Mixed Greens Salad with Vinaigrette
A crisp and refreshing mixed greens salad tossed in a simple, zesty lemon vinaigrette. This light and healthy side dish is incredibly versatile and comes together in just a few minutes, making it the perfect start to any meal.
For 4 servings
3 steps.
- 1
Step 1
- a.Prepare the vinaigrette
- b.In a small bowl or jar, whisk together the extra virgin olive oil, fresh lemon juice, and dijon mustard until well combined.
- c.Season with salt and freshly ground black pepper.
- d.Whisk again to emulsify the dressing.
- 2
Step 2
- a.Assemble the salad
- b.In a large salad bowl, combine the mixed greens, halved cherry tomatoes, and sliced cucumber.
- c.Gently toss the vegetables 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 greens are lightly coated.
- d.Divide into four bowls and serve immediately.
What to keep in mind.
4 tips from the recipe — small details that make a real difference to the final dish.
- 1For the best flavor, use freshly squeezed lemon juice, not the bottled kind.
- 2To prevent a soggy salad, always add the dressing right before you plan to serve it.
- 3You can make the vinaigrette ahead of time. Store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to a week. Just shake or whisk well before using.
- 4Feel free to add other fresh vegetables like sliced red onion, bell peppers, or shredded carrots.
Adapt it for your goals.
High protein
Add 1/4 cup of chickpeas or a sprinkle of toasted sunflower seeds to each serving for a protein boost.
healthyHealthy
For a different flavor profile, substitute the lemon juice with apple cider vinegar. Add fresh herbs like parsley or dill for extra nutrients.
kid friendlyKid friendly
Add some sweet corn or shredded carrots to make it more appealing for kids. You can also add a tiny pinch of maple syrup to the dressing to balance the tanginess.
Why this is on our healthy list.
Rich in Vitamins
Leafy greens are an excellent source of vitamins A, C, and K, which are important for vision, immune function, and bone health.
Heart-Healthy Fats
Extra virgin olive oil provides monounsaturated fats, which are known to support cardiovascular health.
Hydrating
With high water content from cucumber and tomatoes, this salad helps contribute to your daily hydration needs.
Frequently asked questions
Yes, this salad is very healthy. It's packed with vitamins, minerals, and fiber from the fresh vegetables and contains healthy fats from the olive oil. It's low in calories and naturally vegan and gluten-free.