Zinger Salad, also known as Avocado Salad, is a popular combination of fresh vegetables and cheese in a creamy, citrus dressing.
It’s an easy-to-make side dish that’s perfect for the holidays or any time you’re craving something light.
The avocados have been peeled and diced along with onions, celery, jalapeno peppers, fresh oregano, and breadcrumbs to make them super soft.
What is Zinger Salad?
Zinger Salad combines avocado, cheese, onion, and celery with a creamy dressing. It is a popular salad for the holidays because it’s easy to make and tastes great.
How to make Zinger Salad
Ingredients:
- 1 ripe avocado, peeled, seeded, and chopped
- 1 small white onion, chopped
- 2 stalks celery, diced fine
- 1/2 jalapeno pepper, minced (or 4 to 5 raw with seeds removed)
Prepare:
1. In a small bowl, combine the avocado with half of the firm leaves from the head of fresh oregano.
2. In a large bowl, combine the remaining firm leaves from oregano with breadcrumbs, Italian dressing, and pepperoncini.
3. In a medium-sized bowl, mash all four ingredients with a fork or potato masher. It should have a creamy texture. If it seems too thick, add another egg yolk.
4. In a large skillet or sauté pan, heat olive oil and sauté onion, celery, and jalapeno pepper. Cook until soft.
5. Add mashed avocado to the largest bowl of dressing and fold in ingredients with a wooden spoon or spatula.
6. Fold in the rest of the ingredients until well combined. Add more seasonings if needed.
7. Chill for 1 hour before serving or cover with plastic wrap and store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days (to prevent discoloration).
Nutrition facts of Zinger Salad
| Nutrition | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 313 |
| Total Fat | 14g |
| Cholesterol | 4mg |
| Sodium | Sodium |
Health Benefits of Zinger Salad
Calcium:
This recipe has a high amount of calcium, which helps build strong bones and teeth by increasing the absorption rate.
Iron:
Iron is important in producing hemoglobin, which carries oxygen to the rest of the body.
Folate:
Folate helps with DNA synthesis, which is crucial in cell growth. This can help prevent cancer, heart disease, and stroke.
Vitamin A:
Vitamin A is important for good eye health, vision, and cell development.
Vitamin C:
Vitamin C helps build collagen and elastin that keep our skin elastic; this strengthens the skin and prevents wrinkles.
How to store Zinger Salad
You can store avocado salad for a minimal amount of time. To prevent discoloration, you should place the remaining untreated avocado in an airtight container,
then add plastic wrap over the top. Put this container in the refrigerator, where it will last for up to 5 days. It will also help preserve its freshness.
The Ambitious Cook
Zinger Salad is a popular combination of fresh vegetables and cheese in a creamy, citrus dressing. It’s an easy-to-make side dish that’s perfect for the holidays or any time you’re craving something light.
The avocados have been peeled and diced along with onions, celery, jalapeno peppers, fresh oregano, and breadcrumbs to make them super soft.
Is it Safe For Pregnant Women?
Yes. This salad is safe during pregnancy. Avocado is a great source of nutrients, including folic acid and potassium, important for pregnant women to consume.
Is it Safe For Breastfeeding Women?
Yes. This salad is safe during breastfeeding. However, many studies have shown that additional supplements may be necessary as breast milk has low levels of nutrients such as vitamin E and vitamin K.
Can Parents Substitute the Cheese for Yogurt?
The cheese in this recipe can be substituted with yogurt, as well. The yogurt in this recipe is quite tangy so some people may prefer a less-sour taste.
Can Parents Substitute the Olive Oil for Vegetable Oil?
This seems like it would work – but it doesn’t. It will only work if the olive oil is heated to very high temperatures. Olive oil does not reach those temperatures until much cooler than vegetable oil.
Can Parents Use Coconut Milk Instead of Yogurt?
Yes, coconut milk can be used in place of yogurt. However, the texture will be altered slightly, and the yogurt will not be as tangy as when used in this recipe.
Can Parents Leave Out the Dressing?
Yes, although you may want to serve this dish with a small side salad for an added boost of nutrition. The dressing gives the avocado a creamier texture and isn’t necessarily necessary to enjoy this dish.
Is It Good For Heart Patients?
Yes. The avocado contains monounsaturated fats that are considered good for heart health, and it is also a source of folate and vitamin A, which are important for cardiovascular health.
Is It Good For Diabetics?
The avocado in this recipe is low in calories, fat, and carbs. It also contains no sugar and has a high amount of fiber. This means it is good for people with diabetes.
Is It Good For Mediterranean Dieters?
This recipe can be accommodated by those following the Mediterranean diet. It is considered one of the best recipes to follow the Mediterranean diet.
Can Parents Eat It When They’re Hungry?
Yes. If you’re looking for a healthy, light meal, this salad is good.
Is It Good For People With Hypertension?
Yes. The avocado in this recipe is low in sodium and high in potassium, important for controlling blood pressure.
Conclusion
Zinger Salad makes a great side dish that is perfect for the holidays or any time you’re craving something light. It’s a delicious salad that will hit the spot while keeping you full and satisfied.
