This classic house salad is colorful and fresh, featuring crisp greens, juicy tomatoes, crunchy cucumbers, and a sprinkle of cheese. Perfect as a side dish or a light meal!
I love how easy it is to whip up this salad. Just chop, toss, and enjoy! Don’t forget your favorite dressing—it’s like giving your salad a little hug. 🥗❤️
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Mixed Salad Greens: I love using a combination of romaine, iceberg, and spinach for texture and nutrition. Feel free to swap with arugula or kale for a different flavor.
Cherry Tomatoes: These add a burst of sweetness. If out of season, substitute with diced regular tomatoes or sun-dried tomatoes for a tangy kick.
Cucumber: Slice them for crunch! You can use Persian cucumbers for less bitterness, or substitute with bell peppers if you prefer.
Red Onion: Thinly sliced red onions provide sharpness. If you find them too strong, try using green onions or shallots for a milder taste.
Cheese: I enjoy adding shredded cheddar or mozzarella, but for a tangier option, try feta or goat cheese instead. If you’re vegan, skip the cheese or use a plant-based alternative.
How Do I Make a Great Vinaigrette Dressing?
Making the vinaigrette is simple, but it can elevate your salad. Here’s how to get it just right:
- Start by measuring the olive oil and vinegar in a small bowl or jar.
- Add Dijon mustard, minced garlic, sugar or honey, and a pinch of salt and pepper.
- Whisk or shake well until everything is emulsified, meaning it should look nice and smooth.
- Always taste before adding more seasoning. Adjust salt, pepper, or sweetness to suit your taste.
Tip: Make extra vinaigrette and store in the fridge for up to a week; it’s great on other salads too!
The Best Classic House Salad
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Salad:
- 6 cups mixed salad greens (such as romaine, iceberg, and spinach), washed and dried
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 medium cucumber, sliced
- 1/2 red onion, thinly sliced
- 1/2 cup shredded carrots
- 1/2 cup radishes, thinly sliced
- 1/2 cup shredded cheddar or mozzarella cheese (optional)
- 1/4 cup croutons (optional)
- 1/4 cup black olives, sliced (optional)
For the Classic Vinaigrette Dressing:
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 2 tablespoons red wine vinegar
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- 1 garlic clove, minced
- 1/2 teaspoon sugar or honey
- Salt and pepper, to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delightful house salad takes about 15 minutes to prepare. It’s quick and easy, perfect for a weeknight side dish or a light meal. No cooking required, just chopping and mixing!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Salad Ingredients:
In a large salad bowl, combine the washed and dried mixed salad greens, halved cherry tomatoes, sliced cucumber, thinly sliced red onion, shredded carrots, thinly sliced radishes, and black olives if you’re using them. Make sure all the veggies are evenly distributed for a colorful presentation!
2. Make the Vinaigrette Dressing:
In a small jar or bowl, whisk together the olive oil, red wine vinegar, Dijon mustard, minced garlic, sugar or honey, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Whisk until everything is well combined and looks smooth—this is your tasty dressing!
3. Dress the Salad:
Drizzle the vinaigrette dressing over the salad ingredients in the bowl. Now, gently toss everything together with tongs or a large spoon until all the veggies are coated in the dressing. This helps bring all the flavors together!
4. Add the Finishing Touches:
If you like, sprinkle shredded cheese and croutons on top. These add a delicious crunch and extra flavor. You can also skip the cheese for a lighter option.
5. Serve & Enjoy!
Serve the salad immediately as a refreshing side or add some grilled chicken, shrimp, or beans to make it a complete meal. Enjoy your fresh and colorful classic house salad!
FAQ for The Best Classic House Salad
Can I Use Different Greens in This Salad?
Absolutely! While romaine, iceberg, and spinach are great choices, you can use arugula, kale, or mixed baby greens for a different flavor and texture. Just ensure they’re fresh and washed before use!
How Can I Make This Salad Vegan?
To make this salad vegan, simply omit the cheese and croutons, or use vegan cheese and croutons made without dairy. The vinaigrette is already vegan-friendly, so you’re all set!
What’s the Best Way to Store Leftovers?
If you have leftover salad, store the veggies in an airtight container without dressing for up to 2 days in the fridge. Add the dressing just before serving to keep everything fresh and crisp!
Can I Prepare This Salad in Advance?
You can prep the ingredients ahead of time! Chop the veggies and store them separately in the fridge for up to a day. Just toss everything together with the dressing when you’re ready to serve for the best flavor and texture.
