Tatsoi & Avocado Salad With Roast Garlic Dressing
I remember the first time I encountered tatsoi. It was at a small farmer’s market, the leaves looking so vibrant and unlike any other greens I’d seen before. The vendor explained its mild, slightly mustardy flavor, and I immediately envisioned it paired with creamy avocado. This salad, with its deeply savory roasted garlic dressing, captures that initial inspiration perfectly – a harmonious blend of textures and tastes that brightens any meal.
Recipe Overview
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Total Time: 55 minutes
- Servings: 12
- Dietary Type: Vegetarian, Gluten-Free
Ingredients
- 3 tatsoi, leaves picked, washed, dried
- 100 g baby spinach leaves, washed, dried
- 4 large ripe avocados, halved, stone removed, peeled, thinly sliced crossways
Roast Garlic Dressing
- 3 heads garlic
- 2 tablespoons red wine vinegar
- Salt & freshly ground black pepper
- 1/3 cup extra virgin olive oil
- 3-4 tablespoons hot water
Equipment Needed
- Baking tray
- Blender
- Large serving bowl
Instructions
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Prepare the Roast Garlic Dressing: You can make this up to 1 day in advance. Keep it in an airtight container in the fridge. Remove the dressing from the fridge 1 1/2 hours before serving to bring to room temperature.
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Roast the Garlic: Preheat oven to 180°C (350°F). Place the garlic heads on a baking tray and roast in the preheated oven for 30-35 minutes or until the garlic cloves are soft. To check for doneness, the cloves should yield easily when pressed.
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Cool the Garlic: Remove the baking tray from the oven and set aside for 10 minutes to cool slightly. This makes it easier to handle the garlic.
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Extract the Roasted Garlic: Cut the tops off the garlic heads. Squeeze the soft garlic from each bulb, ensuring you get all the flavorful pulp, and place it in a blender.
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Blend the Dressing: Add the red wine vinegar to the blender with the roasted garlic. Season generously with salt and freshly ground black pepper. Blend until well combined, creating a smooth paste.
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Emulsify the Dressing: With the blender motor running, gradually add the extra virgin olive oil in a thin, steady stream. This process emulsifies the dressing, creating a thick and creamy texture.
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Adjust the Consistency: Gradually add enough hot water to the blender to achieve a pouring consistency. Start with 3 tablespoons and add more as needed, depending on the desired thickness. Taste and adjust seasonings if necessary.
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Prepare the Salad: In a large serving bowl, place the tatsoi leaves, baby spinach leaves, and sliced avocado.
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Combine the Salad: Gently toss the ingredients to combine, being careful not to mash the delicate avocado slices.
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Dress the Salad: Drizzle the roast garlic dressing over the salad just before serving. Toss lightly to coat the leaves evenly.
Expert Tips & Tricks
- For a more intense garlic flavor, use slightly older garlic heads, as the flavor concentrates over time. However, ensure the garlic isn’t sprouting or showing signs of spoilage.
- Don’t overcrowd the baking tray when roasting the garlic. Adequate spacing allows for even cooking.
- If you don’t have a blender, you can mash the roasted garlic with a fork and whisk the dressing ingredients together vigorously.
- To prevent the avocado from browning, toss it with a little lemon juice before adding it to the salad.
- If the dressing is too thick, add more hot water, one tablespoon at a time, until you reach the desired consistency.
- The quality of your olive oil significantly impacts the dressing’s flavor. Use a high-quality extra virgin olive oil for the best results.
Serving & Storage Suggestions
Serve this salad immediately after dressing to prevent the tatsoi and spinach from wilting and the avocado from browning. It makes a beautiful and flavorful side dish or light lunch.
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. However, the avocado may brown slightly, so it’s best to consume it as soon as possible. The dressing can be stored separately in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Nutritional Information
| Nutrient | Amount per Serving | % Daily Value |
|---|---|---|
| Calories | 205.9 kcal | N/A |
| Calories from Fat | 161 g | 78% |
| Total Fat | 17.9 g | 27% |
| Saturated Fat | 2.6 g | 12% |
| Cholesterol | 0 mg | 0% |
| Sodium | 15 mg | 0% |
| Total Carbohydrate | 12.1 g | 4% |
| Dietary Fiber | 5.9 g | 23% |
| Sugars | 0.7 g | 2% |
| Protein | 2.8 g | 5% |
Variations & Substitutions
- Add protein: Grilled chicken, shrimp, or tofu would be excellent additions to this salad.
- Spice it up: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the dressing for a little heat.
- Cheese: Crumbled feta or goat cheese would add a tangy element.
- Nuts and Seeds: Toasted almonds, walnuts, or pumpkin seeds can provide a satisfying crunch.
- Citrus: A squeeze of lemon or lime juice can brighten the flavors of the salad and dressing.
- Other Greens: If you can’t find tatsoi, substitute with baby bok choy or other leafy greens.
FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions)
Q: Can I make the roast garlic dressing ahead of time?
A: Yes, the dressing can be made up to a day in advance. Store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator and allow it to come to room temperature before serving.
Q: How do I prevent the avocado from browning?
A: Toss the avocado slices with a little lemon or lime juice before adding them to the salad. This helps to slow down the oxidation process.
Q: Can I use a different type of oil for the dressing?
A: While extra virgin olive oil is recommended for its flavor, you can substitute with another neutral-tasting oil like avocado oil or grapeseed oil.
Q: What can I substitute for tatsoi if I can’t find it?
A: Baby bok choy or other mild leafy greens can be used as a substitute for tatsoi.
Q: How long does the salad last once it’s dressed?
A: It’s best to serve the salad immediately after dressing to prevent the greens from wilting. If you need to prepare it in advance, keep the dressing separate and dress the salad just before serving.
Final Thoughts
I encourage you to try this Tatsoi & Avocado Salad with Roast Garlic Dressing. It’s a celebration of fresh, vibrant flavors that’s both simple to prepare and incredibly satisfying. Feel free to experiment with variations and make it your own! Share your feedback and pairings – perhaps a crisp white wine or grilled fish would complement it beautifully. Enjoy!