Side Salad with Vinaigrette
A crisp, refreshing side salad featuring mixed greens, cucumber, and cherry tomatoes, all tossed in a zesty lemon and olive oil vinaigrette. The perfect light and healthy addition to any meal.
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, lemon juice, dijon mustard, and maple syrup.
- c.Add the salt and 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 greens, sliced cucumber, halved cherry tomatoes, and thinly sliced red onion.
- c.Just before serving, pour the vinaigrette over the salad.
- d.Toss gently to coat all the ingredients evenly.
- 3
Step 3
- a.Serve immediately
- b.Divide the salad among four plates and serve right away for the best crispness.
What to keep in mind.
4 tips from the recipe — small details that make a real difference to the final dish.
- 1For best results, dress the salad just before serving to prevent the greens from becoming soggy.
- 2You can make the vinaigrette up to a week in advance. Store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
- 3Feel free to add other vegetables like bell peppers, carrots, or radishes for extra crunch and color.
- 4To mellow the bite of the red onion, soak the slices in cold water for 10 minutes, then drain well before adding to the salad.
Adapt it for your goals.
Healthy
Add a tablespoon of chia seeds or hemp hearts to the dressing for a boost of omega-3s and fiber.
gluten freeGluten free
This recipe is naturally gluten-free. For added crunch, top with gluten-free croutons or toasted sunflower seeds.
kid friendlyKid friendly
Use a milder lettuce like romaine or butter lettuce and cut the vegetables into smaller, bite-sized pieces. You can also reduce the amount of onion.
high proteinHigh protein
To make this a more substantial meal, add 1/2 cup of chickpeas or some baked tofu to each serving.
Why this is on our healthy list.
Rich in Vitamins
Mixed greens are an excellent source of vitamins A, C, and K, which are important for vision, immune function, and bone health.
Hydrating
Cucumbers are over 95% water, making this salad a great way to help you stay hydrated.
Heart-Healthy Fats
The extra virgin olive oil in the vinaigrette provides monounsaturated fats, which are beneficial for heart health.
Frequently asked questions
Yes, this salad is very healthy. It's packed with vitamins and minerals from the fresh vegetables and contains healthy fats from the olive oil. It's low in calories and high in fiber.