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–+ servings
Simple Side Salad

Simple Side Salad That Brightens Any Meal Instantly

Enjoy this Simple Side Salad as a refreshing addition to any meal, featuring crisp greens and a delightful vinaigrette.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Total Time 15 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Salads
Cuisine: Mediterranean
Calories: 150
Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Salad
  • 4 cups mixed leafy greens or romaine lettuce Spinach can be a great substitution.
  • 1 cup sliced cucumber Hothouse or English cucumber preferred.
  • 1 cup halved cherry tomatoes Regular tomatoes, quartered, can be an alternative.
  • 1/2 cup thinly sliced red onion Soak slices in cold water for 10 minutes to mellow flavor.
  • 1/3 cup pitted Kalamata olives Black olives can be substituted.
  • 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese Omit for a dairy-free version.
For the Easy Balsamic Vinaigrette
  • 1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil Use high-quality oil for best flavor.
  • 2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar Balsamic glaze can provide a thicker consistency.
  • 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard Yellow mustard may be used for a different twist.
  • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder Substitute with fresh minced garlic if desired.
  • 1 pinch salt Adjust to taste.

Equipment

  • Mixing bowl
  • salad bowl
  • Whisk
  • salad tongs

Method
 

Step-by-Step Instructions
  1. Make the Vinaigrette: In a mixing bowl, combine olive oil, balsamic vinegar, Dijon mustard, garlic powder, and salt. Whisk until smooth and slightly thickened, about 1 minute.
  2. Prepare the Salad: In a large salad bowl, layer the mixed greens, sliced cucumber, halved cherry tomatoes, sliced red onion, Kalamata olives, and crumbled feta. Arrange for visual appeal.
  3. Combine the Ingredients: Toss the salad gently with salad tongs to mix without bruising the greens.
  4. Dress the Salad: Drizzle the vinaigrette over the salad before serving and toss gently.
  5. Serve the Salad: Transfer to a serving platter for an appealing presentation.

Nutrition

Serving: 1servingCalories: 150kcalCarbohydrates: 10gProtein: 3gFat: 12gSaturated Fat: 2gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1gMonounsaturated Fat: 9gCholesterol: 10mgSodium: 300mgPotassium: 200mgFiber: 3gSugar: 4gVitamin A: 1000IUVitamin C: 30mgCalcium: 100mgIron: 1mg

Notes

Use fresh ingredients for the best flavor and texture. Add ingredients in layers and dress just before serving to maintain crispness.

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