Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Fresh, light, and flavorful
• Quick and easy to prepare
• Perfect with almost any main course
• Made with simple, everyday ingredients
• Easily customizable
• Healthy and naturally gluten-free
• Great for family dinners, barbecues, and holiday meals

Prep Time

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 0 minutes
• Total Time: 15 minutes

Servings: 4–6

Ingredients

For the Salad

• 5 cups chopped romaine lettuce
• 2 cups mixed salad greens
• 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
• 1 cucumber, thinly sliced
• ½ small red onion, thinly sliced
• ½ cup shredded carrots
• ¼ cup sliced radishes (optional)
• 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley or basil (optional)

For the Homemade Vinaigrette

• 3 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
• 1 tablespoon red wine vinegar
• 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
• 1 teaspoon honey
• 1 small garlic clove, minced
• ½ teaspoon dried oregano
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste

Equipment Needed

• Large salad bowl
• Small mixing bowl or mason jar
• Whisk or fork
• Cutting board
• Sharp knife
• Measuring cups and spoons

How to Make a Simple Side Salad

Step 1: Prepare the Vegetables

Wash and thoroughly dry the lettuce and mixed greens. Chop the romaine into bite-sized pieces. Slice the cucumber, halve the cherry tomatoes, thinly slice the red onion, and shred the carrots if needed.

Step 2: Make the Dressing

In a small bowl or mason jar, combine the olive oil, red wine vinegar, Dijon mustard, honey, minced garlic, oregano, salt, and black pepper. Whisk or shake until the dressing is smooth and well blended.

Step 3: Assemble the Salad

In a large salad bowl, combine the romaine, mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, red onion, shredded carrots, and radishes if using.

Step 4: Toss

Drizzle the dressing over the salad just before serving. Toss gently until all the vegetables are evenly coated.

Step 5: Garnish and Serve

Sprinkle with fresh parsley or basil if desired and serve immediately while the vegetables are crisp and fresh.

Tips for the Best Simple Side Salad

• Dry the lettuce thoroughly to help the dressing cling to the greens.
• Use fresh, seasonal vegetables for the best flavor.
• Add the dressing just before serving to prevent the salad from becoming soggy.
• Chill the salad bowl for an extra-refreshing presentation.
• Taste the dressing before adding it to the salad and adjust the seasoning if needed.
• Mix different leafy greens for added texture and flavor.

Variations

Garden Side Salad

Add bell peppers, celery, and sliced mushrooms for extra crunch.

Mediterranean Salad

Include feta cheese, Kalamata olives, cucumbers, and a sprinkle of oregano.

Caesar-Inspired Salad

Use romaine lettuce, Parmesan cheese, homemade croutons, and Caesar dressing.

Italian Side Salad

Add pepperoncini, mozzarella pearls, olives, and sliced salami for extra flavor.

Avocado Salad

Top with sliced avocado and toasted pumpkin or sunflower seeds for added richness.

Crunchy Salad

Mix in homemade croutons, roasted almonds, walnuts, or pecans for extra texture.

Make-Ahead Instructions

Wash and chop the vegetables up to 2 days in advance and store them in separate airtight containers in the refrigerator. Prepare the dressing up to 1 week ahead and refrigerate it in a sealed jar. Toss everything together just before serving for the freshest results.

Storage

Store leftover undressed salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. If the salad has already been dressed, it’s best enjoyed within 24 hours, as the greens will gradually soften.

Keep any leftover dressing refrigerated in a sealed container for up to 1 week. Shake well before using.

What to Serve with Simple Side Salad

This fresh salad pairs well with:

• Grilled chicken
• Steak
• Baked salmon
• Pasta dishes
• Pizza
• Soup
• Sandwiches
• Burgers
• Roasted vegetables
• Garlic bread
• Rice dishes
• Quiche

Final Thoughts

Simple Side Salad is a timeless recipe that proves fresh ingredients don’t need to be complicated. Crisp lettuce, colorful vegetables, and a light homemade vinaigrette come together to create a refreshing side dish that’s perfect for everyday meals or special occasions. Easy to customize and ready in just minutes, this salad is a healthy, delicious addition to any menu.