Description
A fresh and vibrant garden salad with crisp vegetables and a zesty citrus dressing. This quick and healthy salad is perfect as a side or light main dish. Gluten-free and customizable with protein or nuts for extra flavor!
Ingredients
Scale
Salad:
- 4 cups mixed salad greens
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 cucumber, sliced
- 1 red bell pepper, thinly sliced
- 1 carrot, shredded
- ½ red onion, thinly sliced
- 1 avocado, diced
- 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
- 2 tbsp fresh mint, chopped
Citrus Dressing:
- ¼ cup olive oil
- 2 tbsp fresh orange juice
- 1 tbsp fresh lemon juice
- 1 tbsp honey (or maple syrup for vegan)
- 1 tsp Dijon mustard
- 1 garlic clove, minced
- ½ tsp salt
- ¼ tsp black pepper
Instructions
- Prepare the vegetables – Wash and dry the salad greens. Slice and chop the vegetables as directed.
- Assemble the salad – In a large salad bowl, combine the greens, tomatoes, cucumber, bell pepper, carrot, red onion, and avocado. Toss gently.
- Make the dressing – Whisk together olive oil, orange juice, lemon juice, honey, Dijon mustard, garlic, salt, and pepper until emulsified.
- Dress the salad – Drizzle the dressing over the salad and toss lightly to coat evenly.
- Garnish and serve – Sprinkle fresh parsley and mint over the top. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Notes
- Protein Boost – Add grilled chicken, shrimp, or tofu.
- Nutty Crunch – Sprinkle with toasted almonds, walnuts, or sunflower seeds.
- Cheese Addition – Crumbled feta or goat cheese enhances creaminess.
- Citrus Twist – Substitute lime or grapefruit juice for a unique flavor.
- Spicy Kick – Add red pepper flakes or sliced jalapeños.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Salad, Side Dish
- Method: no cook ,raw
- Cuisine: american,Mediterranean
Keywords: Fresh garden salad, citrus dressing, healthy salad recipe, summer salad, gluten-free salad