Description
A quick and easy simple side salad made with fresh mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, red onion, and shredded carrots, tossed in a tangy balsamic vinaigrette. This versatile salad can be customized with optional feta cheese or additional toppings like nuts or avocado, making it a perfect healthy accompaniment to any meal.
Ingredients
Scale
Salad
- 4 cups mixed salad greens
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1/2 cucumber, sliced
- 1/4 red onion, thinly sliced
- 1/4 cup shredded carrots
- 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese (optional)
Dressing
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar
- 1/2 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions
- Combine Salad Ingredients: In a large salad bowl, combine the mixed salad greens, halved cherry tomatoes, sliced cucumber, thinly sliced red onion, and shredded carrots, ensuring all vegetables are evenly distributed.
- Prepare the Dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, balsamic vinegar, Dijon mustard, salt, and black pepper vigorously until the mixture emulsifies and becomes well combined.
- Toss the Salad: Pour the prepared dressing over the salad ingredients and toss gently but thoroughly to coat all the vegetables evenly with the vinaigrette.
- Add Feta Cheese (Optional): Sprinkle the crumbled feta cheese over the top of the salad for added creaminess and flavor if desired.
- Serve: Serve the salad immediately to enjoy its fresh and crisp textures at their best.
Notes
- This salad is versatile—add nuts, seeds, or avocado for extra texture and flavor.
- For a lighter dressing, substitute lemon juice for balsamic vinegar.
- Prep the vegetables ahead of time and keep the dressing separate until ready to serve to preserve freshness.
