Adding a grilled twist to a refreshing and nutritious salad can bring out a whole new dimension of flavors. This grilled mushroom and greens salad with sesame seeds is not just a feast for the eyes but a treat for the taste buds as well.

Packed with vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants, this salad is not only delicious but also incredibly healthy. Whether you are a vegetarian looking for a new and exciting recipe or a food enthusiast searching for a vibrant and satisfying dish, this grilled mushroom and greens salad is the perfect choice for you.

Ingredients:

For the salad:.

8 large button mushrooms
6 cups mixed greens (spinach, arugula, and lettuce)
1 small red onion, thinly sliced
1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
1 avocado, sliced
1/4 cup sesame seeds

For the marinade:.

2 tablespoons olive oil
2 tablespoons soy sauce
2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar
2 garlic cloves, minced
1 tablespoon honey
1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Preheat the grill to medium-high heat.

2. Clean the mushrooms and remove the stems.

3. In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, soy sauce, balsamic vinegar, minced garlic, honey, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper.

4. Place the mushrooms in a shallow dish and pour the marinade over them. Let them marinate for about 15 minutes, turning occasionally.

5. In the meantime, prepare the mixed greens by washing and drying them thoroughly.

6. Slice the red onion, halve the cherry tomatoes, and slice the avocado.

7. Heat the grill pan or grill tray and lightly oil it to prevent sticking.

8. Remove the mushrooms from the marinade and place them on the grill. Grill for about 5 minutes on each side or until they are tender and slightly charred.

9. While the mushrooms are grilling, toast the sesame seeds in a dry skillet over medium heat until golden brown. Set them aside.

10. Once the mushrooms are done, remove them from the grill and let them cool slightly.

11. Slice the grilled mushrooms into thin slices.

12. In a large salad bowl, combine the mixed greens, sliced mushrooms, red onion, cherry tomatoes, avocado, and toasted sesame seeds.

13. Drizzle the remaining marinade from the mushrooms over the salad.

14. Toss the salad gently to coat the ingredients with the dressing.

15. Serve immediately and enjoy!.

Health Benefits:

This grilled mushroom and greens salad is not just a delight for your taste buds but also a nutritional powerhouse. Let’s take a closer look at the health benefits of its key ingredients:.

Mushrooms:

Mushrooms are an excellent source of nutrients. They are low in calories and high in fiber, making them a perfect choice for weight management. Mushrooms are also packed with vitamins and minerals, including B vitamins, selenium, copper, and potassium.

They are known for their immune-boosting properties and their potential to lower the risk of certain cancers.

Mixed Greens:

The mixed greens in this salad provide an array of vitamins and minerals. Spinach, arugula, and lettuce are all loaded with vitamin K, which is essential for bone health. They also contain vitamin C, vitamin A, folate, and iron.

These greens are rich in antioxidants, which help protect the body against oxidative stress and reduce the risk of chronic diseases.

Red Onion:

Red onions not only add a touch of color and flavor to the salad but also offer numerous health benefits. They are rich in antioxidants and anti-inflammatory compounds.

Red onions contain quercetin, a flavonoid that has been linked to heart health, reduced inflammation, and potential anticancer effects. They also provide a good amount of fiber and are low in calories.

Cherry Tomatoes:

Cherry tomatoes are a great source of vitamins A and C, which are essential for a healthy immune system.

These vibrant and juicy little tomatoes are also rich in lycopene, an antioxidant known for its potential to reduce the risk of certain cancers and improve heart health. They add a burst of sweetness and freshness to the salad.

Avocado:

Avocado is a true superfood that provides healthy monounsaturated fats, fiber, and an array of vitamins and minerals. It is high in potassium, which helps regulate blood pressure, and vitamin E, which supports healthy skin and boosts the immune system.

Avocado adds a creamy texture and nutty flavor to the salad.

Sesame Seeds:

Sesame seeds are a rich source of healthy fats, protein, and fiber. They are packed with essential minerals like calcium, iron, magnesium, and zinc.

Sesame seeds are known for their high antioxidant content, which helps fight inflammation and protect against chronic diseases. They add a delightful crunch and nutty taste to the salad.