Mes amis, welcome to my kitchen, where we take the art of salad to divine heights—keto-friendly, of course. Today, I shall prepare for you a salad so exquisite, so effortlessly chic, that even the most discerning Parisian would nod in approval. We shall pair this creation with a dressing so luxurious it will dance upon your palate like a symphony. And because we aim to impress, we’ll complement our masterpiece with a delightful keto crouton twist.
Let us begin.
L’Art de la Salade: The Salad
A symphony of greens and textures, this salad is the epitome of simplicity meeting indulgence.
Ingredients (Serves 2):
• Fresh baby spinach (100g): Tender and vibrant, the foundation of our creation.
• Arugula (50g): For a peppery je ne sais quoi.
• Avocado (1 medium): Creamy and rich, the king of keto.
• Radishes (3 small): Sliced thinly, for crunch and color.
• Pecans (30g): Lightly toasted, a nutty grace note.
• Goat cheese (40g): Crumbled, because why settle for ordinary?
• Smoked salmon (50g): Delicate ribbons of luxury.
La Sauce de Rêve: The Dressing
A dressing so decadent, it elevates our salad to haute cuisine.
Ingredients:
• Olive oil (3 tbsp): Extra virgin, of course. The lifeblood of flavor.
• Fresh lemon juice (1 tbsp): To cut through richness with a zing.
• Dijon mustard (1 tsp): A nod to French tradition.
• Shallot (1 small, finely minced): Sweet and delicate.
• Apple cider vinegar (1 tsp): For complexity.
• Salt & freshly cracked black pepper: To taste.
• Stevia or erythritol (a pinch): Just a whisper of sweetness.
Method:
1. In a small bowl, whisk together the lemon juice, Dijon mustard, and apple cider vinegar.
2. Slowly drizzle in the olive oil while whisking vigorously, creating a creamy emulsion.
3. Stir in the minced shallot, salt, pepper, and sweetener. Taste, adjust, and revel in its perfection.
Les Croûtons Keto: The Croutons (Without Bread)
Ah, the humble crouton. But here, my friends, we shall reinvent it—keto-style.
Ingredients:
• Parmesan cheese (50g, grated): Our secret weapon.
• Italian seasoning (1/2 tsp): For aromatic flair.
• Garlic powder (1/4 tsp): A kiss of boldness.
Method:
1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
3. Mix the Parmesan, Italian seasoning, and garlic powder in a bowl.
4. Spoon small mounds onto the baking sheet and flatten slightly.
5. Bake for 5-7 minutes, until golden and crisp. Let cool completely before using.
Assembly: The Grand Finale
1. Arrange the spinach and arugula artfully on a plate—think Monet painting a garden.
2. Layer the avocado slices, radishes, pecans, goat cheese, and smoked salmon with precision and flair.
3. Drizzle generously with the dressing.
4. Crown with your Parmesan croutons for that irresistible crunch.
To Serve
Pair this creation with sparkling water (a twist of lime, bien sûr) or a crisp, dry white wine if you’re indulging. Each bite is a dance of freshness, creaminess, and crunch.
Bon appétit, mes chers amis! Even on keto, elegance and indulgence can be yours.
