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–+ servings
Best Simple Side Salad

Best Simple Side Salad with Fresh Balsamic Vinaigrette

Discover the Best Simple Side Salad that's vibrant, healthy, and quick to make—perfect for any meal!
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Total Time 15 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Salads
Cuisine: American
Calories: 150
Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Salad
  • 1 head Romaine Lettuce or Mixed Greens Can use spinach for a softer touch
  • 1 medium Cucumber Use English cucumber for fewer seeds or zucchini for a twist
  • 1 cup Tomatoes (Cherry or Halved) Substitute with grape tomatoes or seasonal varieties
  • 1/4 medium Red Onion Replace with green onions for a milder flavor
  • 1/2 cup Kalamata Olives Black olives can be used as an alternative
  • 1/2 cup Crumbled Feta Optional; skip for a dairy-free version
For the Balsamic Vinaigrette
  • 1/4 cup Extra Virgin Olive Oil Avocado oil can be used for a lighter flavor
  • 2 tablespoons Balsamic Vinegar Substitute with red wine vinegar for a sharper taste
  • 1 teaspoon Dijon Mustard Omit for a milder flavor if desired
  • 1/4 teaspoon Garlic Powder
  • to taste Salt Fresh minced garlic can add a robust kick

Equipment

  • Mixing Bowl
  • salad bowl
  • cutting board
  • knife
  • whisk
  • salad tongs

Method
 

Preparation
  1. In a small mixing bowl, whisk together olive oil, balsamic vinegar, Dijon mustard, garlic powder, and salt until smooth and emulsified.
  2. Wash and dry the romaine lettuce or mixed greens thoroughly, then chop into bite-sized pieces.
  3. Slice the cucumber, cut the tomatoes in halves or quarters, and thinly slice the red onion.
  4. Combine all prepared greens and vegetables in a large salad bowl and gently toss.
  5. Drizzle the homemade balsamic vinaigrette over the salad and toss gently to coat before serving.

Nutrition

Serving: 1servingCalories: 150kcalCarbohydrates: 10gProtein: 3gFat: 12gSaturated Fat: 2gPolyunsaturated Fat: 2gMonounsaturated Fat: 8gCholesterol: 5mgSodium: 200mgPotassium: 300mgFiber: 3gSugar: 2gVitamin A: 1500IUVitamin C: 25mgCalcium: 200mgIron: 1mg

Notes

Store any leftover salad in an airtight container without dressing for up to 3 days. Keep the balsamic vinaigrette in the fridge for up to 1 week, shaking well before use.

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