Preheat your oven to 425°F. In a mixing bowl, toss the torn ciabatta pieces with the grated garlic, a pinch of salt, and 2 tablespoons of extra virgin olive oil until evenly coated. Spread the bread pieces on a baking sheet and bake for 10 to 12 minutes, or until they are golden brown and toasted, stirring halfway through for even crispiness.
- Mix the Salad Base: In a large salad bowl, combine the 6 cups of mixed salad greens, 1 cup of mixed fresh herbs (basil, dill, thyme), the parmesan cheese, and the toasted sesame seeds. Add the freshly baked ciabatta croutons once they have cooled slightly.
- Make the Lemon Sesame Vinaigrette: In a jar with a tight-fitting lid, combine the extra virgin olive oil, toasted sesame oil, lemon juice, champagne vinegar, Dijon mustard, honey, garlic powder, salt, pepper, and chili flakes. Shake vigorously until the vinaigrette is fully emulsified. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
- Toss the Salad and Serve: Pour the vinaigrette over the salad mix and toss gently to coat all ingredients evenly. Top the salad with the sliced or cubed avocado. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Notes
- For a vegan option, omit the parmesan cheese or substitute it with a plant-based alternative.
- Status of the herbs can be adjusted based on preference; fresh herbs enhance the salad’s flavor significantly.
- Adjust the amount of chili flakes for your desired spice level.
- Toasting the sesame seeds before adding to the salad enhances their nutty flavor.
- This salad is best served fresh to enjoy the crispiness of the croutons and the creaminess of the avocado.