Print
clock clock iconcutlery cutlery iconflag flag iconfolder folder iconinstagram instagram iconpinterest pinterest iconfacebook facebook iconprint print iconsquares squares iconheart heart iconheart solid heart solid icon
Checkerboard salad with colorful vegetables arranged in a grid

Checkerboard Salad Recipe – A Stunning, Fresh Twist for Any Occasion


5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

No reviews

  • Author: Clara
  • Total Time: 30 minutes
  • Yield: 4–6 servings
  • Diet: Vegetarian

Description

A stunning and customizable salad arranged in a colorful grid of fresh vegetables, fruits, cheeses, and proteins – perfect for brunches, BBQs, or any event that needs a showstopping centerpiece.


Ingredients

  • Cucumber, diced
  • Bell peppers (varied colors), diced
  • Radishes, sliced or diced
  • Watermelon or mango cubes
  • Cherry tomatoes
  • Avocado, cubed
  • Feta or goat cheese, cubed
  • Grilled chicken or marinated tofu, cubed
  • Fresh herbs: parsley, mint, basil (chopped)
  • Optional: pickled onions, olives, roasted corn
  • For dressing: olive oil, lemon juice, honey, tahini, garlic (as per choice)

Instructions

  1. Prepare all ingredients: cube fruits, vegetables, cheese, and proteins into ½ to ¾ inch pieces.
  2. Use a flat square or rectangular platter to serve.
  3. Mentally mark out a 4×4 or 5×5 grid on your platter.
  4. Place contrasting ingredients side-by-side to create a checkerboard pattern.
  5. Alternate colors and textures (e.g., feta next to tomatoes, cucumber next to mango).
  6. Keep wet items like tomatoes and pickles for last-minute assembly.
  7. Once the grid is filled, garnish with herbs, olive oil drizzle, or cracked pepper.
  8. Optionally, serve with a side of citrus-mint vinaigrette or creamy garlic tahini.
  9. Snap a photo and enjoy!

Notes

To keep ingredients fresh and crisp, prep up to one day ahead and assemble just before serving. Chill soft items like avocado before cutting for best shape retention.

  • Prep Time: 30 minutes
  • Cook Time: 0 minutes
  • Category: Salad
  • Method: Raw/Assembled
  • Cuisine: Fusion/Modern

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 plate
  • Calories: 220
  • Sugar: 6g
  • Sodium: 350mg
  • Fat: 14g
  • Saturated Fat: 4g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 9g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 16g
  • Fiber: 4g
  • Protein: 8g
  • Cholesterol: 10mg