A summer gathering filled with laughter, sunshine, and aroma of grilled meats wafting through the air. You’re buzzing with excitement, planning your menu, and then it hits you: you need a refreshing salad to complement those delicious barbecue flavors. That’s where my Easy Tossed Salad shines.
Let me tell you, this isn’t just any run-of-the-mill salad. It’s vibrant, it’s crunchy, and above all, it’s incredibly easy to throw together. It pairs excellently with grilled chicken, burgers, or even veggie skewers. Whether you’re aiming for a light lunch or a side dish for dinner, this salad fits right into every scenario.
What is Easy Tossed Salad?
Easy Tossed Salad is a delightful combination of fresh vegetables, bright colors, and a zesty homemade dressing that elevates simple ingredients into a fresh dish everyone will love.
Its beauty lies in its adaptability—change the ingredients based on what you have on hand. The crunchy textures and the interesting mix of flavors will keep your taste buds engaged with every bite.
You will also like the following Salad recipes!
- Betty Crocker Tuna Macaroni Salad
- Baked Potato Salad With Greek Yogurt
- In N Out Grilled Onions Recipe
Why You’ll Love this Easy Tossed Salad
Freshness at Its Best
You’ll adore this salad for its freshness. Each bite bursts with crisp veggies and refreshing flavors. The combination of fresh parsley, cucumbers, cherry tomatoes, crunchy radishes, and romaine hearts makes for a colorful dish that’s not only eye-catching but good for you.
Quick to Prepare
Let’s face it. In our busy lives, we often need recipes that can be put together in minutes. This salad can be prepped in under 15 minutes.
Seriously! Just chop, toss, and voilà! With only a handful of ingredients, you’ll be amazed at how something so simple can taste so incredible.
Versatility
I remember a party where I made this salad, substituting what I had because I thought a guest was allergic to one of my usual ingredients. Instead of using sharp cheddar, I added feta, and instead of sunflower seeds, threw in some walnuts.
It was a creative twist, and my friends loved it! That’s the beauty of this dish. Swap in whatever you like based on your preference or dietary needs.
Flavorful Dressings
One of the key components to a great salad is the dressing. The homemade zesty dressing in this recipe is a game-changer.
Using ingredients like extra virgin olive oil, white wine vinegar, and honey, it brings out the flavors of the vegetables beautifully. This dressing is a breeze to make, and I promise you’ll never reach for store-bought again.
Healthy Without Sacrifice
With a mix of fresh vegetables and a lighter dressing, you’re not only enjoying a delicious dish but also fueling your body with nutrition. It’s perfect for those keeping an eye on their health while still wanting to enjoy fantastic food.
The Ingredients You Will Need To Make Easy Tossed Salad
To whip up this delightful salad, gather the following ingredients:
Salad Ingredients
¼ cup chopped fresh parsley
1 medium English cucumber, thinly sliced
1 small carrot, julienned
½ cup sharp cheddar, grated
1 small head of iceberg lettuce, torn into bite-sized chunks
2 cups cherry tomatoes, halved
¼ cup roasted sunflower seeds
½ small red onion, thinly sliced
4 medium radishes, finely sliced
3 cups chopped romaine hearts
Dressing
¼ cup extra virgin olive oil
2 tablespoons white wine vinegar
1 tablespoon natural honey
1 teaspoon Dijon-style mustard
Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
Directions
Step 1: Prepare the Vegetables
Start with washing all your vegetables thoroughly to remove any residual dirt. A quick rinse under cold water will do the trick. Next, chop the parsley, slice the cucumber thinly, and julienne the carrot.
Halving the cherry tomatoes is as simple as it sounds—just make sure they’re bite-sized. Slice the radishes and red onion next. For the lettuce, tear it into bite-sized portions and put it all in a large mixing bowl.
Step 2: Make the Dressing
In a separate bowl, combine the olive oil, white wine vinegar, honey, and Dijon mustard. Season with salt and pepper. Whisk the mixture until it emulsifies, meaning it becomes a cohesive blend. The key here is the balance of flavors—sweet, tangy, and savory. Taste and adjust accordingly.
Step 3: Combine and Serve
Pour the dressing over the prepared salad ingredients. Toss gently but thoroughly, ensuring everything is coated with that zesty goodness.
You can serve it immediately or allow it to sit for a few minutes, letting the flavors meld together. Serve chilled or at room temperature, topped with roasted sunflower seeds for that extra crunch.
Notes
Here are five tips to ensure your Easy Tossed Salad turns out perfectly every time:
- Customize to Your Taste: Feel free to adjust the ratios of ingredients based on personal preference. Don’t like red onions? Omit them! Prefer other veggies? Go ahead and swap in those you enjoy.
- Let It Marinate: If you have time, let the salad sit for 15-30 minutes after tossing. This allows the flavors to meld wonderfully.
- Use Fresh Ingredients: For the best taste, pick the freshest vegetables possible. Visit your local farmers’ market for seasonal produce.
- Batch Prep: You can chop all the veggies and store them in separate containers in the fridge for easy access. This way, preparation becomes a snap.
- Double the Dressing: If you love dressing, feel free to double the batch. Store any extra in the refrigerator for next time.
Storage Tips
To keep your Easy Tossed Salad fresh:
- Refrigerate: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge. It should last about 2 days.
- Avoid Dressing until Serving: If you plan to make this salad ahead, store the dressing separately and add it just before serving to keep the salad crisp.
Nutrition Information
Easy Tossed Salad Recipe Nutrition Facts
Serving Suggestions
To complement your Easy Tossed Salad, consider the following ideas:
- Grilled Chicken: Pairing your salad with grilled chicken adds protein, creating a complete meal.
- Burgers: Whether beef, turkey, or veggie, burgers alongside this salad make an excellent summer spread.
- Pasta Dishes: Serve it as a side with your favorite pasta, allowing the salad’s freshness to balance more indulgent flavors.
- Quinoa Bowls: Add this salad to a quinoa bowl for extra texture and flair.
- Fish Dishes: Pair it with grilled salmon or any white fish for a light, refreshing meal choice.
What Other Substitutes Can I Use in Easy Tossed Salad?
You can always play with ingredients. Here are five outstanding substitutes:
- Spinach for Romaine: Use fresh spinach instead of romaine hearts for a softer texture and a nutrient boost.
- Feta in Place of Cheddar: If you’re a fan of tangy cheese, feta crumbles add a nice Mediterranean twist to your salad.
- Pecans instead of Sunflower Seeds: For a different flavor profile, use coarsely chopped pecans.
- Zucchini Noodles for Cucumber: If you’re looking for something different, spiralize zucchini instead of cucumber.
- Chickpeas for Carrots: Replace the carrots with chickpeas for additional protein and a heartier salad.
Easy Tossed Salad Recipe
Equipment
- Bowl
Ingredients
Salad Ingredients
- ¼ cup chopped fresh parsley
- 1 medium English cucumber thinly sliced
- 1 small carrot julienned
- ½ cup sharp cheddar grated
- 1 small head of iceberg lettuce torn into bite-sized chunks
- 2 cups cherry tomatoes halved
- ¼ cup roasted sunflower seeds
- ½ small red onion thinly sliced
- 4 medium radishes finely sliced
- 3 cups chopped romaine hearts
Dressing
- ¼ cup extra virgin olive oil
- 2 tablespoons white wine vinegar
- 1 tablespoon natural honey
- 1 teaspoon Dijon-style mustard
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Vegetables
- Start with washing all your vegetables thoroughly to remove any residual dirt. A quick rinse under cold water will do the trick. Next, chop the parsley, slice the cucumber thinly, and julienne the carrot.
- Halving the cherry tomatoes is as simple as it sounds—just make sure they’re bite-sized. Slice the radishes and red onion next. For the lettuce, tear it into bite-sized portions and put it all in a large mixing bowl.
Step 2: Make the Dressing
- In a separate bowl, combine the olive oil, white wine vinegar, honey, and Dijon mustard. Season with salt and pepper. Whisk the mixture until it emulsifies, meaning it becomes a cohesive blend. The key here is the balance of flavors—sweet, tangy, and savory. Taste and adjust accordingly.
Step 3: Combine and Serve
- Pour the dressing over the prepared salad ingredients. Toss gently but thoroughly, ensuring everything is coated with that zesty goodness.
- You can serve it immediately or allow it to sit for a few minutes, letting the flavors meld together. Serve chilled or at room temperature, topped with roasted sunflower seeds for that extra crunch.
Notes
- Customize to Your Taste: Feel free to adjust the ratios of ingredients based on personal preference. Don’t like red onions? Omit them! Prefer other veggies? Go ahead and swap in those you enjoy.
- Let It Marinate: If you have time, let the salad sit for 15-30 minutes after tossing. This allows the flavors to meld wonderfully.
- Use Fresh Ingredients: For the best taste, pick the freshest vegetables possible. Visit your local farmers’ market for seasonal produce.
- Batch Prep: You can chop all the veggies and store them in separate containers in the fridge for easy access. This way, preparation becomes a snap.
- Double the Dressing: If you love dressing, feel free to double the batch. Store any extra in the refrigerator for next time.
Nutrition
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I include fruits in this salad?
Absolutely! Apples, berries, or even oranges can add a sweet note to the salad. Just be sure to keep the balance of flavors in mind.
How can I make the salad vegan?
Swap the honey for agave nectar or maple syrup. Ensure your cheese components are dairy-free.
Can this salad be made ahead of time?
Yes! Just prepare the ingredients and dressing separately. Combine them when you’re ready to serve.
Is this salad gluten-free?
Yes! All the ingredients listed are gluten-free. However, double-check any pre-packaged items like mustard for hidden gluten.
How do I incorporate protein into this dish?
You can add cooked grilled chicken, chickpeas, or even hard-boiled eggs for a protein boost.
What can I use if I don’t have olive oil?
Any neutral oil will work, like canola or sunflower oil. Just remember that it will alter flavor slightly.
Conclusion
In a world where healthy eating should be enjoyable, my Easy Tossed Salad stands out as a vibrant and delicious option.
It’s straightforward to prepare, bursts with flavor, and can be tailored to fit any dietary preference or taste. Whether you’re hosting a gathering, preparing a meal for your family, or just craving something fresh, this salad is there to impress.
So grab your vegetables, whip up that zesty dressing, and toss together a salad that’s sure to become a favorite. The joy of sharing fabulous, healthy food is just an Easy Tossed Salad away!
