Simple Tossed Green Salad

Fresh, vibrant, and incredibly easy to prepare, this Simple Tossed Green Salad is the perfect addition to any meal. Whether you’re looking for a light lunch, a refreshing side dish, or a quick way to add more greens to your diet, this salad delivers on all fronts. With a bright and tangy homemade dressing that perfectly complements the crisp greens, it’s a recipe that you’ll return to time and again. Plus, it uses simple ingredients you likely already have on hand, making it super convenient without sacrificing flavor.

Why This Recipe Is a Must-Try

This salad stands out because of its simplicity and versatility. The homemade dressing combines olive oil, apple cider vinegar, honey, Dijon mustard, and garlic for a perfectly balanced flavor that’s tangy, slightly sweet, and full of depth. Unlike store-bought dressings, this one is free of preservatives and artificial ingredients, offering a cleaner, fresher taste. The salad itself is a canvas for your favorite greens, encouraging you to customize it with whatever you have available. It’s light enough to eat on its own yet satisfying enough to be a side dish at your next dinner party or family meal. Plus, it’s naturally gluten-free and vegetarian-friendly, making it suitable for a wide variety of dietary preferences.

Ingredients

• ¼ cup olive oil – Use extra virgin olive oil for the best flavor and quality.
• ¼ cup apple cider vinegar – Adds a bright, tangy note that balances the richness of the oil.
• 1 tablespoon honey – Provides subtle sweetness to mellow out the acidity.
• 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard – Helps emulsify the dressing and adds a gentle kick.
• ½ teaspoon minced garlic – Fresh garlic adds a savory depth to the dressing.
• Salt and pepper to taste – Essential for bringing out the flavors in both the dressing and salad.
• Mixed greens – Choose a combination like romaine, baby spinach, arugula, and spring mix for variety and texture.

How To Make Simple Tossed Green Salad

Step 1: Prepare the Dressing

In a small bowl or jar, whisk together the olive oil, apple cider vinegar, honey, Dijon mustard, minced garlic, salt, and pepper. If using a jar, secure the lid tightly and shake vigorously until the ingredients are fully combined and the dressing has emulsified. Set aside to allow the flavors to meld.

Step 2: Rinse and Dry the Greens

Wash your mixed greens thoroughly under cold water to remove any dirt or grit. Use a salad spinner or pat dry with clean kitchen towels or paper towels. Dry greens help the dressing adhere better and prevent the salad from becoming soggy.

Step 3: Toss the Salad

Place the greens in a large salad bowl. Drizzle the prepared dressing over the top, starting with about half and adding more as needed. Toss gently with salad tongs or clean hands until all the greens are lightly coated with the dressing.

Step 4: Serve Immediately

For the freshest taste and best texture, serve your tossed green salad immediately. If you want to add extra toppings like nuts, seeds, or cheese, sprinkle them on top just before serving.

Expert Tips

• Use fresh garlic: Mince fresh garlic finely to avoid overpowering the dressing with harsh raw garlic flavor.
• Emulsify well: Make sure to whisk or shake the dressing thoroughly so the oil and vinegar combine smoothly for a creamy texture.
• Dry greens completely: Wet greens will dilute the dressing and make the salad soggy, so drying them well is crucial.
• Adjust seasoning: Taste the dressing before tossing—it’s easy to add more salt, pepper, or honey to suit your preference.
• Use a variety of greens: Mixing textures and flavors like peppery arugula, sweet baby spinach, and crisp romaine makes the salad more interesting.

Variations and Customizations

• Add protein: Include grilled chicken, boiled eggs, chickpeas, or tofu for a more filling meal.
• Mix in vegetables: Sliced cucumbers, cherry tomatoes, shredded carrots, or bell peppers add color and crunch.
• Incorporate fruits: Fresh apple slices, grapes, or dried cranberries provide a touch of sweetness and contrast.
• Top with nuts or seeds: Toasted almonds, walnuts, sunflower seeds, or pumpkin seeds add texture and healthy fats.
• Swap the vinegar: Try balsamic vinegar or lemon juice for a different flavor profile.

How to Store Leftovers

If you have any leftover salad, it’s best to store the greens and dressing separately to keep the leaves crisp. Place the salad greens in an airtight container lined with paper towels to absorb moisture, and refrigerate for up to 2 days. Store the dressing in a sealed jar or bottle in the fridge for up to 1 week. When ready to eat, toss the greens with the dressing just before serving to maintain the best texture and flavor.

FAQ

Can I make the dressing ahead of time?

Yes! The dressing can be made up to a week in advance and stored in the refrigerator. Just give it a good shake or whisk before using, as the oil and vinegar may separate over time.

What types of greens work best for this salad?

A mix of tender and crunchy greens works well. Try combining romaine, baby spinach, arugula, and spring mix. You can also add kale or butter lettuce for more variety.

Is this salad suitable for a vegan diet?

To make this salad vegan, substitute the honey with maple syrup or agave nectar. The rest of the ingredients are plant-based and vegan-friendly.

How can I make the salad more filling?

Add a source of protein like grilled chicken, boiled eggs, beans, or nuts. Including additional vegetables or whole grains like quinoa can also help make the salad a complete meal.

Conclusion

This Simple Tossed Green Salad is a delightful combination of fresh greens and a tangy, slightly sweet dressing that elevates any meal. It’s quick to prepare, uses pantry staples, and can be easily customized to suit your tastes or dietary needs. Whether you enjoy it as a light lunch, a side dish, or a base for more substantial add-ins, this salad is sure to become a staple in your kitchen. Give it a try today and experience how something so simple can taste so fresh and satisfying!