Difficulty: Easy | Serves: 4
Travel back to the Middle Ages with this vibrant, refreshing Sallet, a traditional medieval herb salad enjoyed by nobles and common folk alike.
Unlike modern salads, medieval sallets were often a mix of fresh herbs, leafy greens, and simple vegetables, lightly dressed with vinegar, olive oil, and sometimes a hint of honey for sweetness. It’s a minimalist yet flavorful dish that showcases the natural taste of fresh ingredients.
Ingredients For Sallet
For the Salad (Sallet):
2 cups mixed leafy greens (arugula, spinach, romaine, or wild greens)
½ cup fresh herbs (parsley, mint, dill, or sorrel)
1 cucumber, thinly sliced
1 small red onion, thinly sliced
½ cup radishes, sliced (optional for color and crunch)
Handful of edible flowers (like violets or nasturtiums) for an authentic medieval touch
For the Dressing:
3 tablespoons
olive oil
2 tablespoons
vinegar (apple cider or wine vinegar)
1 teaspoon
honey (optional for sweetness)
Salt & freshly ground black pepper to taste
Cooking Steps For Sallet
Step 1: Prepare the Vegetables and Herbs
Wash and dry the leafy greens and herbs thoroughly.
Tear the greens into bite-sized pieces and roughly chop the herbs.
Slice the cucumber, onion, and radishes thinly for a delicate texture.
Step 2: Make the Dressing
In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, vinegar, honey, salt, and pepper until emulsified.
Step 3: Assemble the Sallet
In a large bowl, combine the greens, herbs, and sliced vegetables.
Drizzle the dressing over the salad and toss gently to coat.
Garnish with edible flowers for a beautiful, authentic finish.
Step 4: Serve & Enjoy
Serve fresh as a light appetizer or a side dish to complement hearty medieval-style meats or stews.
Fresh, vibrant, and steeped in history—this medieval Sallet is a simple yet flavorful way to experience the tastes of the past. Who’s ready for a bite of history?
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