Chopped Salad with Lime Dressing

As the heat of the season lingers, the idea of skipping the stove or oven becomes particularly enticing. This is the perfect time of year to embrace dishes that require little to no cooking, offering both simplicity and refreshment. Here’s a recipe that comes together effortlessly, without the need for heat—unless, of course, you choose to pair it with something freshly grilled asparagus, to add a smoky, savory touch.

In August, salads become a vibrant sensory celebration of seasonal produce, offering fresh, crunchy textures and bold flavors. This recipe combines romaine hearts, sweet corn, peppery radishes, refreshing cucumber, and creamy avocado, all elevated by a zesty lime dressing. Optional lime tortilla chips add a satisfying crunch for a festive twis

Lime Dressing

• 2 tablespoons fresh-squeezed lime juice
• 2 tablespoons raw organic sugar or local honey
• 1 finely minced garlic clove
• Coarse sea salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
• Olive oil

Instructions

1. In a small bowl, whisk together lime juice, sugar (or honey), and garlic until the sugar dissolves.
2. Slowly drizzle in olive oil while whisking until the mixture emulsifies.
3. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Salad

• 3 romaine hearts, trimmed and chopped into bite-sized pieces
• 4 fresh ears of corn, shucked, blanched, and kernels removed
• 7 radishes, thinly sliced (halve into half-moons if large)
• 2 large ripe avocados, pitted and sliced
• 1 cup chopped cilantro (leaves, tender stems, or flower)
• 2 cups crumbled lime tortilla chips (optional)

Instructions

1. In a large salad bowl, layer the romaine, corn, radishes, avocado slices, and cilantro.
2. Drizzle the lime dressing evenly over the salad and toss gently to combine.
3. Sprinkle crumbled lime tortilla chips on top if using.

Additional: Add 1 fresh cucumber, chopped small, and/or cherry tomatoes, halved.

Serving Suggestion
Serve immediately as a refreshing side dish or a light main course. This salad pairs beautifully with a grilled veggie burger or a chickpea Falafel for a summer-inspired meal.

Enjoy the fresh, zesty flavors of August!

Dr. Gayil Nalls is an interdisciplinary sensory artist and theorist. She is the founder of the World Sensorium Conservancy and the editor of its journal, Plantings.