Simple Side Salad with Lemon Vinaigrette
A vibrant and refreshing side salad featuring crisp mixed greens, cool cucumber, and juicy cherry tomatoes, all tossed in a bright, homemade lemon vinaigrette. It's the perfect light accompaniment to any meal.
For 2 servings
Wash and thoroughly dry the mixed greens. If using a salad spinner, this is the ideal time to ensure greens are crisp and dressing adheres well.
Prepare the vegetables: Slice the cucumber into thin half-moons or small dice. Halve the cherry tomatoes. Thinly slice the red onion.
In a small bowl, whisk together the extra virgin olive oil, fresh lemon juice, Dijon mustard, salt, and black pepper until well emulsified and creamy. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
In a large salad bowl, combine the washed mixed greens, sliced cucumber, halved cherry tomatoes, and sliced red onion.
Just before serving, drizzle about half of the prepared lemon vinaigrette over the salad.
Gently toss the salad using tongs or clean hands until all the vegetables are lightly coated with the dressing. Add more dressing if desired, but avoid over-dressing to prevent sogginess.
Serve immediately as a refreshing starter or a vibrant side dish alongside your main course.
What to keep in mind.
4 tips from the recipe — small details that make a real difference to the final dish.
- 1Dry Greens Thoroughly: Excess water on greens will dilute your dressing and make the salad soggy. Use a salad spinner or pat dry with paper towels for best results.
- 2Dress Just Before Serving: To prevent the greens from wilting and maintain their crisp texture, always add the dressing right before you plan to eat.
- 3Balance Your Vinaigrette: A good basic vinaigrette ratio is 3 parts oil to 1 part acid (lemon juice or vinegar). Adjust to your taste, adding a pinch of sugar or honey if the lemon is too tart.
- 4Make Dressing Ahead: The lemon vinaigrette can be made up to 3-4 days in advance and stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Whisk vigorously again before use.
Adapt it for your goals.
Protein Boost
Add grilled chicken, chickpeas, crumbled feta cheese, or toasted nuts for a more substantial meal or added texture.
Herbaceous TwistHerbaceous Twist
Incorporate fresh herbs like chopped parsley, dill, or mint for an aromatic lift and additional fresh flavor.
Seasonal VeggiesSeasonal Veggies
Customize with seasonal vegetables such as bell peppers, shredded carrots, radishes, or even some thinly sliced avocado for variety.
Why this is on our healthy list.
Rich in Vitamins and Minerals
Mixed greens provide a wealth of vitamins A, C, and K, along with folate and iron, supporting overall health, immunity, and bone density.
Hydration and Fiber
Cucumber and mixed greens contribute significantly to daily hydration and are excellent sources of dietary fiber, aiding digestion and promoting satiety.
Antioxidant Power
Lemon juice is packed with Vitamin C, a powerful antioxidant that helps protect cells from damage caused by free radicals and supports skin health and collagen production.
Frequently asked questions
You can prepare and chop all the vegetables and make the dressing separately. Store them in airtight containers in the refrigerator. Combine and dress the salad just before serving to maintain freshness and prevent wilting.
