Fresh Garden Side Salad🥗 Side

Name: Fresh Garden Side Salad
Prep time: 10 min
Total time: 10 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 6 cups mixed salad greens; 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved; 1/2 cucumber, sliced; 1/4 red onion, thinly sliced; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 1 tablespoon red wine vinegar; 1/2 teaspoon Dijon mustard; Salt and pepper to taste

A speedy accompaniment featuring leafy vegetables, small round tomatoes, sliced cucumber, and an uncomplicated oil-based dressing.

By Jason Miller, Weeknight Cook & Household Coordinator

Prep: 10 minCook: 0 minServes: 4

vegetarian vegan salad quick easy healthy side dish

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Sometimes the best dishes are the simplest ones, and this crisp salad proves that point beautifully. Perfect alongside grilled meats, pasta dishes, or as a light lunch on its own, this combination of fresh vegetables lets quality ingredients shine without fuss. The tangy vinaigrette brings everything together with just enough acidity to brighten the greens without overwhelming their delicate flavor.

The key to success here is timing and temperature. Wait to dress the salad until just before serving—tossing it too early will leave you with wilted, soggy greens. If you're preparing components ahead, keep the vegetables and dressing separate in the refrigerator, then assemble at the last moment. For the crispest results, make sure your greens are thoroughly dried after washing; even a little excess water will dilute the dressing and prevent it from clinging properly to the leaves.

Feel free to customize this template based on what looks best at the market or what's growing in your garden. Radishes add peppery crunch, shaved carrots contribute sweetness, and a handful of fresh herbs like basil or parsley can transform the flavor profile entirely. You can also swap the red wine vinegar for balsamic or lemon juice depending on what you're serving it with. A sprinkle of toasted nuts or seeds just before serving adds welcome texture and makes this simple side feel a bit more special.

Ingredients

6 cups mixed salad greens
1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
1/2 cucumber, sliced
1/4 red onion, thinly sliced
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 tablespoon red wine vinegar
1/2 teaspoon Dijon mustard
Salt and pepper to taste

Nutrition (Per 4 servings)*

Calories

Protein

Carbs

Fat

Fiber

45mg

Sodium

* AI-estimated values only — not a substitute for professional nutrition labeling.

Instructions

In a large bowl, combine the mixed salad greens, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, and red onion.
In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, red wine vinegar, and Dijon mustard until well combined.
Drizzle the dressing over the salad and toss gently to coat.
Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Serve immediately.