Print

Garden Salad with Cherry Tomatoes, Cucumber, and Homemade Vinaigrette Recipe

Print Recipe

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

4.3 from 15 reviews

A quick, refreshing garden salad featuring crisp iceberg lettuce, juicy tomatoes, cool cucumber, and grated carrot, tossed in a simple homemade vinaigrette dressing. Perfect as a light side dish or a healthy snack.

Ingredients

Salad

  • 1 small head iceberg lettuce or other leafy greens, chopped into big bite size pieces (5 to 6 big handfuls)
  • 1 cup cherry or grape tomatoes, halved (~125g/4oz), or 2 tomatoes cut into wedges or chunks
  • 1 cucumber, sliced (medium Lebanese / Persian cucumber, or 1/2 long Telegraph/English cucumber)
  • 1 carrot, peeled and grated using a box grater
  • 1 tsp parsley or chives, very finely chopped (optional)

Dressing

  • 1 tbsp cider vinegar (or any vinegar or lemon juice)
  • 3 tbsp extra virgin olive oil (or other neutral oil)
  • 1/2 tsp Dijon mustard (or other non-spicy smooth mustard)
  • 1/2 tsp cooking/kosher salt (or 1/4 tsp table salt)
  • 1/2 tsp black pepper

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Dressing: In a jar, combine cider vinegar, extra virgin olive oil, Dijon mustard, salt, and black pepper. Shake well until the dressing is fully emulsified. Taste and adjust by adding more oil for creaminess, more vinegar for tanginess, or a pinch of sugar if desired.
  2. Toss the Salad: Place the chopped lettuce, halved tomatoes, sliced cucumber, grated carrot, and chopped parsley or chives (if using) in a large bowl. Pour the dressing over the salad ingredients and toss thoroughly to ensure even coating.
  3. Serve Immediately: Transfer the dressed salad to a serving bowl and serve immediately to enjoy the fresh and crisp flavors at their best.

Notes

  • Using freshly chopped herbs like parsley or chives adds a lovely fresh flavor but is optional.
  • Adjust vinegar and oil quantities to balance tanginess and creaminess to your preference.
  • For added sweetness, a small pinch of sugar can be added to the dressing.
  • This salad tastes best when served immediately to keep the lettuce crisp and fresh.
  • Feel free to substitute ingredients based on availability, such as using mixed greens instead of iceberg lettuce.

Find it online: https://lauracooks.com/garden-salad-with-cherry-tomatoes-cucumber-and-homemade-vinaigrette-recipe/