Fresh and Crunchy Garden Salad with Homemade Olive Oil Dressing

Fresh and Crunchy Garden Salad with Homemade Olive Oil Dressing

There’s nothing quite like a fresh garden salad made with crisp vegetables and a homemade dressing. This simple yet satisfying salad is perfect for lunch, dinner, or as a light side dish. With its vibrant colors and wholesome ingredients, it’s a dish that brings the best of fresh produce to your table.

Ingredients

• 8 ounces mixed salad greens or romaine lettuce
• 2 medium tomatoes, diced
• 1 cucumber, sliced
• 1/4 red onion, thinly sliced
• 1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil
• 2 tablespoons red wine vinegar
• 1 clove garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

1. Wash and dry the lettuce thoroughly, then tear or chop into bite-sized pieces and place in a large bowl.
2. Add the diced tomatoes, sliced cucumber, and red onion to the bowl with the lettuce.
3. In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, red wine vinegar, minced garlic, and Dijon mustard until well combined.
4. Season the dressing with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Pour the dressing over the salad just before serving and toss gently until all ingredients are evenly coated.
6. Divide among serving plates and enjoy immediately.

Practical Tips

Keep it crisp: Prepare the vegetables ahead of time, but dress the salad only right before eating to keep it crisp and fresh. This prevents the lettuce from becoming soggy.

Balance your flavors: Adjust the vinegar and oil ratio to your preference. If you prefer a tangier dressing, add more vinegar. For a richer taste, increase the olive oil slightly.

Quality matters: Use extra virgin olive oil and fresh red wine vinegar for the best flavor. These quality ingredients make a noticeable difference in the final taste of your dressing.

How to Store It

Store any leftover dressing in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week. The salad greens and vegetables are best consumed fresh, though you can store them separately in the refrigerator for a few days. Keep the dressing separate from the salad until you’re ready to eat.

Common Questions

Can I make the dressing ahead of time? Yes, you can prepare the dressing up to one day in advance. Store it in a jar with a tight-fitting lid and shake well before using, as the oil and vinegar may separate.

What other vegetables can I add to this salad? Feel free to customize with bell peppers, carrots, radishes, or celery. You can also add croutons, nuts, or cheese for extra texture and flavor.

Is this salad suitable for meal prep? You can prep the vegetables in advance and store them separately. Keep the dressing in a separate container and combine everything just before eating for the best results.