If you’re on the hunt for the Best Simple Side Salad that pairs perfectly with anything you put on the table, your search is over. This vibrant salad is the definition of fresh, irresistible crunch and bright flavor, wrapped up in a ten-minute recipe. It’s the go-to dish I reach for when I want a hit of color and freshness, whether dinner is a casual weekday meal or a festive gathering. Even the most salad-shy friends eagerly go back for seconds!

Best Simple Side Salad Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

The charm of the Best Simple Side Salad lies in its humble, everyday ingredients that each bring their own magic to the bowl. Every piece adds a subtle pop of taste, a fresh layer of crunch, or a burst of color that makes this salad irresistible!

Mixed salad greens (6 cups): A variety of greens like romaine, spinach, and arugula keep every bite interesting and make the base light and lively.
Cherry tomatoes (1/2 cup, halved): These juicy gems add gorgeous color and a gentle hint of sweetness.
Red onion (1/4 cup, thinly sliced): For a mild, zippy bite that elevates every forkful.
Cucumber (1/4 cup, sliced and quartered): Brings that cool crisp crunch that makes the salad extra refreshing.
Shredded carrots (1/4 cup): Adds subtle sweetness and vibrant orange color to brighten the whole bowl.
Crumbled feta or shaved Parmesan (1/4 cup, optional): A creamy, salty finish—feel free to swap in your favorite or skip for a dairy-free version.
Salt and black pepper to taste: Just a sprinkle brings everything together in perfect balance.
Olive oil (3 tablespoons): The silky backbone of our simple vinaigrette.
Red wine vinegar or lemon juice (1 tablespoon): Either will add just the right amount of tang to wake up the flavors.
Dijon mustard (1 teaspoon): Helps bind the vinaigrette and adds mild sharpness.
Honey (1/2 teaspoon, optional): For a delicate sweetness that balances the acidity—totally up to you.
Salt and pepper to taste (for vinaigrette): A final dash to season the dressing just how you like it.

How to Make Best Simple Side Salad

Step 1: Prep the Vegetables

Start by prepping all your veggies, and don’t be shy about getting your hands in there! Halve your cherry tomatoes for juicy bursts, thinly slice the red onion for a pleasant tang, and chop the cucumber into quarters so every bit is easy to eat. Shred or julienne your carrots to scatter color and crunch. These steps set your base for the Best Simple Side Salad—nothing tricky, just fresh, beautiful produce coming together.

Step 2: Assemble the Salad

Grab a large salad bowl (the bigger, the better for easy tossing), and pile in your mixed greens first. Sprinkle the tomatoes, red onion, cucumber, and carrots over the greens like you’re decorating a little edible garden. If you’re feeling cheesy, scatter in the crumbled feta or shaved Parmesan now. Layering like this keeps every ingredient visible and irresistible.

Step 3: Whisk Up the Simple Vinaigrette

In a small bowl or a jar with a tight lid, combine the olive oil, red wine vinegar or lemon juice, Dijon mustard, honey if you’re adding it, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Whisk briskly or shake until the vinaigrette comes together and looks a bit creamy. This step is where the Best Simple Side Salad gets its signature brightness—the tangy dressing ties everything together with minimal effort!

Step 4: Toss and Serve

Just before serving, drizzle your homemade vinaigrette evenly over the vibrant veggies. Gently toss the salad, preferably with clean hands or two large utensils, making sure everything gets a glossy coating of that flavor-packed dressing. Taste and season with a little extra salt and pepper if needed. Serve right away, and watch the bowl empty fast!

How to Serve Best Simple Side Salad

Garnishes

Take your Best Simple Side Salad up a notch with a finishing touch! Sprinkle some fresh herbs like chopped parsley or dill for a pop of green, a handful of toasted nuts for nutty crunch, or even a few extra crumbles of cheese if you’re feeling indulgent. A final grind of black pepper or a light zesting of lemon can wake up all the flavors beautifully.

Side Dishes

This salad truly earns the name “Best Simple Side Salad” because it goes with just about anything. Serve it alongside pasta, grilled chicken, fish, burgers, or even as a bright counterpoint to rich, savory casseroles. It’s always welcome at potlucks or cookouts, complementing everything on the buffet.

Creative Ways to Present

If you’re looking to impress, try assembling the salad on a large platter with the ingredients arranged in colorful stripes or circles before tossing. For a dinner party, serve the Best Simple Side Salad in small individual bowls, or tuck greens into edible bread bowls for a fun, unexpected twist. Toss in a handful of something special, like roasted chickpeas or seasoned croutons, to match your mood or the meal.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you have leftover Best Simple Side Salad, stash it in an airtight container in the fridge. It will stay crisp for about one day—after that, the greens may get a bit softer but the flavors will still be delicious. For the best texture, store any vinaigrette separate and toss just before eating.

Freezing

Salad greens aren’t freezer-friendly, so unfortunately this is a no for the Best Simple Side Salad. The fresh veggies and greens will lose their structure and turn watery if frozen.

Reheating

No need to heat anything here! Simply let your salad come close to room temperature if it’s been chilled for a while. If you prepped extra vinaigrette, give it a little whisk or shake before drizzling it over the greens again.

FAQs

Can I make the Best Simple Side Salad ahead of time?

Absolutely! Prep all your veggies and store them separately in the fridge, along with the vinaigrette on the side. When it’s time to serve, simply toss everything together for the freshest flavor and texture.

What other greens can I use for this salad?

You can use any salad greens you love, such as butter lettuce, kale (massaged with a bit of olive oil), or spring mix. The mix of romaine, spinach, and arugula just gives a nice balance of textures and colors.

Is it okay to add protein and make it a meal?

Definitely! The Best Simple Side Salad is a fantastic base for grilled chicken, shrimp, chickpeas, or even sliced boiled eggs. A little protein can turn it from a side into a very satisfying main dish.

How can I customize the vinaigrette?

The classic vinaigrette here is super flexible. Try balsamic vinegar instead of red wine, swap lemon juice for extra zing, or whisk in minced garlic or shallots for a new layer of flavor. Adjust honey to taste, too!

What should I do if I want to make it dairy-free?

Just leave out the feta or Parmesan, or substitute with a sprinkle of your favorite dairy-free cheese, toasted nuts, or seeds for creaminess and crunch.

Final Thoughts

This Best Simple Side Salad is truly the unsung hero at any table, brightening up meals with its fresh crunch and simple charm. No matter when or how you serve it, I know it will win over everyone who takes a bite. Give it a try, and see just how easy and delicious “simple” can really be!

Best Simple Side Salad Recipe

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

4.8 from 10 reviews

Author: admin
Total Time: 10 minutes
Yield: 4 servings 1x
Diet: Vegetarian

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Description

This Best Simple Side Salad is a quick and easy salad that makes a perfect side dish for any meal. With a mix of fresh greens, colorful vegetables, and a simple vinaigrette dressing, it’s a light and refreshing addition to your table.

Ingredients

Scale

Mixed Salad Greens:

6 cups mixed salad greens (such as romaine, spinach, and arugula)

Vegetables:

1/2 cup cherry tomatoes (halved)
1/4 cup thinly sliced red onion
1/4 cup cucumber (sliced and quartered)
1/4 cup shredded carrots

Cheese (optional):

1/4 cup crumbled feta or shaved Parmesan

Vinaigrette:

3 tablespoons olive oil
1 tablespoon red wine vinegar or lemon juice
1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
1/2 teaspoon honey (optional)
Salt and pepper to taste

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Instructions

Prepare the Salad: In a large bowl, combine the mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, red onion, cucumber, and carrots. Add cheese if desired.
Make the Vinaigrette: In a small bowl or jar, whisk or shake together olive oil, vinegar (or lemon juice), Dijon mustard, honey, salt, and pepper until well combined.
Dress the Salad: Drizzle the vinaigrette over the salad just before serving and toss gently to coat. Season with additional salt and pepper as needed.