Classic House Salad – Quick and Easy

When I think of a classic house salad, I’m reminded of those sunlit afternoons spent in the kitchen, where vibrant colors and fresh scents danced together in the air. This salad is more than just a dish; it’s a canvas for creativity, a joyous mingling of textures, and the ultimate showcase for seasonal produce. It has a way of making any meal feel special—whether it’s a bustling weeknight dinner or a relaxed weekend gathering with loved ones. Let’s dive into the beauty of the Classic House Salad and discover why it’s an essential staple in any kitchen.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Classic House Salad is not just about tossing ingredients into a bowl; it’s an experience—a refreshing contrast to the heavier dishes in our meal rotation. Think of it as a vibrant embrace of crisp romaine, juicy cherry tomatoes, and crunchy cucumbers, all uplifted by a homemade vinaigrette that packs a flavor punch. What makes it truly special is how customizable it is; you can experiment with different veggie combinations and toppings based on what’s fresh and in season, or what you already have in your fridge.

And let’s not overlook the health benefits! This salad is loaded with vitamins and minerals, making it a guilt-free accompaniment to your meals. It’s light yet satisfying, perfect for those days when you want something wholesome without feeling weighed down. Plus, whipping up your vinaigrette is not just simple; it’s a game-changer that elevates this salad to a new level of sophistication.

Gather These Ingredients

Let’s take a closer look at the stars of our show:

• Romaine Lettuce (4-5 cups, chopped): The crisp backbone of this salad. Romaine offers a satisfying crunch that holds up wonderfully against the dressing.

• Cherry Tomatoes (1 cup, sliced): Sweet and juicy, these little gems add a pop of color and a burst of flavor in every bite. Feel free to substitute with heirloom or grape tomatoes if you have them!

• Cucumber (1/2 cup, chopped): This refreshing addition not only provides a cool crunch but also hydrates and balances the flavors.

• Carrots (1/2 cup, shredded): I love to use shredded or matchstick carrots for their sweetness and texture. They add a lovely orange hue that brightens up the salad.

• Red Onion (1/3 cup, diced or sliced): A sprinkle of red onion delivers a sharp bite while balancing the sweetness of the tomatoes and carrots.

• Croutons (1 cup): I’m partial to Olivia’s croutons, which happen to be gluten-free. These are the finishing touch that adds a delightful crunch.

• Grated Parmesan Cheese (optional): If you’re feeling a little indulgent, a sprinkle of freshly grated parmesan brings a creamy, nutty flavor that ties everything together.

Dressing Ingredients:

• Red Wine Vinegar (1/4 cup): This tangy base brings brightness and acidity, cutting through the richness of any toppings.

• Extra Virgin Olive Oil (1/2 cup): The quality of your olive oil can make all the difference; it adds depth and silkiness.

• Dijon Mustard (1 tablespoon): Just a spoonful creates a wonderful emulsifying agent that blends the dressing beautifully.

• Maple Syrup (1 tablespoon): A touch of sweetness to balance the tanginess.

• Dried Oregano (1 teaspoon) & Garlic Powder (1 teaspoon): These aromatic seasonings enhance the sauce’s complexity.

• Kosher Salt (1/4 teaspoon) & Black Pepper (1/4 teaspoon): Seasoning is crucial; it brings everything to life!

How This Recipe Comes Together

1. Make the Dressing: Combine the red wine vinegar, extra virgin olive oil, Dijon mustard, maple syrup, oregano, garlic powder, kosher salt, and black pepper in a mason jar. Secure the lid and give it a vigorous shake until everything emulsifies. If you prefer, use a bowl and whisk together until well blended. You’ll be amazed at how this simple dressing transforms the salad!

2. Chop the Veggies: Grab your cutting board and start chopping! Prepare your romaine lettuce, slice the cherry tomatoes, chop the cucumber, and shred those carrots like a pro.

3. Mix it All Together: In a large bowl, combine all your chopped veggies along with the croutons. Gently toss them together, allowing each ingredient to mingle and get cozy.

4. Dress the Salad: Drizzle the homemade vinaigrette over the salad and toss again, ensuring every leaf and veggie is generously coated with that zesty goodness.

5. Finish with Cheese: If you’re in the mood (and let’s be honest—who isn’t?), top it off with a sprinkle of grated parmesan cheese.

Best Way to Enjoy It

This Classic House Salad is versatile; it shines as a side dish for grilled meats or roasted vegetables. It pairs exceptionally well with a light grilled chicken breast or even as a bed for that leftover pasta you have stashed in the fridge. Want to elevate it further? Consider adding some protein: chickpeas for a plant-based option, or slices of grilled steak or shrimp for a heartier meal.

Keeping Leftovers Fresh

This salad is best enjoyed fresh, but if you have leftovers, don’t panic! Store any uneaten salad in an airtight container without the dressing to keep the veggies crisp. Refrigerate, and it should stay fresh for about 2 days. Just know that adding the dressing beforehand will result in soggy leaves the next day—so dress right before serving!

Extra Tips and Advice

• Don’t shy away from experimenting! Swap ingredients based on what you have or what you love. Try different greens like arugula or spinach, or play around with different nuts for a delicious crunch.

• Want to add some protein? Toss in some grilled chicken, chickpeas, or even tuna for a complete meal.

• Emulsifying your dressing in a mason jar is not just efficient, but a fun way to get the kids involved in the kitchen. Let them shake it up!

Creative Twists

Feel free to get adventurous! Here are a few fun variations that can spice up your Classic House Salad:

• Mediterranean Style: Toss in Kalamata olives, feta cheese, and fresh herbs like dill or parsley. Replace the red wine vinegar with lemon juice for a refreshing zing.

• Southwestern Flair: Add black beans, corn, and sliced avocado. Swap the Dijon for chipotle mayo in the dressing for some smokiness.

• Asian-Inspired: Incorporate sliced bell peppers, edamame, and sesame seeds. Use rice vinegar and a splash of soy sauce in place of the red wine vinegar for an umami kick.

Your Questions Answered

1. Can I prepare the salad in advance?
   Yes! Prep the ingredients a day ahead, but keep the dressing separate until serving time.

2. What if I’m not a fan of onions?
   Feel free to leave them out! You could add chopped bell peppers instead for a crunch without the bite.

3. Are there vegan options?
   Absolutely! Skip the parmesan cheese, and you’ve got a delicious, dairy-free salad.

4. How long will the vinaigrette last?
   Keep it in the fridge, and it should last for about a week.

5. Is this salad gluten-free?
   Yes, especially if you choose gluten-free croutons like Olivia’s!

This Classic House Salad is not just a recipe—it’s an opportunity for creativity, a way to nourish yourself and others, and perhaps even a new family favorite. So why not give it a try? Feel free to tweak, add, or subtract ingredients to match your taste. I can’t wait to hear how yours turns out! Cook with love, share with joy, and let’s keep the conversation going in the comments. Happy cooking!

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Classic House Salad – Quick and Easy

Cooking Method: Mixing Courses: Appetizer, Lunch, Side Dish Recipe Keys: Cold E Easy H Healthy Quick Meals Vegetarian Meals

Difficulty: Beginner Prep Time 15 mins Total Time 15 mins

Servings: 4 Estimated Cost: $ 10 Calories: 220

Best Season: Suitable throughout the year

Description

This Classic House Salad is a vibrant embrace of crisp vegetables, all uplifted by a homemade vinaigrette that packs a flavor punch. It's loaded with vitamins, making it a guilt-free accompaniment to any meal.

Salad Ingredients

Scale

1/2x 1x 2x 3x

Salad

• 4-5 cups Romaine Lettuce, chopped (The crisp backbone of this salad.)
• 1 cup Cherry Tomatoes, sliced (Can substitute with heirloom or grape tomatoes.)
• ¹⁄₂ cup Cucumber, chopped (Provides a cool crunch.)
• ¹⁄₂ cup Carrots, shredded (Adds sweetness and texture.)
• ¹⁄₃ cup Red Onion, diced or sliced (Delivers a sharp bite.)
• 1 cup Croutons (Use gluten-free if necessary.)
• optional Grated Parmesan Cheese (For a creamy, nutty flavor.)

Dressing

• ¹⁄₄ cup Red Wine Vinegar (Provides brightness and acidity.)
• ¹⁄₂ cup Extra Virgin Olive Oil (Adds depth and silkiness.)
• 1 tablespoon Dijon Mustard (Emulsifies the dressing.)
• 1 tablespoon Maple Syrup (Balances the tanginess.)
• 1 teaspoon Dried Oregano (Enhances flavor complexity.)
• 1 teaspoon Garlic Powder (Adds aromatic flavor.)
• ¹⁄₄ teaspoon Kosher Salt (Essential for seasoning.)
• ¹⁄₄ teaspoon Black Pepper (Also for seasoning.)

Instructions

Preparation

1. Make the Dressing

   Combine the red wine vinegar, extra virgin olive oil, Dijon mustard, maple syrup, oregano, garlic powder, kosher salt, and black pepper in a mason jar. Secure the lid and shake until emulsified.
   Alternatively, whisk in a bowl.
   Mark as complete

2. Chop the Veggies

   Prepare the romaine lettuce, slice the cherry tomatoes, chop the cucumber, and shred the carrots.
   Mark as complete

3. Mix It All Together

   In a large bowl, combine the chopped veggies and croutons. Gently toss together.
   Mark as complete

4. Dress the Salad

   Drizzle the vinaigrette over the salad and toss to coat.
   Mark as complete

5. Finish with Cheese

   If desired, sprinkle grated parmesan cheese on top.
   Mark as complete

Nutrition Facts

Servings 4

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Amount Per Serving

Calories 220kcal

% Daily Value *

Total Fat 17g27%

Saturated Fat 2g10%

Trans Fat 0g

Cholesterol 5mg2%

Sodium 200mg9%

Potassium 450mg13%

Total Carbohydrate 15g5%

Dietary Fiber 3g12%

Sugars 4g

Protein 5g10%

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Vitamin A 450 IU

Vitamin C 50 mg

Calcium 100 mg

Iron 1.5 mg

Vitamin D 0 IU

Vitamin E 2 IU

Vitamin K 100 mcg

Thiamin 0.1 mg

Riboflavin 0.1 mg

Niacin 1 mg

Vitamin B6 0.1 mg

Folate 50 mcg

Vitamin B12 0 mcg

Biotin 0 mcg

Pantothenic Acid 0.5 mg

Phosphorus 30 mg

Iodine 0 mcg

Magnesium 25 mg

Zinc 0.5 mg

Selenium 1 mcg

Copper 0.1 mg

Manganese 0.3 mg

Chromium 0 mcg

Molybdenum 0 mcg

Chloride 0 mg

* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily value may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.

Note

Feel free to experiment with different veggies or toppings based on your preferences!

Keywords: house salad, salad recipe, fresh, healthy