Simple Green Salad
A crisp and refreshing green salad with cherry tomatoes, cucumber, and red onion, tossed in a classic homemade balsamic vinaigrette. The perfect simple side to any meal, ready in just 10 minutes.
For 4 servings
Make the balsamic vinaigrette
1.In a small bowl or a jar with a lid, combine the extra virgin olive oil, balsamic vinegar, dijon mustard, and minced garlic.2.Add the salt and freshly ground black pepper.3.Whisk well or shake the jar vigorously until the dressing is emulsified and well combined.Assemble the salad
1.In a large salad bowl, add the chopped romaine lettuce, halved cherry tomatoes, sliced cucumber, and thinly sliced red onion.2.Pour about half of the vinaigrette over the salad to start.3.Gently toss the salad until all the ingredients are lightly coated with the dressing.4.Add more dressing if needed and toss again.Serve immediately
1.Divide the salad among four serving plates.2.Serve right away to ensure the lettuce stays 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, let the vinaigrette sit for at least 10 minutes before using to allow the garlic flavor to meld.
- 2Make sure your lettuce is completely dry before tossing with the dressing. This helps the dressing stick to the leaves.
- 3Don't dress the salad until you are ready to serve, as the vinegar will make the lettuce wilt.
- 4You can make a larger batch of the vinaigrette and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week.
- 5For a touch of sweetness, add half a teaspoon of honey or maple syrup to the vinaigrette.
Adapt it for your goals.
High protein
Add 1 cup of chickpeas, grilled chicken strips, or a chopped hard-boiled egg for a protein boost.
veganVegan
This recipe is naturally vegan. Just ensure your Dijon mustard does not contain any non-vegan ingredients.
kid friendlyKid friendly
Use a milder lettuce like iceberg or butter lettuce, and add some shredded mozzarella or cheddar cheese.
healthyHealthy
Add other nutrient-dense vegetables like shredded carrots, bell peppers, or a handful of spinach for extra vitamins.
Why this is on our healthy list.
Rich in Vitamins and Minerals
The fresh vegetables like lettuce, tomatoes, and cucumber provide essential vitamins like Vitamin K and C, as well as minerals and antioxidants.
Source of Healthy Fats
Extra virgin olive oil is a key component of the Mediterranean diet and provides heart-healthy monounsaturated fats.
Hydrating and Low-Calorie
With a high water content from cucumber and lettuce, this salad is hydrating and low in calories, making it a great choice for a light side dish.
Frequently asked questions
Yes, it's very healthy. It's packed with vitamins, minerals, and fiber from the fresh vegetables, and contains healthy monounsaturated fats from the olive oil in the dressing.
