Simple Side Salad Recipe
User Reviews
5
Simple Side Salad Recipe
Description
The salad starts with a base of spring mix lettuce, which provides mild, tender leaves. Cherry tomatoes add bursts of juiciness and sweetness, balanced by thinly sliced green bell pepper and cucumber for crunch and freshness. Red onion slices contribute sharpness, complemented by shredded carrot for a subtle sweetness and color contrast. Candied pecans introduce a sweet crunch, and croutons add texture and a toasty note.
The salad is dressed with balsamic vinaigrette containing garlic, which adds acidity and savory depth, uniting the flavors. Lightning the salad immediately after tossing preserves the crispness of the vegetables and the crunchiness of the croutons and nuts. Sprinkling flaky sea salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste enhances flavors without overwhelming the natural ingredients.
This side salad is versatile, pairing well with a wide range of meals where a fresh vegetable side is desired. Preparing the ingredients evenly divided among plates helps with portion control and presentation. Serving it soon after assembly keeps ingredients fresh and crisp.
Ingredients
- 4 cups spring mix lettuce
- 1/4 cup cherry tomato halved
- 1/2 green bell pepper , cut into strips
- 1/4 cup cucumber , cut thin and halved
- 2 red onion thin and cut in half, sliced
- 1 tablespoon carrot , shredded
- croutons
- 2 tablespoons pecans candied
- 4 tablespoons balsamic vinaigrette with garlic
- sea salt optional, flaky sea salt, freshly ground pepper
- black pepper optional, flaky sea salt, freshly ground pepper
Instructions
- Evenly divide the lettuce onto 4 small plates. Top with the tomatoes, green pepper, cucumber, red onion, croutons, carrots and pecans.
- Drizzle dressing over each salad, tossing well to evenly coat.
- Sprinkle with flaky sea salt and/or ground pepper. Serve immediately.
- If you've tried this recipe, come back and let us know how it was the comments or star ratings.
Nutrition Information
Show DetailsNutrition Facts
Serving: 4Serving
Amount Per Serving
Calories 61 kcal
% Daily Value*
| Calories | 61kcal | 3% |
| Carbohydrates | 2g | 1% |
| Protein | 0.3g | 1% |
| Fat | 6g | 9% |
| Saturated Fat | 1g | 5% |
| Polyunsaturated Fat | 0.01g | 0% |
| Monounsaturated Fat | 0.003g | 0% |
| Sodium | 137mg | 6% |
| Potassium | 58mg | 1% |
| Fiber | 0.4g | 2% |
| Sugar | 1g | 2% |
| Vitamin A | 107IU | 2% |
| Vitamin C | 14mg | 16% |
| Calcium | 5mg | 1% |
| Iron | 0.1mg | 1% |
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet.