Ingredients
Salad Ingredients
- 1 head romaine lettuce, chopped
- 1 cup fresh spinach leaves
- 1 cup fresh arugula leaves
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- ½ cup pre-shredded carrots
- ¼ English cucumber, thinly sliced
- ¼ red onion, thinly sliced
Optional Toppings
- Crumbled feta or goat cheese (optional)
- Toasted nuts or seeds (optional)
- Dried fruits, such as cranberries or raisins (optional)
Balsamic Vinaigrette
- 3 tbsp balsamic vinegar
- 1 tsp honey
- 1 tsp Dijon mustard
- ¼ tsp garlic powder
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 6 tbsp olive oil
Instructions
- Combine Salad Ingredients: Place the chopped romaine lettuce, spinach, arugula, cherry tomatoes, shredded carrots, cucumber slices, and red onion in a large serving bowl. Toss gently to mix the ingredients evenly without bruising the greens.
- Add Optional Toppings: If you like, sprinkle crumbled feta or goat cheese, toasted nuts or seeds, and dried fruits over the top to enhance the texture and flavor of the salad.
- Prepare Balsamic Vinaigrette: In a small bowl or jar, whisk together the balsamic vinegar, honey, Dijon mustard, garlic powder, salt, and pepper until well combined.
- Emulsify Dressing: While continuously whisking, slowly drizzle in the olive oil to emulsify the dressing. Continue whisking until the vinaigrette is well blended and slightly thickened.
- Dress the Salad: Just before serving, drizzle the desired amount of balsamic vinaigrette over the salad. Toss again gently to coat all ingredients evenly with the dressing.
- Serve Immediately: Serve the mixed greens salad right away to ensure freshness and the best texture.
Notes
- For a vegan option, omit cheese and choose a maple syrup or agave syrup instead of honey in the vinaigrette.
- Toasting nuts or seeds before sprinkling enhances their flavor and crunch.
- Use freshly ground black pepper for a more vibrant taste.
- This salad is best enjoyed immediately after dressing to prevent sogginess.
- Feel free to adjust the vinaigrette ingredients to taste for sweetness or acidity.
- Prep Time: 9 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Category: Salad
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
