_______
#### Ingredients:
– 4 cups mixed salad greens (such as spinach, arugula, and mixed lettuces)
– 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
– 1 cucumber, thinly sliced
– 1 bell pepper, thinly sliced
– 1/2 red onion, thinly sliced
– 1/4 cup olives (black or green), pitted
– 1/4 cup feta cheese, crumbled (optional)
– Salt and pepper to taste
#### For the Wine Sauce:
– 1/2 cup dry white wine
– 2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar
– 1 tablespoon honey or maple syrup
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
– 1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
1. **Prepare the Salad:**
– Wash and dry all the vegetables thoroughly.
– In a large salad bowl, combine the mixed salad greens, cherry tomatoes, cucumber slices, bell pepper slices, red onion slices, and olives.
– Toss gently to mix the vegetables evenly.
2. **Make the Wine Sauce:**
– In a small saucepan, combine the white wine, balsamic vinegar, honey or maple syrup, minced garlic, and Dijon mustard.
– Place the saucepan over medium heat and bring the mixture to a simmer.
– Let it simmer for about 5-7 minutes or until the sauce has reduced slightly and thickened.
– Remove the saucepan from heat and let the sauce cool for a few minutes.
– Gradually whisk in the extra virgin olive oil until the sauce is well combined.
– Season with salt and pepper according to your taste.
3. **Assemble the Salad:**
– Drizzle the wine sauce over the prepared salad, starting with a small amount and adding more as desired.
– Toss the salad gently to coat the vegetables evenly with the sauce.
– Sprinkle crumbled feta cheese (if using) over the top of the salad.
– Season with additional salt and pepper if needed.
4. **Serve:**
– Divide the salad into individual serving plates or bowls.
– Optionally, garnish with additional fresh herbs or a drizzle of balsamic glaze.
– Serve immediately as a refreshing appetizer or side dish.
Enjoy your delicious Vegetable Salad with Wine Sauce!