Simple Summer Salad

Simple and fresh describe the best summer lunches. With just four ingredients, and no need to turn on the oven or stovetop, this simple summer salad fills the bill.

I’ve been eating this salad most of my life–I remember my mom bringing home this recipe from work. The crunch of the peppers contrasts with the creamy cottage cheese and juicy tomatoes. The vibrant colors make it a cheerful lunch. Yes, the appearance of your food matters. Get out a sharp knife and a cutting board, and you’ll have a simple and fresh summer salad in a jiffy.

Simple Summer Salad

1 small tomato

1 small bell pepper

1 cup cottage cheese

paprika

Cut tomato and bell pepper into bite-size chunks and place in a bowl. Add cottage cheese and lightly toss. Sprinkle with paprika. Serves one or two, depending on hunger and whether it’s a side dish or main course.

When we moved to our current home nearly eleven years ago, our backyard was a clay wasteland. My husband has patiently added compost and sand each year, and now his garden is beautiful. It has been a good year for bell peppers and tomatoes in Oklahoma. But I think they taste even better knowing that they were grown with love.

Do you have a favorite simple summer salad recipe? Feel free to share!