Name: Colorful Mini Salad Cups
Prep time: 20 min
Total time: 20 min
Ingredients: 12 mini cups or shot glasses: Clear plastic cups work best for displaying the layers.; 1 cup lettuce leaves, finely chopped – Romaine or iceberg for a crisp texture.; 1/2 cup cherry tomatoes, quartered – For a burst of sweetness and color.; 1/2 cup cucumber, diced – Adds crunch and freshness.; 1/4 cup shredded carrots – Bright and subtly sweet.; 1/4 cup red bell pepper, diced – Adds a pop of color and a bit of sweetness.; 1/4 cup crumbled feta or goat cheese – For a creamy, tangy twist.; 1/4 cup olives, sliced – Adds brininess.; Fresh herbs: basil, parsley, or cilantro, finely chopped for a hint of freshness.; 2 tablespoons olive oil – Smooth and light.; 1 tablespoon lemon juice – Adds tang and brightness.; Salt and pepper to taste – For seasoning.

Ingredients

Scale

Base Ingredients:

12 mini cups or shot glasses: Clear plastic cups work best for displaying the layers.
1 cup lettuce leaves, finely chopped – Romaine or iceberg for a crisp texture.
1/2 cup cherry tomatoes, quartered – For a burst of sweetness and color.
1/2 cup cucumber, diced – Adds crunch and freshness.
1/4 cup shredded carrots – Bright and subtly sweet.
1/4 cup red bell pepper, diced – Adds a pop of color and a bit of sweetness.

Optional Toppings:

1/4 cup crumbled feta or goat cheese – For a creamy, tangy twist.
1/4 cup olives, sliced – Adds brininess.
Fresh herbs: basil, parsley, or cilantro, finely chopped for a hint of freshness.

Dressing:

2 tablespoons olive oil – Smooth and light.
1 tablespoon lemon juice – Adds tang and brightness.
Salt and pepper to taste – For seasoning.

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Instructions

Prepare the Cups
Start by laying out your mini cups on a tray. The clearer the cups, the better the layers will look!
Layer the Lettuce
Add about a tablespoon of chopped lettuce to each cup as the first layer. This adds a fresh, crunchy base.
Add Cucumber and Bell Pepper
Add a layer of diced cucumber, followed by a layer of diced bell pepper for a nice mix of colors. Aim for a teaspoon per layer, so each ingredient shows through the clear cups.
Add the Cherry Tomatoes
Place a small spoonful of cherry tomato quarters. These add a pop of red and a hint of sweetness.
Top with Carrots
Add a small amount of shredded carrots for color contrast and a mild, sweet crunch.
Optional Ingredients
If you’re adding cheese, olives, or herbs, sprinkle these on top to add extra flavor and a final colorful touch.
Make the Dressing
In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, lemon juice, salt, and pepper. Adjust to taste and set aside.
Add the Dressing
Just before serving, add a teaspoon of dressing to each cup. If you’re prepping ahead, wait until the last minute to add the dressing to prevent the salad from getting soggy.

Prep Time: 20 minutes

Nutrition

Serving Size: 12
Calories: 50
Fat: 2g
Carbohydrates: 5g
Protein: 1g