Name: Simple Side Salad with Easy Balsamic Vinaigrette Delight
Prep time: 15 min
Total time: 15 min
Ingredients: 4 cups Mixed Leafy Greens (or Romaine Lettuce); 1 medium Cucumber; 1 cup Cherry Tomatoes; 1/4 small Red Onion; 1 handful Kalamata Olives; 1 cup Feta Cheese (optional); 1/4 cup Extra Virgin Olive Oil; 2 tablespoons Balsamic Vinegar; 1 teaspoon Dijon Mustard; 1/2 teaspoon Garlic Powder; 1 pinch Salt

As I stood by the kitchen counter, the aroma of fresh herbs and vegetables danced through the air, teasing my senses. Nothing quite compares to the satisfaction of whipping up a fresh and vibrant Simple Side Salad with Easy Balsamic Vinaigrette in just 15 minutes. This salad is versatile and a perfect companion to elevate any meal, whether it’s a quick lunch or a festive dinner. Packed with crunchy romaine, juicy cucumbers, and bright cherry tomatoes, it’s a tantalizing offering that also manages to be gluten-free, vegetarian, and vegan-friendly. Plus, with its quick prep time, you can easily customize it to suit your taste buds and lifestyle. So why not jazz up your next meal with a splash of color and a burst of flavor? What variations will you try to make it your own?

Why is This Salad a Must-Try?

Vibrant Colors: The mix of fresh, colorful vegetables creates an eye-catching dish that you can’t resist.
Quick Preparation: In just 15 minutes, you can serve a salad that impresses.
Endless Variations: Customize with different greens, toppings, or proteins—perfect for every occasion.
Healthy Choice: Naturally gluten-free and packed with nutrients, this salad fits any diet!
Deliciously Versatile: It matches excellently with various main dishes, just like Steakhouse Potato Salad or Thanksgiving Side Dishes.
With its rich flavors and textures, this simple side salad is sure to become a go-to favorite!

Simple Side Salad Ingredients

• Fresh, crunchy ingredients come together for a delightful treat!

For the Salad

Mixed Leafy Greens (or Romaine Lettuce) – Provides structure and crunch; use a mix for varied texture.
Cucumber – Adds coolness and hydration; substitute with zucchini for a different taste.
Cherry Tomatoes – Offers sweetness and color; use chopped regular tomatoes if necessary.
Red Onion – Contributes sharpness and bite; soak in water to mellow flavor if needed.
Kalamata Olives – Introduces brininess and depth; black olives can be used as an alternative.
Feta Cheese – Adds creaminess and saltiness (optional for dairy-free); substitute with vegan feta or omit for a lighter salad.

For the Dressing

Extra Virgin Olive Oil – Serves as the salad dressing’s fat component; can consider avocado oil for a different flavor.
Balsamic Vinegar – Adds acidity and sweetness to the vinaigrette; substitute with apple cider vinegar for variations.
Dijon Mustard – Emulsifies vinaigrette and enhances flavor; omit for a milder dressing.
Garlic Powder & Salt – Seasonings that elevate the dressing; use fresh minced garlic for a stronger flavor.

Embrace the simplicity of this simple side salad and create magic in your kitchen!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Simple Side Salad

Step 1: Prepare the Vinaigrette
In a small bowl, whisk together 1/4 cup of extra virgin olive oil, 2 tablespoons of balsamic vinegar, 1 teaspoon of Dijon mustard, 1/2 teaspoon of garlic powder, and a pinch of salt. Continue whisking until the mixture is well combined and emulsified, achieving a smooth and glossy dressing. This easy balsamic vinaigrette can be made ahead of time for more convenient meal prep.

Step 2: Prepare the Mixed Greens
Rinse your leafy greens thoroughly under cold water to remove any dirt. Spin the greens dry in a salad spinner, which helps to maintain their crisp texture. In a large mixing bowl, tear the greens into bite-sized pieces, creating a vibrant base for your Simple Side Salad. Aim for about 4 cups as your salad foundation for a balanced mix.

Step 3: Chop the Vegetables
Slice 1 cucumber into thin rounds and halve a handful of cherry tomatoes, allowing their natural sweetness to show through. If using red onion, thinly slice about a quarter of a small onion; you can soak the slices in cold water for 10 minutes to mellow the sharpness. Add these chopped vegetables to the bowl with the mixed greens, creating a colorful medley.

Step 4: Add Olives and Feta
Stir in a handful of sliced Kalamata olives for a briny flavor and a generous handful of crumbled feta cheese, if you’re using it. Both ingredients will introduce exciting flavors and textures to your Simple Side Salad. Toss gently to combine the ingredients without bruising the greens, ensuring each bite is a mixture of delicious tastes.

Step 5: Dress and Toss the Salad
Just before serving, drizzle the prepared balsamic vinaigrette over the salad. Use your hands or salad tongs to toss the ingredients gently, ensuring everything is coated evenly with the dressing. The colors should appear vibrant, and the salad should look enticing and fresh, ready to elevate your meal.

Step 6: Serve Beautifully
Transfer the tossed salad onto a flat platter or a large serving bowl to enhance its visual appeal. For an inviting presentation, consider garnishing with additional feta crumbles or a sprinkle of fresh herbs, like parsley or basil. This Simple Side Salad not only tastes delightful but will also impress your guests with its vibrant display.

Make Ahead Options

These vibrant Simple Side Salad components are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can prepare the balsamic vinaigrette up to 3 days in advance, storing it in an airtight container in the refrigerator to maintain its freshness. Additionally, wash and chop the mixed leafy greens, cucumbers, and cherry tomatoes; keep them in separate containers for up to 24 hours to preserve their crispness. Just before serving, toss the salad with the vinaigrette for a burst of flavor and to prevent sogginess. With these make-ahead tips, you can enjoy a delicious homemade salad effortlessly during your busy week!

What to Serve with Best Simple Side Salad with Easy Balsamic Vinaigrette

Elevate your dining experience by pairing this fresh salad with complementary dishes that enhance its vibrant flavors and textures.

Grilled Chicken: Juicy, tender chicken adds protein to your meal, making it satisfying while harmonizing beautifully with the salad’s zingy vinaigrette.
Garlic Bread: Crispy, buttery slices of garlic bread provide a comforting crunch, perfect for scooping up those delicious salad bites!
Quinoa Bowl: A warm quinoa base brings a nutty flavor and hearty texture, creating a fulfilling meal when nestled alongside the salad. The protein-rich grains balance the fresh ingredients beautifully.
Stuffed Bell Peppers: Colorful and savory, these peppers filled with rice and spices complement the refreshing qualities of the salad, making for a well-rounded dish.
Pasta Primavera: Light, sautéed vegetables tossed in olive oil and garlic meld seamlessly with the refreshing salad, allowing for a delightful taste of Mediterranean cuisine.
Fruit Infused Water: Staying hydrated has never been more enjoyable! Add subtle flavors of berries or citrus to your water, offering a refreshing drink that matches the salad’s vibrant nature.

Storage Tips for Simple Side Salad

Fridge: Store any leftover simple side salad in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. Dressing should be kept separate to maintain freshness.

Leftover Dressing: The balsamic vinaigrette can be refrigerated for up to 1 week in a sealed jar. Give it a good shake before using it again!

Room Temperature: It’s best not to leave the salad out at room temperature for longer than 1 hour to ensure food safety and prevent wilting.

Reheating: Avoid reheating the salad; instead, enjoy it cold or at room temperature to preserve the delightful crunch of the fresh ingredients.

Simple Side Salad Variations & Substitutions

Feel free to let your creativity shine and personalize this delightful salad to match your taste buds and preferences!

Dairy-Free: Omit feta cheese or use a vegan alternative to keep the salad light and dairy-free.
Protein-Packed: Add grilled chicken, chickpeas, or quinoa for a heartier salad that transforms it into a full meal.
Seasonal Swaps: Incorporate seasonal veggies like bell peppers or shredded carrots for an exciting and colorful twist.
Crunch Factor: Toss in some toasted nuts or seeds, like walnuts or sunflower seeds, for an added crunch and nutty flavor.
Herb-Infused: Experiment with fresh herbs—basil, cilantro, or dill enhance the salad with aromatic notes that elevate its freshness.
Heat Things Up: Add sliced jalapeños or red pepper flakes for a hint of heat that gives your salad an intriguing kick.
Change Up the Greens: Go for a mix of kale, spinach, or arugula instead of romaine for a nutritional boost and different texture.
Savory Alternative: Consider using black olives instead of Kalamata for a milder brinity that complements the other flavors well.

Whether you enjoy it with a side of Cranberry Orange Salad or want to pair it with one of the Thanksgiving Side Dishes, the versatility of this simple side salad makes it the perfect accompaniment for any occasion. Happy customizing!

Tips for the Best Simple Side Salad

Fresh Ingredients: Always use the freshest greens and vegetables for optimal flavor and crunch. Old, wilted veggies can ruin your simple side salad’s appeal.
Balance of Flavors: Aim for a balance between sweetness, acidity, and saltiness in your vinaigrette. Adjust the ingredients to suit your taste without overwhelming the salad’s freshness.
Dressing Timing: Dress the salad just before serving to maintain the crispness of the greens. Waiting too long can lead to a soggy salad, diminishing its vibrant texture.
Creative Customization: Don’t hesitate to substitute ingredients to match your preferences. Your customizable simple side salad can be made unique with different toppings or dressings!
Visual Presentation: Serve the salad on a flat platter, which not only showcases the ingredients beautifully but also elevates the dining experience with a stunning visual appeal.

Simple Side Salad with Easy Balsamic Vinaigrette Recipe FAQs

How do I choose the best ingredients for my salad?
Absolutely! For the freshest taste, select leafy greens that are vibrant and crisp, avoiding any that have dark spots or wilting. When choosing cucumbers, look for firm, smooth skin, and opt for brightly colored cherry tomatoes. They should be firm to the touch and free of blemishes to ensure sweetness.

How should I store my leftover salad?
Very! Any leftover simple side salad should be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. It’s best to keep the dressing separate until you’re ready to serve the salad again, as this helps to maintain the crunchiness of the greens.

Can I freeze leftovers of this salad?
Not recommended! Freezing this simple side salad isn’t advised due to the high water content in many of the ingredients, especially cucumbers and tomatoes, which can turn mushy upon thawing. Instead, enjoy the salad fresh!

What can I do if my salad dressing becomes too thick?
If your balsamic vinaigrette thickens, simply whisk in a little bit of warm water or extra olive oil until it reaches your desired consistency. This should help to loosen it up and make it easier to toss with your salad.

Is this recipe suitable for people with allergies?
For sure! This salad is naturally gluten-free and can easily be made vegan-friendly by using a dairy-free feta or omitting the cheese altogether. Always be sure to check for allergies with your chosen olives and any additional toppings!

What are some variations I can try for my salad?
You can absolutely get creative! Consider adding grilled chicken or chickpeas for protein. Seasonal vegetables like roasted bell peppers, or even fruits like sliced strawberries, can add interesting flavor notes and textures! Feel free to adjust ingredients based on what you have or what you love. Your simple side salad can truly be for any occasion!