The Best Homemade Salad Recipe
What You’ll Love About This Recipe
This homemade salad recipe is fresh, easy, and packed with flavor, making it perfect for any meal. You’ll love how simple it is to throw together while still tasting amazing.
- Quick to make—just chop, toss, and enjoy in minutes.
- Full of crunch—every bite is satisfying with crisp veggies.
- Endlessly customizable—swap ingredients to match your mood or what’s in your fridge.
Recipe
Creating a fresh and healthy homemade salad is simple and customizable based on your preferences. This recipe uses classic ingredients for a balanced and flavorful dish.
Ingredients:
- 2 cups mixed greens (spinach, arugula, or lettuce)
- 1 cucumber, sliced
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1/2 red onion, thinly sliced
- 1 avocado, diced
- 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
- In a large bowl, combine the mixed greens, cucumber, cherry tomatoes, red onion, avocado, and feta cheese.
- In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil and balsamic vinegar until well combined.
- Drizzle the dressing over the salad and toss gently to coat.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Serve immediately or refrigerate until ready to serve.
Notes:
- Add protein like grilled chicken or chickpeas for a heartier meal.
- Substitute ingredients based on availability or preference.
Equipment:
- Large mixing bowl
- Small whisk or fork
- Measuring cups and spoons
Time:
Prep time: 10 minutes
Cooking time: 0 minutes
Cuisine:
Mediterranean
Serving:
Serves 2-3
Nutrition
This homemade salad is packed with fresh ingredients, offering a nutritious and balanced meal. Below is the nutritional breakdown per serving.
| Nutrient | Amount per Serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | 250 kcal |
| Protein | 8 g |
| Carbohydrates | 20 g |
| Fiber | 5 g |
| Sugar | 6 g |
| Fat | 15 g |
| Saturated Fat | 2 g |
| Sodium | 300 mg |
What To Serve With It
I love pairing my homemade salad with simple side dishes, like crusty bread or roasted veggies, to make it a full meal. If I want something heartier, grilled chicken or crispy tofu adds the perfect protein boost. Trust me, these combos turn a basic salad into something special without extra fuss.
Complementary Side Dishes
Pairing the right sides with your homemade salad can turn a simple meal into something really special. I love serving warm, crusty bread or garlic knots—they’re perfect for soaking up leftover dressing. A light soup, like tomato basil or minestrone, adds comfort without overpowering the salad’s freshness. For crunch, try roasted chickpeas or a handful of crackers. If I’m craving something heartier, a scoop of quinoa or couscous works wonders. And don’t forget a tangy side, like pickled veggies or olives, to balance the flavors. These little extras make the meal feel complete without stealing the salad’s spotlight.
Perfect Protein Pairings
When it comes to making your homemade salad more satisfying, adding protein is the way to go. I love tossing in grilled chicken—it’s simple, flavorful, and keeps me full longer. If you’re plant-based, chickpeas or tofu are fantastic options; they’re versatile and soak up dressings well. For a quick fix, I often add hard-boiled eggs or shredded cheese—it’s creamy and delicious. Salmon or shrimp can elevate a leafy green salad to something special, especially with a zesty dressing. Don’t forget nuts or seeds for crunch and extra protein. Mix and match—each bite can be a new adventure.
