Are you looking for a fresh and healthy meal option? Look no further than watercress! This peppery green is packed with nutrients and can be used in a variety of delicious salad recipes. In this article, we’ll explore 18 refreshing watercress salad recipes that are perfect for any time of year.
From classic combinations like watercress and avocado to more exotic pairings like watercress and mango, there’s something for everyone in our collection of watercress salads. Whether you’re looking for a light lunch or a quick dinner, these recipes are sure to hit the spot.
So why not start your day off right with a crunchy watercress salad? Or perhaps you’d prefer a more substantial meal? Whatever your taste buds desire, we’ve got you covered. In this article, we’ll dive into the world of watercress salads and provide you with all the inspiration you need to create your own delicious meals.
So let’s get started! Which watercress salad will be your new favorite?
Classic Watercress and Avocado Salad
This refreshing salad combines the peppery flavor of watercress with the creamy texture of avocado, perfect for a light and healthy meal.
Ingredients:
– 4 cups fresh watercress leaves
– 2 ripe avocados, diced
– 1/2 cup red onion, thinly sliced
– 1/4 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine the watercress leaves and red onion slices.
2. In a separate bowl, whisk together the lemon juice and salt to create a vinaigrette.
3. Cut the avocado into small cubes and add them to the watercress mixture.
4. Drizzle the lemon vinaigrette over the salad and toss gently to combine.
5. Season with pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: None! This salad is ready in just 10 minutes.
Watercress, Orange, and Fennel Salad
This refreshing salad combines the peppery flavor of watercress with the sweetness of orange and the crunch of fennel, perfect for a light lunch or dinner.
Ingredients:
– 4 cups fresh watercress leaves
– 2 navel oranges, peeled and segmented
– 1 large bulb of fennel, thinly sliced
– 1/4 cup extra-virgin olive oil
– 2 tablespoons white wine vinegar
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine watercress leaves, orange segments, and fennel slices.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil and white wine vinegar.
3. Pour the dressing over the salad and toss to combine.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 10 minutes
Spicy Watercress and Mango Salad
This refreshing salad combines the crunch of watercress with the sweetness of mango, all tied together by a spicy kick from the jalapeño peppers. Perfect for a light and flavorful lunch or as a side dish for your favorite dinner.
Ingredients:
• 4 cups watercress leaves
• 2 ripe mangos, diced
• 1/2 cup red onion, thinly sliced
• 1 jalapeño pepper, seeded and finely chopped
• 2 tablespoons lime juice
• Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine watercress leaves, mango, and red onion.
2. Add the chopped jalapeño pepper and toss gently to combine.
3. Squeeze lime juice over the salad and sprinkle with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 10 minutes
Watercress and Beetroot Salad with Goat Cheese
A refreshing and flavorful salad that combines the peppery taste of watercress with the sweetness of beetroot, topped with creamy goat cheese. Perfect for a light lunch or as a side dish.
Ingredients:
– 200g beetroot, peeled and thinly sliced
– 1 bunch watercress, chopped
– 100g goat cheese, crumbled
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 tsp apple cider vinegar
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 180°C (350°F).
2. Toss beetroot slices with a drizzle of olive oil, salt, and pepper on a baking sheet. Roast for 20-25 minutes or until tender.
3. In a large bowl, combine chopped watercress and roasted beetroot.
4. Crumble goat cheese over the salad and drizzle with apple cider vinegar.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Watercress, Pear, and Walnut Salad
This refreshing salad combines the peppery flavor of watercress with the sweetness of pear and the crunch of walnuts, making it a perfect side dish or light lunch.
Ingredients:
– 4 cups watercress leaves
– 1 ripe pear, diced
– 1/2 cup chopped walnuts
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine watercress leaves and diced pear.
2. Sprinkle chopped walnuts over the top of the salad.
3. Drizzle olive oil and apple cider vinegar over the salad.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve immediately, garnished with additional watercress if desired.
Cooking Time: 10 minutes
Asian-Inspired Watercress Salad with Sesame Dressing
Experience the refreshing flavors of Asia with this simple and vibrant salad, perfect for a light lunch or dinner.
Ingredients:
– 4 cups watercress leaves
– 1/2 cup thinly sliced red bell pepper
– 1/2 cup sliced scallions (green onions)
– 1/4 cup toasted sesame seeds
– 2 tablespoons soy sauce
– 2 tablespoons rice vinegar
– 1 tablespoon honey
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine watercress leaves, red bell pepper, and scallions.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together sesame seeds, soy sauce, rice vinegar, and honey until well combined.
3. Pour the sesame dressing over the salad and toss to coat.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 10 minutes
Enjoy your Asian-inspired watercress salad with sesame dressing!
Watercress and Quinoa Salad with Lemon Vinaigrette
This refreshing salad combines the peppery flavor of watercress with the nutty taste of quinoa, all tied together with a tangy lemon vinaigrette. Perfect for a light and healthy lunch or dinner.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup quinoa, rinsed and drained
– 2 cups water or vegetable broth
– 4 cups watercress leaves and stems
– 1/2 cup chopped red onion
– 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese (optional)
– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Cook quinoa according to package instructions using water or broth. Set aside.
2. In a large bowl, combine watercress, red onion, and feta cheese (if using).
3. In a small bowl, whisk together lemon juice and olive oil.
4. Add cooked quinoa to the salad mixture and toss to combine.
5. Drizzle lemon vinaigrette over the salad and season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 20 minutes
Watercress, Strawberry, and Almond Salad
This refreshing salad combines the peppery flavor of watercress with the sweetness of strawberries and the crunch of almonds for a perfect summer treat.
Ingredients:
– 4 cups fresh watercress
– 1 pint sliced strawberries
– 1/2 cup sliced almonds
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 tablespoon white wine vinegar
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine the watercress and sliced strawberries.
2. Sprinkle the sliced almonds over the top of the salad.
3. In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil and white wine vinegar.
4. Pour the dressing over the salad and toss to combine.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: None
Servings: 4-6
Watercress and Cucumber Salad with Mint Yogurt Dressing
A light and refreshing summer salad that combines the peppery flavor of watercress, the coolness of cucumber, and the sweetness of mint.
Ingredients:
– 4 cups fresh watercress leaves
– 2 medium cucumbers, sliced
– 1/2 cup plain Greek yogurt
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh mint leaves
– 2 tablespoons lemon juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine the watercress leaves and cucumber slices.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together the yogurt, mint leaves, and lemon juice until smooth.
3. Pour the dressing over the watercress mixture and toss to combine.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 10 minutes
Enjoy your refreshing Watercress and Cucumber Salad with Mint Yogurt Dressing!
Watercress and Smoked Salmon Salad
This refreshing salad combines the peppery flavor of watercress with the rich taste of smoked salmon, perfect for a light and satisfying lunch or dinner. The creamy avocado adds a velvety texture, while the lemon juice provides a burst of citrus freshness.
Ingredients:
– 4 cups watercress
– 1/2 cup smoked salmon, flaked
– 1 ripe avocado, diced
– 1 tablespoon freshly squeezed lemon juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: 1/4 teaspoon Dijon mustard
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine the watercress and flaked salmon.
2. Arrange the diced avocado on top of the salad.
3. Squeeze the lemon juice over the salad and sprinkle with salt and pepper to taste.
4. If desired, add a pinch of Dijon mustard for an extra depth of flavor.
Cooking Time: None! This salad is ready in just a few minutes.
Watercress and Roasted Sweet Potato Salad
This refreshing salad combines the peppery flavor of watercress with the natural sweetness of roasted sweet potatoes, perfect for a light and satisfying meal or side dish.
Ingredients:
– 2 large sweet potatoes
– 1 bunch of fresh watercress
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: crumbled goat cheese or chopped pecans for added texture
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C). Pierce the sweet potatoes several times with a fork and roast for 45-50 minutes, or until tender.
2. Meanwhile, heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the watercress and cook until wilted, about 3-4 minutes.
3. In a large bowl, combine the roasted sweet potatoes, cooked watercress, apple cider vinegar, salt, and pepper. Toss to combine.
4. Optional: top with crumbled goat cheese or chopped pecans before serving.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes (roasting time) + 3-4 minutes (watercress cooking time)
Watercress and Chickpea Salad with Tahini Dressing
This refreshing salad combines the peppery flavor of watercress with the creaminess of tahini dressing, all while adding some protein-rich chickpeas for a satisfying meal.
Ingredients:
– 4 cups watercress, chopped
– 1 can chickpeas (14 oz), drained and rinsed
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tbsp lemon juice
– 1/2 cup tahini
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine watercress and chickpeas.
2. In a blender or food processor, combine garlic, lemon juice, tahini, and olive oil. Blend until smooth.
3. Pour the dressing over the watercress mixture and toss to coat.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Garnish with chopped parsley and serve.
Cooking Time: 10 minutes
Watercress and Grilled Peach Salad
Savor the sweet and tangy flavors of summer with this refreshing salad featuring grilled peaches, peppery watercress, and a hint of citrus. Perfect for a light and healthy lunch or dinner.
Ingredients:
– 4 ripe peaches, sliced into wedges
– 1/2 cup fresh watercress leaves
– 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese (optional)
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill or grill pan to medium-high heat.
2. Grill peach slices for 2-3 minutes per side, until caramelized and slightly charred.
3. In a large bowl, combine grilled peaches, watercress leaves, and crumbled feta cheese (if using).
4. Drizzle with olive oil and lemon juice; season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Watercress and Pomegranate Salad with Balsamic Glaze
This refreshing salad combines the peppery flavor of watercress, the sweetness of pomegranate seeds, and the tanginess of balsamic glaze. Perfect for a light lunch or as a side dish for your favorite meal.
Ingredients:
– 4 cups watercress leaves
– 1/2 cup pomegranate seeds
– 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese (optional)
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 2 tbsp balsamic glaze (homemade or store-bought)
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine watercress leaves and pomegranate seeds.
2. Drizzle with olive oil and toss gently.
3. If using feta cheese, crumble it over the salad and sprinkle with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Drizzle balsamic glaze over the salad and serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 5 minutes
Watercress and Grilled Chicken Salad
This refreshing salad combines the peppery flavor of watercress with the smoky taste of grilled chicken, all wrapped up in a light and tangy dressing.
Ingredients:
– 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 2 cups watercress leaves
– 1/2 cup chopped red onion
– 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. Season chicken with salt, pepper, and your favorite seasonings.
3. Grill chicken for 5-6 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
4. In a large bowl, combine watercress, red onion, and feta cheese.
5. Drizzle olive oil and apple cider vinegar over the salad, tossing to combine.
6. Slice grilled chicken into thin strips and place on top of the salad.
7. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Watercress and Shrimp Salad with Citrus Dressing
This refreshing salad combines the peppery flavor of watercress with succulent shrimp, all tied together with a zesty citrus dressing. Perfect for a light and satisfying meal or as a starter for a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 4 oz large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 2 cups fresh watercress leaves
– 1/2 cup freshly squeezed orange juice
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 tsp Dijon mustard
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1/4 cup chopped red onion (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook shrimp according to package instructions until pink and tender.
2. In a large bowl, combine watercress leaves and cooked shrimp.
3. In a small bowl, whisk together orange juice, olive oil, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper.
4. Pour dressing over the salad and toss gently.
5. Garnish with chopped red onion if desired.
6. Serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Watercress and Lentil Salad with Herbs
This salad combines the peppery flavor of watercress with the comforting warmth of lentils, all tied together with a medley of fresh herbs. Perfect for a light and refreshing meal or as a side dish.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cooked lentils
– 2 cups watercress leaves and stems
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh mint
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine cooked lentils, watercress, parsley, and mint.
2. Drizzle with olive oil and lemon juice; season with salt and pepper to taste.
3. Toss gently to combine all the ingredients.
4. Serve immediately or refrigerate for up to 24 hours.
Cooking Time: None! Just assemble and serve.
Watercress and Blueberry Salad with Honey Mustard Dressing
This refreshing salad combines the peppery flavor of watercress with the sweetness of blueberries, all tied together with a tangy honey mustard dressing.
Ingredients:
– 4 cups watercress leaves
– 1 cup fresh blueberries
– 2 tablespoons honey
– 2 tablespoons whole-grain mustard
– 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine the watercress leaves and blueberries.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together the honey, mustard, and apple cider vinegar until well combined.
3. Slowly pour in the olive oil while continuously whisking the mixture until it’s smooth and emulsified.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Pour the dressing over the watercress and blueberry mixture, and toss to combine.
6. Serve immediately, garnished with additional blueberries if desired.
Cooking Time: 10 minutes
Summary
Discover the refreshing world of watercress salads! This article presents 18 unique and healthy recipes that showcase the versatility of this peppery green. From classic combinations like avocado and beetroot to innovative pairings with mango, pear, and pomegranate, there’s a salad for every taste bud. Whether you’re looking for a light lunch or a nutritious dinner option, these watercress salads are sure to satisfy your hunger while providing a boost of vitamins and antioxidants. Get ready to spruce up your meal routine with these refreshing and delicious recipes!
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