I absolutely love a good classic house salad! To me, it embodies the simplicity and freshness of everyday cooking. Whenever I whip up this dish, I’m taken back to my childhood, where I learned the essentials of salad making from my grandmother. She always had a garden overflowing with veggies, and I can remember those summer afternoons spent picking fresh tomatoes, cucumbers, and greens. It’s a recipe that feels nostalgic and wholesome, and I think it brings a touch of joy to any meal.
What’s unique about this house salad is its versatility. You can serve it as a light lunch or as a side dish to complement your favorite main course. Plus, every time I make it, I get to mix and match whatever fresh ingredients I have on hand, which always leads to delicious surprises. So let’s dive into this fabulous recipe!
What’s in Classic House Salad?
Lettuce: The base of our salad! I love using a mix of romaine and iceberg for that perfect crunch. Go for organic if you can—sometimes the flavor difference is incredible!
Cucumbers: Fresh, crisp, and hydrating! I like to peel them for a little extra flair and slice them into rounds or half-moons.
Tomatoes: Cherry tomatoes are my go-to! They’re sweet, juicy, and you can just pop them in your mouth. If you’re using larger tomatoes, be sure to cut them into bite-sized pieces.
Carrots: Grated or shredded, they add a lovely sweetness and vibrant color. Plus, they’re super easy to prepare!
Red Onion: Just a sprinkle of thinly sliced red onion adds a nice punch of flavor. If it’s too strong for your taste, soak the slices in cold water for about ten minutes to mellow them out.
Bell Peppers: I love using a mix of colors—red, yellow, and green—for that visual appeal and sweetness. Plus, they’re packed with vitamins!
Olive Oil: A drizzle of good quality extra virgin olive oil brings everything together. Look for a robust flavor!
Vinegar: I’m a balsamic fan, but apple cider vinegar works wonders too! It adds that bright acidity we need for balance.
Is Classic House Salad Good for You?
Absolutely! This salad is a powerhouse of nutrients and fiber.
Lettuce: Low in calories, high in water content, and full of vitamins A and K, it’s a wonderful base for any meal.
Cucumbers: These refreshing veggies are not only hydrating but are also a source of antioxidants.
Tomatoes: They are packed with vitamin C and lycopene, which is great for heart health.
Carrots: A fantastic source of beta-carotene and fiber, they contribute to eye health and digestion.
However, keep in mind that the health benefits can take a hit if you load up on calorie-dense dressings or toppings. Moderation is key!
Ingredients for Classic House Salad
– 4 cups of mixed lettuce (such as romaine and iceberg)
– 1 medium cucumber, sliced
– 1 cup of cherry tomatoes, halved
– 1 medium carrot, grated or shredded
– ¼ cup of red onion, thinly sliced
– 1 cup of bell peppers, sliced (mix of colors)
– 3 tablespoons of extra virgin olive oil
– 1 tablespoon of balsamic vinegar or apple cider vinegar
– Salt and pepper to taste
*Serves 4-6*
How to Make Classic House Salad?
1. Start by washing and drying your lettuce thoroughly; nobody enjoys a soggy salad! Tear the lettuce into bite-sized pieces and place it in a large salad bowl.
2. Slice the cucumber into rounds or half-moons and add them to the bowl.
3. Halve the cherry tomatoes, and toss them in with the cucumber and lettuce.
4. Grate or shred the carrot, and sprinkle it over the salad for that beautiful color.
5. Thinly slice the red onion, and you can either add it right away or soak the slices in cold water for 10 minutes first. This step helps take off some of the sharpness if you prefer a milder flavor.
6. Slice the bell peppers and add a vibrant splash of color and crunch to your salad.
7. In a small bowl or jar, mix together the olive oil, vinegar, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Shake or whisk until well combined.
8. Drizzle the dressing over the salad, toss gently to combine, and serve immediately!
Serving Tips and Tricks to Elevate Your Salad
– Want to add some protein? Throw in some grilled chicken, chickpeas, or even a sprinkle of feta cheese for a delicious twist.
– It’s a great way to use up leftover veggies—don’t be afraid to get creative with whatever you have in your fridge.
– If you’re prepping in advance, keep the dressing separate until just before serving to prevent the salad from becoming soggy.
This classic house salad is sure to brighten up your table any day of the week! I encourage you to make it, add your favorite ingredients, and remember to enjoy every bite. Let me know how it turns out and if your own version has any fun twists! Happy cooking!
