Simple Side Salad with Lemon Vinaigrette
A crisp and refreshing side salad featuring mixed greens, juicy cherry tomatoes, and cool cucumber, all tossed in a zesty homemade lemon vinaigrette. The perfect light accompaniment to any main course, ready in minutes.
For 4 servings
Prepare the lemon vinaigrette
- In a small bowl or jar, combine the extra virgin olive oil, fresh lemon juice, Dijon mustard, and maple syrup.
- Add the salt and freshly ground black pepper.
- Whisk vigorously or shake the jar until the dressing is well combined and emulsified.
Assemble the salad
- In a large salad bowl, add the mixed greens, halved cherry tomatoes, and sliced cucumber.
- Pour about half of the vinaigrette over the salad to start.
- Gently toss everything together until the vegetables are lightly coated.
- Add more dressing as needed, toss again, 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 best results, use freshly squeezed lemon juice. It makes a world of difference in flavor.
- 2Make the dressing ahead of time and store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to a week. Just shake well before using.
- 3Don't dress the salad until you're ready to serve to prevent the greens from becoming soggy.
- 4Feel free to add other vegetables like thinly sliced red onion, bell peppers, or shredded carrots.
Adapt it for your goals.
High protein
Add 1/2 cup of chickpeas or a sprinkle of toasted sunflower seeds to each serving for a protein boost.
healthyHealthy
Add fresh herbs like parsley, dill, or chives to the dressing for extra flavor and nutrients without adding calories.
kid friendlyKid friendly
Use a milder green like butter lettuce and cut the cucumber into fun shapes. You can also reduce the Dijon mustard slightly.
Why this is on our healthy list.
Rich in Vitamins and Antioxidants
The mixed greens and tomatoes provide a good source of vitamins A, C, and K, as well as antioxidants that help protect your cells from damage.
Source of Healthy Fats
Extra virgin olive oil is rich in monounsaturated fats, which are beneficial for heart health and can help reduce inflammation.
Promotes Hydration
Cucumbers are over 95% water, making this salad a refreshing way to contribute to your daily hydration needs.
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 also low in calories and high in fiber.
