A Mixed Green Salad is a simple, refreshing dish that’s perfect for any meal. It combines a variety of fresh greens with your choice of vegetables, fruits, and a light vinaigrette or dressing. This versatile salad is easy to customize, whether you prefer a zesty lemon dressing, a tangy balsamic vinaigrette, or even a creamy ranch. The crisp texture of the greens pairs beautifully with crunchy veggies, nuts, or seeds, and a hint of sweetness from fruits like apples or berries. It’s the perfect side dish for a light lunch, dinner, or as a base for adding proteins like grilled chicken or shrimp.
Ingredients:
For the Salad:
- 4 cups mixed salad greens (like arugula, spinach, romaine, or baby kale)
- 1 cucumber, thinly sliced
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 small red onion, thinly sliced
- 1 carrot, grated or sliced
- 1 apple or pear, thinly sliced (optional)
- ¼ cup walnuts or sunflower seeds (optional)
- ¼ cup crumbled feta or goat cheese (optional)
For the Dressing:
- 3 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tbsp lemon juice or balsamic vinegar
- 1 tsp Dijon mustard
- 1 tsp honey or maple syrup
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
- Prepare the Salad: In a large bowl, combine the mixed greens, cucumber, cherry tomatoes, red onion, and carrot. Add the sliced apple or pear, nuts, and cheese if using.
- Make the Dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, lemon juice (or balsamic vinegar), Dijon mustard, honey, salt, and pepper until well combined.
- Toss the Salad: Drizzle the dressing over the salad and toss gently to coat the greens and vegetables evenly.
- Serve: Serve the salad immediately as a side dish or top it with your favorite protein for a complete meal.
This Mixed Green Salad is light, crisp, and full of fresh flavors. It’s a versatile dish that pairs well with a wide variety of meals and is perfect for adding a healthy touch to your dining table!