Garden Salad
A crisp and refreshing mix of classic garden vegetables tossed in a zesty homemade vinaigrette. This simple, vibrant salad is the perfect side for any meal, ready in minutes.
Ingredients
For 4 servings
Nutrition per Serving
Instructions
- 1
Prepare the salad vegetables
- Wash and thoroughly dry the romaine lettuce, then chop into bite-sized pieces.
- Halve the cherry tomatoes, slice the cucumber, and thinly slice the red onion.
- Shred the carrot and chop the green bell pepper.
- Combine all prepared vegetables in a large salad bowl.
- 2
Make the vinaigrette dressing
- In a small bowl or a jar with a lid, add the olive oil, red wine vinegar, Dijon mustard, and minced garlic.
- Add the sugar (if using), salt, and black pepper.
- Whisk vigorously or seal the jar and shake well until the dressing is emulsified and well combined.
- 3
Toss and serve the salad
- Just before serving, pour about half of the dressing over the vegetables.
- Toss gently to coat everything evenly, adding more dressing as needed to your preference.
- Top with croutons and serve immediately for the best crunch.
Pro Tips
- 1Ensure your lettuce is completely dry before tossing. A salad spinner works best. This helps the dressing cling to the leaves instead of pooling at the bottom.
- 2For the best flavor, let the vinaigrette sit for at least 10 minutes before using to allow the flavors to meld.
- 3Only dress the amount of salad you plan to eat. Undressed, chopped vegetables will stay fresh in the fridge for a couple of days.
- 4Store leftover dressing in an airtight jar in the refrigerator for up to one week. It may separate, so just shake it well before using.
- 5Feel free to add other vegetables like radishes, celery, or olives for more texture and flavor.
Recipe Variations
High protein
Add 1 cup of cooked chickpeas, grilled chicken strips, or a chopped hard-boiled egg for a protein boost.
Vegan
The base salad and dressing are vegan. Ensure your croutons are vegan or make your own from stale bread and olive oil.
Gluten free
Use certified gluten-free croutons or omit them entirely. The rest of the salad is naturally gluten-free.
Healthy
Reduce the olive oil in the dressing to 2 tablespoons and use a minimal amount of dressing on the salad to lower the calorie count.
Kid friendly
Use a milder lettuce like iceberg, and add sweet corn or shredded cheese. Serve the dressing on the side for dipping.
Health Benefits
Rich in Vitamins and Minerals
The variety of fresh vegetables provides essential vitamins like A, C, and K, as well as minerals like potassium and folate, which support overall health.
High in Fiber
Lettuce, carrots, and other vegetables are excellent sources of dietary fiber, which aids digestion, promotes gut health, and helps you feel full.
Source of Healthy Fats
The dressing is made with extra virgin olive oil, a great source of monounsaturated fats that are beneficial for heart health.
Hydrating
Vegetables like cucumber and lettuce have high water content, which contributes to your daily hydration needs.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Garden Salad healthy?
Yes, a garden salad is very healthy. It's packed with vitamins, minerals, and fiber from the fresh vegetables. The homemade vinaigrette uses healthy fats from olive oil. It's a great way to increase your vegetable intake.
How many calories are in this Garden Salad?
One serving (about 2 cups) of this garden salad with dressing has approximately 150-200 calories. Most of the calories come from the olive oil in the dressing and the croutons.
Can I make this salad ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the components ahead of time. Chop the vegetables and store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. The dressing can be made and stored separately for up to a week. Combine and toss just before serving to prevent sogginess.
What other dressings work well with this salad?
This salad is very versatile! It would also be delicious with a creamy ranch, a simple balsamic vinaigrette, or a light lemon-herb dressing.
About This Garden Salad Recipe
A crisp and refreshing mix of classic garden vegetables tossed in a zesty homemade vinaigrette. This simple, vibrant salad is the perfect side for any meal, ready in minutes.
This american recipe takes 15 minutes to prepare and yields 4 servings. At 217.15 calories per serving with 3.15g of protein, it's a beginner-friendly recipe perfect for lunch or dinner or side.
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