Name: Best Simple Side Salad for Bright, Flavorful Meals
Prep time: 10 min
Total time: 10 min
Ingredients: 4 cups Mixed Leafy Greens or Romaine Lettuce (Use any hearty salad greens, such as spinach or arugula.); 1 whole Cucumber (Diced, zucchini can be a substitute.); 1 cup Cherry Tomatoes (Halved, any firm tomato can work.); 1/4 whole Red Onion (Thinly sliced, soak in water to mellow flavor if desired.); 1/2 cup Kalamata Olives (Pitted, can use black or green olives.); 1/2 cup Crumbled Feta (Optional for dairy-free diets; crumbled tofu is a vegan replacement.); 1/4 cup Extra Virgin Olive Oil (High-quality oil for best results.); 2 tablespoons Balsamic Vinegar (Aged balsamic offers a sweeter flavor.); 1 teaspoon Dijon Mustard (Helps emulsify the dressing.); 1/2 teaspoon Garlic Powder (Enhance the flavor profile.); a pinch Salt (Adjust to taste.)

As I reached for the last crisp cucumber from my garden, a wave of excitement washed over me—this was the perfect start to the Best Simple Side Salad. With vibrant romaine lettuce, juicy tomatoes, and a sprinkle of tangy feta, this salad is more than just a delightful complement to any meal; it’s a celebration of fresh ingredients and effortless cooking. Best of all, the Easy Balsamic Vinaigrette brings everything together in a way that’s both quick and satisfying. Whether you’re looking to elevate a weeknight dinner or impress guests at your next gathering, this salad ticks all the boxes for being healthy and refreshingly simple. What unique twists will you add to make it your own?

Why is this salad a must-try?

Vibrant, Fresh Ingredients: This salad showcases the best of seasonal produce, featuring crisp romaine lettuce and juicy tomatoes for a delightful crunch.

Easy Preparation: With just a few steps, you can whip up this simple side salad in no time, making it a perfect choice for busy weeknights or last-minute gatherings.

Versatile Appeal: This dish pairs beautifully with grilled chicken, fish, and pastas, making it an essential addition to any meal. Looking for more side options? Try our Quinoa Chickpea Salad or the refreshing Fruit Salad Refreshing.

Crowd-Pleasing Flavor: The tangy Easy Balsamic Vinaigrette elevates the dish, ensuring everyone at your table will be coming back for seconds!

Customizable for All Diets: Easily adaptable, this salad can cater to gluten-free, vegetarian, and vegan diets.

Best Simple Side Salad Ingredients

For the Salad
• Mixed Leafy Greens or Romaine Lettuce – Provides structure and freshness; use any hearty salad greens, such as spinach or arugula.
• Cucumber – Adds crunch and hydration; zucchini can be a great substitute for a similar texture.
• Cherry Tomatoes – Contributes sweetness and vibrant color; any firm tomato can work when cut into bite-sized pieces.
• Red Onion – Offers a sharp zing; soak in water to mellow the flavor if desired.
• Kalamata Olives – Introduces a delightful briny taste; black or green olives can also be used effectively.
• Crumbled Feta – Adds creaminess and a tangy kick (optional for dairy-free diets); crumbled tofu is a good vegan replacement.

For the Easy Balsamic Vinaigrette
• Extra Virgin Olive Oil – Acts as the dressing base and provides rich flavor; choose high-quality oil for the best results.
• Balsamic Vinegar – Provides acidity and depth; aged balsamic will offer a sweeter flavor profile.
• Dijon Mustard – Helps emulsify the dressing while adding a hint of spiciness.
• Garlic Powder and Salt – Enhance the flavor profile; adjust to taste for the perfect seasoning.

Enjoy creating your own rendition of the Best Simple Side Salad—there’s so much room for creativity!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Best 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 until the mixture is well combined and emulsified. This should take about 2 minutes. Set the vinaigrette aside, allowing the flavors to meld while you assemble the salad.

Step 2: Assemble the Salad
In a large mixing bowl, combine 4 cups of mixed leafy greens or chopped romaine lettuce, 1 diced cucumber, 1 cup of halved cherry tomatoes, 1/4 of a thinly sliced red onion, 1/2 cup of pitted Kalamata olives, and 1/2 cup of crumbled feta (if using). Toss the ingredients gently to ensure even distribution, adding vibrant color and texture to your Best Simple Side Salad.

Step 3: Dress and Serve
Just before serving, pour a desired amount of the prepared balsamic vinaigrette over the salad and gently toss to coat all the ingredients evenly. This will take about a minute. Serve immediately on a flat platter to beautifully display the colors and textures of your fresh salad, ensuring that every bite is as crisp and flavorful as possible.

Best Simple Side Salad Variations

Feel free to mix things up and make this salad truly your own with these vibrant variations!

Dairy-Free: Replace crumbled feta with crumbled tofu or avocado for a creamy texture while keeping it entirely plant-based and delicious.
Protein Boost: Add grilled chicken, chickpeas, or even tofu to this salad for a satisfying protein-packed meal that’s perfect for lunch or dinner.
Seasonal Veggies: Incorporate seasonal vegetables like bell peppers, radishes, or avocado for an extra pop of flavor and color. Each season brings its own treasures!
Herb Infusion: Toss in fresh herbs, such as basil or parsley, right before serving for an aromatic touch and an explosion of fresh flavor.
Crunchy Nuts: Consider adding a handful of toasted nuts like almonds or walnuts to bring a delightful crunch and added nutritional value.
Spicy Kick: If you’re a fan of heat, sprinkle in some red pepper flakes or sliced jalapeños to elevate your salad with a fiery twist!
Flavorful Dressing: Experiment with different dressings like lemon vinaigrette or a yogurt-based dressing for a new taste experience. You won’t believe how different a salad can feel with just this simple adjustment!
Festive Toppings: Go ahead and sprinkle pomegranate seeds or dried cranberries on top for a sweet contrast that brightens both flavor and presentation.

This Best Simple Side Salad is bursting with options, so dive in and enjoy crafting your unique masterpiece! If you need more ideas for side dishes, our Spring Confetti Salad is another great choice!

What to Serve with Best Simple Side Salad

The vibrant colors and fresh flavors of this side salad invite a delightful spread that will please every palate at your table.

Grilled Chicken: Juicy and smoky, grilled chicken adds protein while complementing the salad’s crispness and tangy vinaigrette perfectly.
Roasted Vegetables: Their earthy depth contrasts beautifully with the fresh notes in the salad, creating a satisfying and colorful meal experience.
Quinoa Pilaf: Light and fluffy, quinoa pilaf brings additional texture and nutty flavors; it’s a wholesome addition that balances the meal.
Crusty Bread: A warm, artisanal bread provides a hearty accompaniment, perfect for savoring every drop of that delightful balsamic vinaigrette.
Chickpea Fritters: Crispy and flavorful, these add a delightful crunch and plenty of protein, making your meal both satisfying and nutritious.
Sparkling Water with Lime: Refreshing and zesty, this drink offers a sparkling contrast to the salad, enhancing your dining experience with every sip.

Explore these pairing options, and you’ll see just how versatile the Best Simple Side Salad can be with your favorite flavors!

Expert Tips for Best Simple Side Salad

• Choose Fresh Greens: Opt for crisp romaine or sturdy leafy greens to maintain the salad’s structure and prevent wilting.

• Add Ingredients Last: To keep your salad fresh and crunchy, add the vinaigrette and toss just before serving the Best Simple Side Salad.

• Mellow the Onion: Soaking red onion in cold water for 10 minutes can tone down its sharpness, making it more palatable for everyone.

• Customize with Toppings: Feel free to experiment! Add nuts, seeds, or seasonal veggies to elevate your salad and make it uniquely yours.

• Quality Oil Matters: Using high-quality extra virgin olive oil for your vinaigrette will enhance the overall flavor of the salad.

Make Ahead Options

These tips for the Best Simple Side Salad will save you precious time on busy weeknights! You can prepare the Easy Balsamic Vinaigrette up to 3 days in advance; simply whisk together the ingredients and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. For the salad itself, wash and chop the mixed greens, cucumber, and tomatoes, then store them in a sealed container; they’ll stay fresh for up to 24 hours. Just remember to dress the salad with the vinaigrette just before serving to keep everything crisp and vibrant. This way, you’ll enjoy a delicious, fresh side salad with minimal effort!

How to Store and Freeze Best Simple Side Salad

Fridge: Store leftover salad in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Avoid adding the vinaigrette if you plan to keep it for later to maintain freshness.

Vinaigrette Storage: The Easy Balsamic Vinaigrette can be made in advance and kept in the refrigerator for up to 1 week. Just give it a good shake before using!

Freezer: While the salad itself doesn’t freeze well due to the vegetables losing their texture, you can freeze the vinaigrette in ice cube trays for easy portioning later.

Reheating: Simply toss the salad with fresh ingredients and the vinaigrette just before serving to enjoy the Best Simple Side Salad at its best!

Best Simple Side Salad Recipe FAQs

What type of greens should I use for the Best Simple Side Salad?
Absolutely! I recommend using crisp romaine or mixed leafy greens for structure and flavor. If you’d like to switch things up, hearty greens like spinach or arugula work wonderfully as substitutes, adding your own touch to this vibrant salad.

How long can I store the leftover salad in the fridge?
You can store leftover salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. However, to keep it as fresh as possible, avoid adding the vinaigrette until you’re ready to enjoy the salad again. This will help maintain its crunch and prevent wilting.

Can I freeze the salad?
No, the Best Simple Side Salad doesn’t freeze well because the vegetables can become mushy when thawed. However, you can freeze the Easy Balsamic Vinaigrette! Pour it into ice cube trays and freeze. Once frozen, transfer the cubes to a zip-top bag and use them as needed for up to 3 months.

What if my salad has excess liquid after storing?
Very! If you find that your salad has released excess moisture after storage, simply lay it on a paper towel to soak up the liquid. This shouldn’t take long, and will help restore the freshness and crispness of your salad.

Is this salad suitable for those with food allergies?
Absolutely! The Best Simple Side Salad is adaptable for various diets, including gluten-free, vegetarian, and vegan. If you have specific allergies, just swap out any problematic ingredients, like using crumbled tofu instead of feta for a dairy-free option. Always check the labels on dressing ingredients to ensure they meet your dietary needs.

How can I enhance the flavor of my salad?
To elevate the flavor, consider adding fresh herbs like basil or parsley, or incorporating seasonal vegetables that you love. Experimenting with toppings like nuts or seeds can also add crunch and nutrition, making your salad versatile and exciting every time you make it.