Simple Green Salad with Lemon Vinaigrette
A crisp and refreshing side salad featuring a mix of fresh greens, juicy tomatoes, and crunchy cucumber, all tossed in a zesty homemade lemon vinaigrette. The perfect light accompaniment to any meal.
For 4 servings
Prepare the Lemon Vinaigrette
- In a small bowl or jar, combine the extra virgin olive oil, fresh lemon juice, and dijon mustard.
- Add the salt and freshly ground black pepper.
- Whisk vigorously or shake the jar until the dressing is well emulsified and slightly thickened.
Assemble the Salad
- In a large salad bowl, add the mixed greens, halved cherry tomatoes, sliced cucumber, and thinly sliced red onion.
- Pour the prepared lemon vinaigrette over the salad ingredients.
- Gently toss everything together until the vegetables are lightly and evenly coated with the dressing.
Serve Immediately
- Divide the salad among four plates.
- Serve immediately for the best crispness and texture.
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.
- 2Make sure your greens are completely dry before tossing with the dressing; this helps it stick better.
- 3You can make the vinaigrette ahead of time and store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to a week.
- 4Don't dress the salad until you're ready to serve, as the greens will wilt over time.
Adapt it for your goals.
High protein
Add 1/2 cup of chickpeas or some grilled chicken breast to make it a more substantial meal.
healthyHealthy
Incorporate other vegetables like bell peppers, carrots, or radishes for added nutrients and crunch.
kid friendlyKid friendly
Add some croutons or a sprinkle of shredded cheese to make it more appealing to kids.
Why this is on our healthy list.
Rich in Vitamins
Mixed greens and fresh vegetables provide essential vitamins like Vitamin C, Vitamin K, and folate, which support immune function and overall health.
Good Source of Fiber
The high fiber content from the vegetables aids in digestion and helps you feel full and satisfied.
Contains Healthy Fats
Extra virgin olive oil is a great source of 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 monounsaturated fats from the olive oil. It's low in calories and high in fiber.
