Fresh Garden Salad - Easy and Healthy
A fresh, vibrant Garden Salad is a perfect addition to any meal, or a light, satisfying dish on its own. Crisp greens, juicy tomatoes, crunchy cucumbers, and colorful bell peppers come together in this easy-to-make salad, finished with a simple homemade vinaigrette. This healthy, versatile dish brings the flavors of a summer garden to your table, making it ideal for picnics, potlucks, or a refreshing lunch. Customize with your favorite vegetables or add-ons like cheese or croutons for extra flavor.
Ingredients
- 4 cups mixed salad greens (lettuce, spinach, arugula)
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 cucumber, sliced
- 1 red bell pepper, chopped
- 1/4 red onion, thinly sliced
- 1/2 cup shredded carrots
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 2 tablespoons red wine vinegar
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Optional: feta cheese, croutons, sunflower seeds
Directions
Prepare the vegetables. Start by washing and drying the salad greens, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, bell pepper, and red onion. Slice the vegetables according to the ingredient list.
Assemble the salad. In a large bowl, combine the salad greens, tomatoes, cucumber, bell pepper, onion, and carrots. Toss gently to mix.
Make the dressing. In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, red wine vinegar, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper until emulsified.
Dress the salad. Pour the dressing over the salad just before serving. Toss everything together to coat the vegetables evenly.
Serve immediately, garnished with optional toppings like feta cheese, croutons, or sunflower seeds if desired.
Recipe tips
For the best flavor and texture, always use the freshest produce available. Add a little sweetness with honey or maple syrup to the vinaigrette if you prefer a sweeter dressing. Add protein such as grilled chicken, boiled eggs, or chickpeas to make it more filling. For a refreshing touch, refrigerate the salad for 10 minutes before serving.
Nutrition Facts (per serving)
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