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Walnut Watercress Salad

Walnut Watercress Salad recipe image
This vibrant Vietnamese-inspired salad highlights the peppery bite of fresh watercress, balanced by the sweet crunch of water chestnuts and the rich, earthy depth of chopped walnuts. It&# 226;€™s a no-cook dish that relies on high-quality, fresh ingredients for maximum flavor. The texture is delightfully varied—tender leaves, crisp vegetables, and nutty crunches in every bite. Perfect for a light lunch, a refreshing side dish, or a healthy addition to a picnic spread. It comes together in minutes, making it an ideal choice for weeknight dinners or when you want something light yet satisfying. Serve it plain or dress lightly with a touch of sesame oil and lime for an extra kick.
Cuisine:
Courses:
Difficulty: Intermediate
Servings: 4
Calories: 2.8
Dietary: Diabetic, Gluten-free, Vegan, Vegetarian
Description
This vibrant Vietnamese-inspired salad highlights the peppery bite of fresh watercress, balanced by the sweet crunch of water chestnuts and the rich, earthy depth of chopped walnuts. It&# 226;€™s a no-cook dish that relies on high-quality, fresh ingredients for maximum flavor. The texture is delightfully varied—tender leaves, crisp vegetables, and nutty crunches in every bite. Perfect for a light lunch, a refreshing side dish, or a healthy addition to a picnic spread. It comes together in minutes, making it an ideal choice for weeknight dinners or when you want something light yet satisfying. Serve it plain or dress lightly with a touch of sesame oil and lime for an extra kick.
Ingredients
  • 1 bunch watercress, trimmed and roughly chopped
  • 1/2 cup water chestnuts, sliced
  • 2 tablespoon walnuts, chopped
Directions
  1. 1
    Rinse the watercress thoroughly under cold water and spin dry or pat dry with paper towels.
  2. 2
    Trim any tough stems from the watercress and roughly chop the leaves.
  3. 3
    Slice the water chestnuts if using whole canned ones, or drain and slice if pre-sliced.
  4. 4
    Chop the walnuts into small pieces.
  5. 5
    In a large salad bowl, combine the watercress, water chestnuts, and chopped walnuts.
  6. 6
    Toss gently to distribute the ingredients evenly.
  7. 7
    Serve immediately for best texture and flavor.

Nutrition Facts

Servings 4

Amount Per Serving
Calories 2.8kcal
% Daily Value *
Total Fat 0.0g0%
Saturated Fat 0.0g0%
Cholesterol 0.0mg0%
Sodium 9.8mg1%
Total Carbohydrate 0.3g1%
Dietary Fiber 0.2g1%
Sugars 0.1g
Protein 0.6g2%

* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily value may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.

Note

For added flavor, dress lightly with a splash of sesame oil, a squeeze of lime juice, and a pinch of salt and pepper.

This salad is best served fresh. If preparing ahead, keep the walnuts and watercress separate until serving to prevent wilting.

You can substitute spinach or arugula for watercress if unavailable, though the peppery flavor will be milder.

Toast the walnuts lightly in a dry skillet for 2-3 minutes before adding for extra crunch and aroma.

Keywords: salad, watercress, walnuts, water chestnuts, vegetables, vegan, healthy, lunch, side dish, crunchy, fresh, no-cook, light meal, picnic, peppery, nuts, asian-inspired, quick recipe, raw, nutrient-dense
Read it online: https://www.chefs-mate.com/recipe/walnut-watercress-salad/