Fresh Salad (Printable)

Bright, quick salad of mixed greens, tomatoes, cucumber and tangy lemon-Dijon dressing—ready in 15 minutes.

# What You’ll Need:

→ Vegetables

01 - 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
02 - 1 cucumber, diced
03 - 1 red bell pepper, diced
04 - 1 small red onion, thinly sliced
05 - 3 cups mixed salad greens

→ Optional Additions

06 - 1/4 cup feta cheese, crumbled
07 - 1/4 cup kalamata olives, pitted and sliced

→ Dressing

08 - 3 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
09 - 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
10 - 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
11 - 1 teaspoon honey
12 - Salt and black pepper, to taste

# How-to Steps:

01 - In a large salad bowl, integrate cherry tomatoes, cucumber, red bell pepper, red onion, and mixed salad greens.
02 - If desired, fold in crumbled feta cheese and sliced kalamata olives.
03 - In a small bowl, vigorously whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, Dijon mustard, honey, salt, and black pepper until the mixture becomes fully emulsified.
04 - Drizzle the prepared dressing over the salad and toss gently to ensure even distribution and coating of all ingredients.
05 - Enjoy promptly to preserve optimal freshness and crisp texture.

# Expert Advice:

01 -
  • The dressing seems simple but makes the veggies shine as if you just picked them in a summer garden.
  • It&aposs endlessly adaptable, which means you can improvise without stress if your fridge looks a little sparse.
02 -
  • One time, I added the dressing too soon and the greens wilted before anyone could sit down — dress last minute for crispness.
  • Tossing by hand (yes, even if it&aposs messier) coats every piece evenly, and you feel when the mix is just right.
03 -
  • Letting the onion soak in cold water really cuts down its bite, making the salad friendlier for kids or anyone who&aposs onion-shy.
  • A sprinkle of flaky salt just before serving elevates every bite—you&aposll notice the difference.