Imagine a salad so fresh, so vibrant, and so incredibly easy to prepare that it becomes your instant go-to meal for any occasion! Irene's Go-To Salad is not just another green dish – it's a symphony of crisp vegetables, tangy dressing, and pure, unadulterated flavor that will transform your perception of salads forever. Whether you're a busy professional, a health-conscious foodie, or someone who craves a quick and delicious meal, this recipe is about to become your new culinary best friend.
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: -
Total Time: 10 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 4 cups mixed greens
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 cucumber, diced
- 1/2 cup red onion, thinly sliced
- 1/2 cup olives
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 2 tbsp red wine vinegar
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Wash all fresh produce thoroughly under cool running water. Pat dry the mixed greens and cucumber with clean kitchen towels or paper towels.
- Prepare the vegetables by halving the cherry tomatoes, dicing the cucumber into small, uniform cubes, and thinly slicing the red onion using a sharp knife.
- In a large salad bowl, spread the mixed greens as a base layer, creating an even foundation for the other ingredients.
- Distribute the halved cherry tomatoes, diced cucumber, thinly sliced red onion, and olives evenly across the mixed greens.
- In a small separate bowl, whisk together olive oil, red wine vinegar, salt, and pepper to create a simple vinaigrette dressing.
- Drizzle the prepared vinaigrette over the salad just before serving, ensuring an even coating of the dressing.
- Gently toss the salad to mix all ingredients and distribute the dressing, being careful not to bruise the delicate greens.
- Serve immediately at room temperature for the best flavor and texture.
Tips
- Freshness is Key: Always use the freshest produce you can find. The quality of your ingredients will make or break this simple yet elegant salad.
- Knife Skills Matter: Take your time when chopping vegetables. Uniform, neat cuts not only look professional but also ensure even distribution of flavors.
- Dressing Technique: Whisk your vinaigrette thoroughly and add it just before serving to prevent the greens from becoming soggy.
- Temperature Tip: Serve the salad at room temperature to allow the flavors to fully develop and mingle.
- Customization Hack: Feel free to add protein like grilled chicken or feta cheese to make this salad a complete meal.
- Olive Oil Quality: Use a good quality extra virgin olive oil for the best flavor in your vinaigrette.
- Prep in Advance: You can chop vegetables and prepare the dressing ahead of time, making assembly a breeze when you're ready to eat.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 180kcal
Carbohydrates: 8g
Protein: 3g
Fat: 16g
Saturated Fat: g
Cholesterol: 0mg
