Watercress salad with lemon & mustard dressing

This Watercress Salad with Lemon & Mustard Dressing combines vibrant watercress and spinach with toasted sunflower seeds, all coated in a zesty lemon and mustard dressing. It's a refreshing and nutritious addition to any meal.

24 Jan 2026
Cook time 5 min
Prep time 5 min

Ingredients:

1/3 cup sunflower seeds
1 tbsp watercress
1 package frozen spinach
2 tbsp lemon zest
1 tsp lemon juice
2 tsp mustard
1 tsp sugar
1/3 cup olive oil
salt & pepper to taste
Watercress salad with lemon & mustard dressing

This Watercress Salad with Lemon & Mustard Dressing is a delightful mix of vibrant flavors and refreshing ingredients. The unique combination of watercress, sunflower seeds, and spinach, paired with a zesty lemon and mustard dressing, makes this salad a nutritious and tasty addition to any meal.

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Spinach:
- Thaw the frozen spinach according to the package instructions. Once thawed, drain it thoroughly, using a clean kitchen towel or paper towels to squeeze out any excess water.
2. Toast the Sunflower Seeds:
- In a dry skillet over medium heat, add the sunflower seeds.
- Toast them for about 4-5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they are golden brown and fragrant. Be careful not to burn them.
- Once toasted, set them aside to cool.
3. Make the Dressing:
- In a small bowl, combine 2 tbsp lemon zest, 1 tsp lemon juice, 2 tsp mustard, and 1 tsp sugar.
- Gradually whisk in 1/3 cup olive oil until the dressing is well emulsified.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste. Adjust the seasoning as needed.
4. Assemble the Salad:
- In a large mixing bowl, combine 1 tbsp watercress and the drained spinach.
- Pour the lemon & mustard dressing over the greens.
- Toss the salad gently to ensure the greens are evenly coated with the dressing.
5. Add the Finishing Touches:
- Sprinkle the toasted sunflower seeds over the top of the salad.
- Give the salad a final gentle toss to distribute the seeds throughout.
6. Serve:
- Transfer the salad to a serving bowl or platter.
- Serve immediately and enjoy your fresh watercress salad with lemon & mustard dressing!

With its simple preparation and deliciously refreshing taste, this Watercress Salad with Lemon & Mustard Dressing is sure to become a favorite. Whether you serve it as a side dish or a light main course, it captures the essence of fresh ingredients and vibrant flavors, perfect for any occasion.

Watercress salad with lemon & mustard dressing FAQ:

How should I store leftovers of this salad?

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Keep the dressing separate if possible to prevent the greens from wilting.

Can I use fresh spinach instead of frozen spinach?

Yes, you can use fresh spinach instead of frozen. Just rinse and chop about 6-8 ounces of fresh spinach and skip the thawing step.

What type of mustard works best for the dressing?

Dijon mustard is recommended for its smooth texture and balanced flavor, but you can use yellow mustard if that’s what you have on hand.

How do I know if the sunflower seeds are toasted correctly?

Toast the sunflower seeds for about 4-5 minutes, stirring occasionally. They should be golden brown and fragrant but be careful not to let them burn.

Is there a substitute for sunflower seeds?

Yes, you can use pumpkin seeds (pepitas) or chopped nuts like almonds or walnuts as a substitute for sunflower seeds.

Cooking Tips:

- Toast the sunflower seeds lightly in a dry skillet over medium heat for a few minutes to enhance their nutty flavor.

- Use fresh spinach if available, just ensure to wash and dry it thoroughly before using.

- Adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper according to your taste preference.

- For added flavor, consider adding a splash of balsamic vinegar to the dressing.

- If you prefer a more creamy dressing, you can whisk in a tablespoon of Greek yogurt or mayonnaise.

Nutrition Facts

6 Servings
Calories 60kcal
Protein 2.73g
Carbohydrates 4.19g
Fiber 1.93g
Sugar 1.23g
Fat 18g

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