Name: Simple Side Salad with Easy Balsamic Vinaigrette Bliss
Prep time: 15 min
Total time: 15 min
Ingredients: 4 cups Romaine Lettuce or Mixed Leafy Greens (Choose sturdy greens for the best structure and freshness.); 1 medium Cucumber (Adds a superb crunch; adjust quantity based on your taste preference.); 1 cup Cherry Tomatoes (Halve as needed for sweetness.); 1 small Red Onion (Slice thin for even distribution.); 1/4 cup Kalamata Olives (Substitute with black olives if desired.); 1/4 cup Feta Cheese (Optional for a dairy-free option.); 1/4 cup Extra Virgin Olive Oil (Essential for the vinaigrette.); 2 tablespoons Balsamic Vinegar (Provides that delicious tangy flavor.); 1 teaspoon Dijon Mustard (Helps thicken the dressing.); Salt (To taste.); Garlic Powder (To taste.)

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The aroma of fresh greens and tangy balsamic dressing wafted through my kitchen one sunny afternoon, sparking the idea for my Best Simple Side Salad with Easy Balsamic Vinaigrette. Everyone loves a delightful plate that adds a pop of color and crunch to their meals, and this salad does just that! It’s not only quick to prepare but also incredibly versatile, pairing beautifully with everything from grilled steaks to a hearty slice of pizza. Plus, it’s gluten-free and loaded with fresh vegetables, ensuring you can serve it guilt-free. By making your own balsamic vinaigrette, you can skip the preservatives and enjoy a homemade touch that elevates any dining experience. Are you ready to bring a burst of freshness to your next meal? Let’s dive in!

Why Is This Simple Side Salad Perfect?

Vibrant Colors: This Simple Side Salad bursts with a medley of colors, instantly brightening any dish. Fresh Crunch: Enjoy a satisfying crunch with every bite, thanks to the crisp cucumbers and leafy greens. Quick Preparation: Whipping it up takes no time at all, making it the ideal accompaniment for busy nights. Versatile Pairing: Whether you’re serving grilled chicken, pizza, or just enjoying a leisurely lunch, it complements wonderfully! Want a refreshing twist? Try adding grilled chicken or chickpeas to make it a main dish. Prepare to be the host that everyone talks about after the meal!

Simple Side Salad Ingredients

• A delightful mix for your Simple Side Salad awaits!

For the Salad

Romaine Lettuce or Mixed Leafy Greens – Choose sturdy greens for the best structure and freshness.
Cucumbers – Adds a superb crunch; adjust quantity based on your taste preference!
Cherry Tomatoes – Offers a sweet burst; halve them as needed, using 1/2 to 1 cup.
Red Onion – Provides sharpness and color; slice thin for even distribution.
Kalamata Olives – Introduces briny complexity; substitute with black olives if desired. Use 1/4 to 1/2 cup as you like.
Feta Cheese – Adds a creamy touch; it’s optional for a dairy-free option!

For the Dressing

Extra Virgin Olive Oil – Essential for the vinaigrette, providing healthy fats.
Balsamic Vinegar – Offers that delicious tangy flavor to balance the vinaigrette.
Dijon Mustard – Helps thicken the dressing and enhances the overall flavor.
Salt and Garlic Powder – Season the dressing to elevate your Simple Side Salad’s taste.

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Best Simple Side Salad with Easy Balsamic Vinaigrette

Step 1: Prepare Easy Balsamic Vinaigrette
In a medium bowl, whisk together 1/4 cup of extra virgin olive oil, 2 tablespoons of balsamic vinegar, 1 teaspoon of Dijon mustard, and a pinch of salt and garlic powder. Mix until the dressing is well combined and smooth, with a rich, glossy appearance. Set this delectable vinaigrette aside while you assemble the ingredients for the Simple Side Salad.

Step 2: Chop the Fresh Vegetables
Begin by preparing your fresh ingredients. Rinse and dry 4 cups of romaine lettuce or mixed leafy greens, then chop them into bite-sized pieces. Slice 1 cucumber and halve 1 cup of cherry tomatoes, ensuring they’re vibrant and fresh. Finally, thinly slice a small red onion. Arrange these colorful, crunchy ingredients within a large salad bowl, creating a beautiful base for your Simple Side Salad.

Step 3: Add Olives and Feta Cheese
Next, it’s time to enhance your salad’s flavor. Add about 1/3 cup of kalamata olives and 1/4 cup of crumbled feta cheese to the bowl. The olives will introduce a briny depth, while the feta brings a creamy texture. Toss these ingredients gently with your hands to ensure an even mix, providing a delightful variety in each bite of your Simple Side Salad.

Step 4: Toss with Vinaigrette
When your ingredients are beautifully arranged, return to the vinaigrette. Drizzle it over the salad generously, ensuring all the components receive a flavorful coating. With clean hands or large tongs, toss the salad thoroughly for about 30 seconds, allowing the vinaigrette to mingle with the fresh vegetables while keeping everything crisp and vibrant.

Step 5: Serve Immediately
To maintain the freshness of your Simple Side Salad, serve it right away. Spoon generous portions onto plates or into bowls, letting the colors and textures shine. If desired, garnish with a few extra olives or feta for an enticing presentation. Perfectly paired with grilled meats or pizza, this salad is sure to be a hit!

Storage Tips for Simple Side Salad

Fridge: Store the untossed Simple Side Salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days to maintain freshness and crunch.
Dressing: Keep the Easy Balsamic Vinaigrette in a separate, airtight container for up to 1 week. Shake well before using to mix the ingredients properly.
Reheating: There’s no need to reheat this salad; serving it cold enhances its refreshing qualities. Just dress it before serving to enjoy the best flavors.
Avoid Wilting: If you plan to save leftovers, only dress what you’ll eat to prevent wilting of the greens.

Make Ahead Options

This Simple Side Salad is a fantastic option for meal prep, allowing you to enjoy fresh flavors even on your busiest days! You can prepare the Easy Balsamic Vinaigrette up to 3 days in advance; simply store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. For even more convenience, wash and chop the romaine lettuce, cucumbers, and cherry tomatoes a day ahead and keep them separately wrapped to maintain freshness. When you’re ready to serve, simply combine the prepped ingredients in a bowl, drizzle the vinaigrette over, and give it a quick toss. This way, your salad remains just as delicious and vibrant, ready to complement any meal with minimal effort!

Simple Side Salad Variations & Substitutions

Feel free to add your own twist to this delightful Simple Side Salad, making it your own creation bursting with flavors!

Leafy Greens Alteration: Swap romaine for kale or spinach for a nutrient-packed punch that’s just as delicious! These greens add a different flavor profile to the mix.
Add Protein: Grilled Chicken or Chickpeas: Turn this salad into a protein-rich meal. Simply toss in some grilled chicken strips or chickpeas for a hearty touch! They offer a wonderful texture and fulfill hunger as a main dish.
Different Olives: Green Olives: Try using green olives instead of kalamata for a tangier flavor. They add a fresh twist and variety to your salad.
Cheese Substitutes: Vegan Option: If you’re looking for a dairy-free version, opt for crumbled avocado or a dollop of hummus. These alternatives provide creaminess without dairy!
Veggie Variations: Add Bell Peppers: Include sliced bell peppers for a sweet crunch and more vibrant colors in your salad. The sweetness balances the tang of the vinaigrette beautifully!
Boost with Nuts: Walnuts or Almonds: Sprinkle some toasted walnuts or almonds on top for added crunch and healthy fats. They elevate the textures while adding a nutty flavor!
Herbs for Flavor: Fresh Herbs: Fold in fresh herbs like basil or cilantro for a burst of flavor that will invigorate your salad! Fresh herbs can transform the taste entirely.
Heat Factor: Add Spice: For chili lovers, sprinkle in some sliced jalapeños or a pinch of red pepper flakes to turn up the heat. This gives a thrilling pop of flavor that’ll wake up your taste buds!

If you’re looking for more delightful salads, consider trying out the refreshing Radish Salad Roasted, or indulge in the creamy texture of Egg Pasta Salad. Each of these options brings its unique flair to your table!

What to Serve with Best Simple Side Salad with Easy Balsamic Vinaigrette

Looking to create a beautifully balanced meal? This fresh side salad is the perfect companion to elevate your dining experience.

Grilled Chicken: Juicy and flavorful, grilled chicken adds a hearty protein that complements the salad’s crispness beautifully.
Roasted Vegetables: The warm, caramelized notes of roasted veggies introduce a lovely contrast, enhancing the salad’s fresh elements.
Quinoa or Couscous: Nutty grains provide a satisfying texture and fiber, making your meal more filling without overshadowing the salad.
Savory Pizza: An unbeatable duo, the gooey cheese and rich toppings of a fresh pizza balance the salad’s tangy vinaigrette perfectly.
Lemon Garlic Shrimp: Succulent shrimp seasoned with lemon and garlic bring a bright note that pairs exquisitely with the balsamic dressing.
Fresh Fruit Salad: A sweet fruit medley echoes the Salad’s flavors while providing a refreshing finish to your meal.
Crispy Sweet Potato Fries: Their sweetness and crunch add a delightful contrast to the fresh, vibrant elements of your salad.
Chilled White Wine: A crisp glass of Sauvignon Blanc can enhance the meal, pairing well with the salad and any protein you serve.
Chocolate Mousse: For dessert, a light and airy chocolate mousse offers a rich finish that feels indulgent after your fresh salad.

Expert Tips for Simple Side Salad

Freshness Matters: Use the freshest vegetables possible for a vibrant and crisp Simple Side Salad. Avoid ingredients that look wilted or dull.
Dress Right Before Serving: To maintain the crunch and freshness, only dress the salad right before serving, preventing soggy greens.
Chop Uniformly: Ensure all ingredients are chopped to similar sizes. This not only enhances the appearance but also ensures a balanced flavor in each bite.
Variation Friendly: Don’t hesitate to customize! Swap ingredients or add proteins according to your preference while keeping the essence of this Simple Side Salad.
Proper Storage: If you have leftovers, store the salad and dressing separately and keep both in the refrigerator to maintain freshness for a day or two.

Best Simple Side Salad with Easy Balsamic Vinaigrette Recipe FAQs

What type of greens should I use for the Simple Side Salad?
Absolutely! For the best flavor and structure, I recommend using sturdy greens such as romaine lettuce or mixed leafy greens. They hold up well to the vinaigrette and provide a satisfying crunch.

How long can I store the Simple Side Salad in the refrigerator?
To maintain its freshness, store the untossed Simple Side Salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. It’s essential to keep the dressing separate until you’re ready to serve.

Can I freeze the Simple Side Salad?
Freezing is not recommended for the Simple Side Salad, especially with fresh vegetables like lettuce and cucumbers, as they will become soggy once thawed. However, you can freeze the Easy Balsamic Vinaigrette for up to 3 months. Just make sure to place it in an airtight container and thaw it in the refrigerator when ready to use.

What should I do if my salad looks wilted after storage?
No worries! If your salad appears wilted after a day or two in the fridge, try rejuvenating it. Rinse the greens under cool water, gently shake off the excess moisture, and let them sit in ice water for about 10 minutes. This can bring back some of the crunchiness, especially if you refrigerated it right away when serving.

Are there any common allergens in this recipe?
This Simple Side Salad is gluten-free and suitable for vegetarians and vegans! However, the feta cheese, while optional, is a dairy product that could be an allergen for some. You can easily omit it or replace it with a dairy-free cheese to accommodate any dietary concerns.

What if I don’t have balsamic vinegar for the vinaigrette?
If you find yourself without balsamic vinegar, don’t fret! You can substitute it with apple cider vinegar or red wine vinegar for a different tangy flavor. Just remember to keep the proportions similar for the best results!