Mixed Green Salad
A crisp, refreshing side salad with mixed greens, juicy cherry tomatoes, and cool cucumber, all tossed in a simple, zesty lemon vinaigrette. The perfect light accompaniment to any main course.
For 4 servings
3 steps.
- 1
Step 1
- a.Prepare the vinaigrette
- b.In a small bowl or jar, combine the extra virgin olive oil, fresh lemon juice, and dijon mustard.
- c.Add the salt and freshly ground black pepper.
- d.Whisk vigorously or shake the jar until the dressing is well combined and emulsified.
- 2
Step 2
- a.Assemble the salad
- b.In a large salad bowl, add the mixed spring greens, halved cherry tomatoes, and sliced cucumber.
- c.Gently toss the vegetables together to distribute them evenly.
- 3
Step 3
- a.Dress and serve
- b.Just before serving, pour the vinaigrette over the salad.
- c.Toss gently until all the ingredients are lightly coated.
- d.Serve immediately to ensure the greens stay crisp.
What to keep in mind.
5 tips from the recipe — small details that make a real difference to the final dish.
- 1For the best flavor, use high-quality extra virgin olive oil and freshly squeezed lemon juice.
- 2Always dress the salad right before serving to prevent the greens from becoming soggy.
- 3You can make the vinaigrette ahead of time and store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to a week.
- 4Ensure your greens are completely dry before adding the dressing; this helps it stick better.
- 5Feel free to add other fresh vegetables like sliced red onions, bell peppers, or carrots.
Adapt it for your goals.
High protein
Add 1 cup of grilled, chopped chicken breast or a can of drained chickpeas to make it a more substantial meal.
healthyHealthy
Add a tablespoon of chia seeds or flax seeds to the vinaigrette for extra fiber and omega-3s.
kid friendlyKid friendly
Add some shredded cheddar cheese and croutons. Use a milder lettuce like romaine or iceberg.
quickQuick
Use a store-bought light vinaigrette instead of making your own to save time.
Why this is on our healthy list.
Rich in Vitamins
Mixed greens and tomatoes are excellent sources of vitamins A, C, and K, which support immune function, skin health, and blood clotting.
Source of Healthy Fats
The extra virgin olive oil in the vinaigrette provides heart-healthy monounsaturated fats, which can help reduce bad cholesterol levels.
Promotes Hydration
Cucumbers are over 95% water, making this salad a refreshing way to contribute to your daily hydration needs.
Low in Calories
This salad is low in calories but high in volume, making it a great choice for weight management by helping you feel full.
Frequently asked questions
Yes, this salad is very healthy. It's packed with vitamins and minerals from the fresh vegetables and provides healthy monounsaturated fats from the olive oil. It's low in calories and high in fiber.