Bookmark
This crispy garden salad with a tangy homemade vinaigrette is a fresh and vibrant way to enjoy a quick, healthy meal or side. The combination of crunchy romaine, juicy cherry tomatoes, crisp cucumber slices, and zesty lemon—Dijon dressing makes it bright and satisfying. It fits perfectly into clean eating, Mediterranean, vegetarian, gluten—free, and low—fat diets while offering a delicious burst of flavor in every bite.
I first whipped this salad up on a sunny weekend and now it's a constant on my lunch rotation. It feels like a little garden party in every bowl and my family loves how crisp and lively it tastes.
Ingredients
- Romaine lettuce: four cups chopped for a crisp, sturdy base that holds the dressing well
- Cherry tomatoes: one and a half cups halved to add sweetness and juicy bursts of color
- Cucumber: one large sliced thinly for cool crunch and freshness choose firm cucumbers without soft spots
- Red onion: half sliced thinly to add subtle sharpness without overpowering the salad
- Fresh cilantro leaves: quarter cup chopped optional, for an herbal lift and brightness that's hard to beat
- Olive oil: three tablespoons as the healthy fat that forms the backbone of the vinaigrette
- Lemons: two juiced for refreshing acidity that balances the dressing
- Dijon mustard: one teaspoon to emulsify the dressing and give a gentle tang
- Garlic powder: half teaspoon adds mild savory depth without the mess of fresh garlic
- Dried oregano: half teaspoon brings earthy Mediterranean flavor notes
- Salt: half teaspoon to enhance all the flavors
- Black pepper: quarter teaspoon for a little bite
- Honey: half teaspoon to round out the acidity with a touch of sweetness
Instructions
- Prepare the Vegetables:
- Wash the romaine lettuce carefully to remove any dirt then chop into bite-sized pieces for easy eating. Halve the cherry tomatoes ensuring each piece bursts with vibrant flavor. Slice the cucumber thinly so it blends well but maintains its crisp texture. Slice the red onion thin enough to balance without dominating, and chop the cilantro finely if using.
- Combine the Salad:
- Gently toss the lettuce, tomatoes, cucumber, red onion, and cilantro in a large salad bowl ensuring everything is evenly distributed but still preserves the texture of each ingredient.
- Prepare the Vinaigrette:
- In a small bowl whisk together olive oil, freshly squeezed lemon juice, Dijon mustard, garlic powder, dried oregano, salt, black pepper, and honey until the mixture becomes fully emulsified and smooth.
- Dress and Serve:
- Drizzle the vinaigrette lightly over the salad just before serving then gently toss to coat all ingredients evenly. Serve immediately for the best crispness and freshness that makes this salad so delightful.
I always love the burst of freshness cilantro adds, but I understand not everyone is a fan so swapping it for basil or parsley is a simple fix that keeps the salad lively. This salad reminds me of summer afternoons in my backyard where the bright flavors and crunchy textures make the simplest moments feel festive.
Storage Tips
Keep any leftover undressed salad vegetables in an airtight container in the fridge to preserve crispness. Adding the vinaigrette only when ready to serve will prevent sogginess.
Ingredient Substitutions
Fresh basil or parsley works nicely in place of cilantro for a different but equally fresh herbal note. Maple syrup can replace honey for a warm, earthy sweetness in the dressing. For an extra crunch, jicama can swap for cucumber bringing a slightly sweet, nutty flavor.
Serving Suggestions
Add slices of avocado or a sprinkle of toasted sunflower seeds to enhance texture and richness. This salad pairs beautifully with grilled meats, fish, or veggie burgers for a complete meal. Try crumbled feta or shaved parmesan on top for a tangy, creamy contrast.
Enjoy this salad immediately for the best crispness and vibrant flavor. It's perfect as a light main or a bright side.
Common Questions About the Recipe
- → How to keep onions from overpowering the salad?
Soak sliced onions in cold water for 10 minutes before adding; this reduces pungency and enhances crispness.
- → Can the vinaigrette be made ahead of time?
Yes, prepare the dressing a day before and keep it refrigerated. Whisk or shake gently before use.
- → What is the best way to store leftover salad?
Store undressed salad vegetables in an airtight container in the fridge. Dress right before serving.
- → What can be used instead of cilantro?
Fresh basil or parsley can replace cilantro for a herbal aroma without overpowering other flavors.
- → How to enhance the salad’s crunch and flavor?
Additions like ripe avocado slices, toasted sunflower seeds, or crumbled feta bring extra texture and richness.