Imagine a vibrant bowl of fresh greens, bursting with flavor and color. This mixed green salad with lemon vinaigrette is the perfect way to brighten up your meal. Whether you’re looking for a light lunch or a refreshing side dish, this salad delivers a crisp, tangy taste that will awaken your palate.
The combination of crunchy greens and a zesty lemon vinaigrette creates a delightful balance that is both refreshing and satisfying. It’s a simple yet elegant dish that can be whipped up in just minutes, making it an ideal choice for busy days or casual gatherings.
A Perfectly Balanced Mixed Green Salad
This mixed green salad showcases an enticing array of fresh greens, including peppery arugula, tender spinach, and crisp romaine. These greens aren’t just visually appealing; they offer a delightful crunch and a medley of flavors that bring the dish to life.
Each bite provides a refreshing experience, complemented by the vibrant colors of bright red cherry tomatoes and delicate slices of cucumber. The combination of textures and flavors is well-balanced, making it an ideal addition to any meal.
The Zesty Lemon Vinaigrette
The dressing is where this salad truly shines. A glossy lemon vinaigrette adds a tangy twist that enhances the fresh greens. Made with olive oil, fresh lemon juice, and a hint of Dijon mustard, this vinaigrette brings a refreshing brightness to the salad.
Whisking the ingredients together creates a smooth blend that coats the greens perfectly. The acidity from the lemon juice brightens the flavors, while the olive oil provides a rich, smooth finish. This dressing is not only simple to make but also elevates the salad to new heights.
Colorful Ingredients That Delight
Aside from the mixed greens and dressing, the ingredients play a crucial role in the overall appeal of the salad. Halved cherry tomatoes add a pop of color and juiciness, while thinly sliced cucumbers introduce a refreshing crunch.
For those who enjoy a bit more flavor, adding thin slices of red onion can provide a slight bite that contrasts beautifully with the other ingredients. If desired, a sprinkle of crumbled feta cheese can add a creamy texture, enriching the salad even more.
Serving Suggestions
This vibrant salad can be enjoyed in numerous ways. It serves as a light lunch option or a crisp side dish for dinner, pairing well with grilled meats or hearty pasta dishes.
For a more substantial meal, consider topping it with grilled chicken or chickpeas, transforming it into a filling main course. The flexibility of this salad allows it to adapt to various dining experiences, making it a go-to recipe for any occasion.
Preparation Made Easy
One of the benefits of this mixed green salad is its quick preparation time. Within just 10 minutes, you can have a fresh and colorful dish ready to serve.
Simply toss the greens, vegetables, and dressing together, and you’re set. This ease of preparation makes it an excellent choice for busy weeknights or spontaneous gatherings with friends and family.
Nutritional Benefits
While this salad is undeniably delicious, it also offers numerous nutritional benefits. Packed with vitamins and minerals from the greens and vegetables, it is a great way to add more nutrients to your diet.
With approximately 150 calories per serving, it’s a light yet satisfying option that provides healthy fats from olive oil and a touch of protein from feta cheese if included. This salad can be a fantastic addition to a balanced meal plan, supporting a healthy lifestyle.
A Perfectly Balanced Mixed Green Salad
This salad features a delightful mix of fresh greens such as arugula, spinach, and romaine, tossed with a light and zesty lemon vinaigrette. The flavors are bright and the textures are crisp, making it a wonderful accompaniment to any meal.
Ingredients
- 4 cups mixed greens (arugula, spinach, romaine)
- 1/2 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1/4 cup cucumber, thinly sliced
- 1/4 cup red onion, thinly sliced
- 1/4 cup feta cheese, crumbled (optional)
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Prepare the Greens: In a large bowl, combine the mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, and red onion.
- Make the Vinaigrette: In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper until well combined.
- Dress the Salad: Pour the lemon vinaigrette over the salad and toss gently to coat all the ingredients evenly.
- Serve: Top with crumbled feta cheese if desired and serve immediately for the best flavor and freshness.
Cook and Prep Times
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 10 minutes
Nutrition Information
- Servings: 4 servings
- Calories: 150kcal
- Fat: 13g
- Protein: 3g
- Carbohydrates: 7g
