Ice Water Salad: A Refreshing Twist on Crunchy Greens

When it comes to salads, most of us envision delicate, leafy greens drizzled with vinaigrette. But what if I told you there’s a heartier, more satisfying salad that doesn’t wilt and packs a powerful crunch? Enter the “Ice Water Salad,” a game-changer in the world of fresh, crisp veggies.

The Inspiration

Inspired by food writer Molly Baz’s popular recipe, the Ice Water Salad takes a bold approach. Instead of relying on fragile lettuce leaves, this salad features a kaleidoscope of roots, stalks, and bulbs sliced razor-thin. The result? A symphony of colors, textures, and flavors that will leave your taste buds dancing.

The Ingredients

  1. Beets: Vibrant garnet tones and earthy grounding.
  2. Carrots: Sunny pops of orange and a touch of sweetness.
  3. Turnip and Celery Root: Hardy slices that add substance.
  4. Fennel, Celery, and Radishes: Crisp and juicy companions.
Ice Water Salad
Ice Water Salad

The Crunch Factor

Here’s where the magic happens. Remember that trick from restaurant kitchens? The one where produce items are prepped hours before service and held in ice water? Well, it turns out that an icy soak makes vegetables extraordinarily crisp and fresh-tasting. How does it work? When you cut up veggies and submerge them in cold water, they absorb moisture, plumping up their cells. The more water a vegetable holds, the crunchier it becomes. Think of it as a hydration boost for your greens

The Make-Ahead Advantage

Planning a dinner party? The Ice Water Salad is your secret weapon. Prep the sliced veggies, load them into a salad spinner, and give them an icy bath. Refrigerate overnight, then spin them dry. Voilà! A salad that’s ready to impress without wilting or losing its crunch.

Dress It Up

For an all-purpose dressing, try a bagna cauda dressing with toasted walnuts and shaved Parmesan. The creamy miso dressing also pairs beautifully. The key is to let the veggies shine while adding just the right amount of flavor.

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