Rainbow Pineapple Salad
Who said that vegans eat bland, boring meals? Not I said the Gab! Since your girl doesn’t do basic, we are making a huge feast of flavor loaded on a bed of colorful ingredients that I adore! I mean, how stunning is this Rainbow Salad? Totally GORGEOUS! Oh yeah, and the zesty Pineapple + Habanero Dressing is the perfect marriage between sweet, spicy, tangy, and sassy. Eat the rainbow my loves!
If you love this recipe, you may also like my Spicy Spiral Cucumber Salad and Vegan Taco Salad!
COURSE: Salad, Main Course, Entree, Dinner, Lunch, Side Dish
CUISINE: Vegan, Caribbean, Healthy, Salad
NUTRITIONAL FACTS: (Per 2 Cups)
Calories 215
Protein 16g
Dietary Fiber 20g
Why You Will Love This Rainbow Pineapple Salad:
This salad is not only stunning, but every single ingredient will heal your body and feed your soul. From the colorful, crunchy vegetables and hearty plant protein, to the the zesty Pineapple + Habanero Dressing and everything bagel seasoning, this is the perfect marriage between sweet, spicy, tangy, and sassy. Eat the rainbow my loves!
About the Ingredients:
This Rainbow Pineapple Salad is a vibrant dish with a variety of fresh ingredients. It includes massaged kale, lettuce, red pepper, carrots, pineapple, cucumber, purple cabbage, chickpeas, black beans, and everything bagel seasoning. The avocado slices and pineapple dressing add creaminess and tang. It's a visually stunning and flavorful salad!
Chopped Massaged Kale and Chopped Lettuce
Chopped Massaged Kale and Chopped Lettuce form the nutritious base of the Rainbow Pineapple Salad. Kale, known as a superfood, is rich in vitamins A, C, and K, as well as fiber and antioxidants. Massaging kale helps to tenderize its leaves and reduce bitterness. Lettuce provides a fresh crunch and is a good source of vitamins A and K. It is also used as wraps or toppers in other recipes. Both kale and lettuce contribute to a healthy diet, supporting digestion, immunity, and overall well-being.
Diced Pineapple
Bursting with tropical sweetness, pineapple adds a juicy and refreshing element to the dish. Pineapple is rich in vitamin C, which supports a healthy immune system and collagen production. It contains bromelain, an enzyme that aids digestion and reduces inflammation.
Cooked Chickpeas
Cooked chickpeas, also known as garbanzo beans, are a delightful addition to this Salad. They provide a satisfying texture and a boost of protein, making it a nutritious and tasty choice to add in other recipes too. Chickpeas are an excellent source of plant-based protein, fiber, and essential minerals like iron and magnesium.
Everything Bagel Seasoning
Everything Bagel Seasoning is a delightful blend of spices that adds a burst of flavor to the Rainbow Pineapple Salad. This magical seasoning combines sesame seeds, poppy seeds, dried garlic, dried onion, and salt, creating a savory and aromatic mix. It's like a party for your taste buds!
Habanero or Scotch Bonnet Pepper
Habanero or Scotch Bonnet Pepper is a small but mighty ingredient in the Rainbow Pineapple Salad. These peppers are known for their fiery heat and vibrant colors, adding a spicy kick and a burst of flavor to any dish. Not only do they provide a delightful punch to your taste buds, but they also offer some health benefits. These peppers contain capsaicin, which may boost metabolism and help with weight loss!
Questions and Tips:
What equipment can I make this recipe in?
You can make the Rainbow Pineapple Salad with basic kitchen equipment. All you need is a blender to prepare the pineapple dressing, a large bowl to mix and massage the greens, a cutting board and knife for chopping the vegetables, and a serving dish to beautifully arrange the salad. No fancy or specialized equipment is required, making it an accessible recipe for anyone to enjoy.
Are the extra toppings necessary?
The extra toppings in the Rainbow Pineapple Salad add additional flavor and texture to the dish. However, if you prefer alternative options, you can customize the salad to your liking. Instead of everything bagel seasoning, you could try sprinkling some toasted sesame seeds or crushed nuts for a crunchy element. As for the avocado slices, you can replace them with a handful of sunflower or pumpkin seeds for added crunch and nutritional value. These alternatives will still complement the salad while providing a different twist to suit your taste preferences.
What else can I serve with this Rainbow Pineapple Salad?
This Rainbow Pineapple Salad is a versatile dish that can be enjoyed as a standalone meal or paired with other complementary dishes. To create a more complete meal, you can serve it with vegan chicken or vegan shrimp for added protein. Additionally, you can pair it with a side of quinoa, brown rice, or cooked sweet potatoes to add heartiness and create a balanced plate. For a lighter option, consider serving it alongside a refreshing fruit salad or a side of whole-grain bread or crackers. The salad's vibrant flavors and colors make it a great choice to accompany various dishes, allowing you to get creative and tailor the meal to your preferences.
How long does this recipe last?
The Rainbow Pineapple Salad is best enjoyed fresh, as the ingredients are crisp and vibrant. However, if you have leftovers, you can store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2-5days. Keep in mind that some ingredients, such as the avocado slices, may oxidize and lose their freshness over time. To keep the salad's texture and flavors, dress and add the avocado slices just before serving.
Will non-vegans like this?
Yes! The Rainbow Pineapple Salad, though vegan, has delicious flavors and a colorful presentation that everyone can enjoy. It combines fresh veggies, sweet pineapple, and a zesty dressing for a refreshing and satisfying dish. It works well as a main course or a side with grilled meats or seafood. Whether you're vegan or not, this salad is a crowd-pleaser!
Rainbow Pineapple Salad
Ingredients
Instructions
Nutrition Facts
Fiber
20 gCalories
215Protein
16 g
