Everyday Salad Recipe

This fresh and easy Everyday Salad features spring greens, crisp cucumber, red onion, and toasted nuts, tossed in a simple lemon Dijon dressing. Perfect as a healthy side or light meal, this salad is quick to prepare and customizable with your favorite greens and toppings. Ideal for clean eating, meal prep, and adding nutritious greens to your diet.

Ingredients

Salad:

• 5 ounces spring greens mix (or your preferred salad greens)
• ½ English cucumber, very thinly sliced
• ½ medium red onion, peeled and very thinly sliced
• ½ cup pepitas, toasted pine nuts, or any preferred nuts/seeds

Dressing:

• 3 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 tablespoon freshly squeezed lemon juice (or substitute with red wine vinegar)
• 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
• 1 small garlic clove, pressed or finely minced (or ½ teaspoon garlic powder)
• ½ teaspoon fine sea salt
• ¼ teaspoon freshly cracked black pepper

---

Instructions

1. Prepare the Dressing: In a bowl, whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, Dijon mustard, garlic, salt, and pepper until well combined. Alternatively, combine these ingredients in a mason jar and shake vigorously.
2. Assemble the Salad: In a large salad bowl, combine the spring greens, sliced cucumber, sliced red onion, and nuts or seeds of choice.
3. Dress the Salad: Pour the dressing over the salad and toss gently until all ingredients are evenly coated.
4. Serve: Serve immediately for the freshest taste.

---

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and easy to prepare with minimal ingredients
• Fresh, crisp flavors perfect for any meal or side dish
• Versatile and customizable to your taste preferences
• Nutritious and packed with healthy fats, fiber, and vitamins

Tips

• Toast nuts or seeds lightly in a dry skillet for extra flavor
• Slice vegetables thinly for better texture and ease of eating
• Adjust dressing acidity by adding more lemon juice or vinegar to taste

Variations and Substitutions

• Use kale, arugula, or mixed baby greens instead of spring mix
• Swap pepitas or pine nuts for walnuts, almonds, or sunflower seeds
• Substitute lemon juice with apple cider vinegar or balsamic vinegar
• Add sliced avocado, cherry tomatoes, or shredded carrots for extra color and nutrients

FAQs

• Can I make this salad ahead of time? It’s best served fresh, but you can prepare the dressing and chop veggies separately to save time.
• How long does the salad keep? Store undressed salad components separately in the fridge for up to 2 days. Add dressing just before serving.
• Is this salad gluten-free and vegan? Yes, it contains no gluten and is vegan-friendly.

Serving and Suggestions

• Serve alongside grilled chicken, fish, or tofu for a complete meal
• Pair with crusty bread or your favorite grain bowl
• Use as a refreshing side for barbecue or picnic gatherings

This Everyday Salad is a fresh, simple, and healthy option that fits effortlessly into any meal plan.