Refreshing Summer Salad

I absolutely love the massive increase in juicy succulent produce that comes with summer and how nature naturally creates that which allows us to stay more hydrated and sated during the warmer months. I could have salads every day if it were possible, and I try to hold on to it till it’s absolutely too cold to try. Here’s a plate featuring all my favourites summer flavours - the sharp bite of wild rocket, the mild melon, the rich and juicy strawberry, and refreshing mint. Add some exciting toppings and this can take your day from normal to brilliant in less than 15 minutes!

Refreshing Summer Salad

Ingredients

Salad:

  • 1/2 honeydew melon, diced

  • 8-10 strawberries, diced

  • 12-15 maple candied walnuts

  • 2 tbsp soft goat’s cheese

  • Handful wild rocket leaves

  • 2 sprigs mint leaves

Dressing:

  • 1 tbsp olive oil

  • Juice of 1/2 lemon

  • Salt + Pepper

Maple Candied Walnuts:

  • 12-15 walnuts

  • 1 tbsp maple syrup

  • 1 tbsp butter

Method of Preparation

  1. Make the candied walnuts - to a small saucepan on low heat, add the butter. As it melts, add the maple syrup and walnuts. Gently stir for a couple of minutes as nuts are coated completely and no excess syrup remains. Turn off the heat. Make sure that the syrup doesn’t catch or burn.

  2. Whisk the ingredients for the dressing together, set aside.

  3. Add the wild rocket leaves + mint + melon + strawberries to a large mixing bowl. Add the dressing and toss so everything is evenly coated.

  4. Transfer the salad to two plates. Top with the candied nuts + goat’s cheese.

  5. And that’s it!