Marinated Vegetable Salad

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This salad is full of texture and flavor with the perfect combination of crunchy vegetables and creamy pepper jack cheese. The tangy and savory dressing brings everything together, giving the salad a bold, satisfying taste. It’s quick to prepare and can be marinated in advance, making it a great choice for meal prep or gatherings.

Ingredients

For the salad:

• 1 cherry tomatoes, halved
• 1 1/2 cups chopped carrots
• 1 yellow pepper, chopped
• 1 1/2 cups broccoli florets
• 1/2 bunch asparagus, cut into 1/2-3/4″ pieces
• 1/2 cup diced red onion
• 1 1/2 cups chopped red cabbage
• 1 1/2 cups cauliflower florets
• 8 ounces pepper jack cheese, cubed

For the dressing:

• 1/2 cup olive oil
• 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
• 1 tablespoon dijon or deli mustard
• 1 1/2 teaspoon lemon juice
• 1 tablespoon ranch seasoning
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

1. In a large bowl, combine the cherry tomatoes, carrots, yellow pepper, broccoli, asparagus, red onion, red cabbage, cauliflower, and cubed pepper jack cheese.
2. In a separate small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, apple cider vinegar, dijon mustard, lemon juice, ranch seasoning, salt, and pepper until fully combined.
3. Pour the dressing over the vegetable mixture and toss well to ensure all the ingredients are evenly coated.
4. Cover the salad and refrigerate for at least 1 hour, allowing the flavors to marinate and the vegetables to soften slightly.
5. Toss the salad again just before serving and enjoy!

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 6-8
• Preparation time: 15 minutes
• Marination time: 1 hour (or more)
• Total time: 1 hour 15 minutes

Variations

• If you prefer a spicier salad, use a sharp cheese like jalapeño cheddar or add a few diced jalapeños to the mix.
• Add some fresh herbs like parsley, cilantro, or dill for extra freshness.
• For a creamier dressing, mix in a couple of tablespoons of sour cream or Greek yogurt.
• You can switch up the vegetables based on what you have on hand—try adding cucumbers, zucchini, or even peas.
• Make it gluten-free by ensuring the ranch seasoning and mustard are gluten-free, or use a gluten-free ranch mix.

Storage/Reheating

• Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The salad is best enjoyed cold and after marinating, as the flavors have time to meld.
• There’s no need to reheat the salad—it’s a great dish to enjoy cold.

FAQs

1. Can I make this salad ahead of time?

Yes, this salad actually tastes even better after marinating for a few hours or overnight. The flavors continue to develop, making it a perfect dish to prepare in advance.

2. Can I use a different type of cheese?

Yes, feel free to substitute pepper jack with another cheese, such as sharp cheddar, mozzarella, or Monterey Jack.

3. How long can I store the marinated vegetable salad?

The salad can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. However, after a few days, the vegetables may start to lose some of their crunch.

4. Can I add protein to this salad?

Yes! You can add grilled chicken, shrimp, or chickpeas for added protein to make this salad more filling.

5. Can I use a different type of vinegar?

You can substitute apple cider vinegar with white wine vinegar or red wine vinegar, though apple cider vinegar gives it a unique tang.

6. Is there a way to make this salad spicier?

Yes, you can add a little bit of chili flakes or use a spicier cheese like jalapeño cheddar to add some heat.

7. Can I use pre-cut vegetables for this recipe?

Absolutely! Pre-cut vegetables can save time and still yield a great salad, especially if you’re in a rush.

8. Can I make this salad without the cheese?

Yes, the salad will still be delicious without the cheese. You could also substitute it with a dairy-free alternative if preferred.

9. How can I make this salad vegan?

To make it vegan, simply omit the pepper jack cheese or substitute it with a plant-based cheese alternative and ensure the ranch seasoning is dairy-free.

10. Can I use a different dressing?

If you prefer, you can use a store-bought vinaigrette or a creamy dressing of your choice. Just make sure to toss it in a way that coats all the vegetables.

Conclusion

The Marinated Vegetable Salad is a fresh, colorful, and flavor-packed dish that’s perfect for any occasion. With a blend of crunchy vegetables, creamy cheese, and a tangy dressing, it’s a salad that’s sure to impress. Make it ahead of time for easy meal prep, or serve it as a side to your favorite main dish. Either way, it’s a delicious and nutritious addition to your meal!

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