Introduction
The classic house salad is a staple found on menus everywhere, beloved for its fresh flavors and versatility. It's a simple dish that brings together a variety of vibrant ingredients, making it both satisfying and nutritious. Whether served as a side or a light meal, this salad can easily be customized to your tastes with a variety of dressings and toppings.
In this recipe, you'll find a combination of crisp greens, fresh vegetables, and a flavorful vinaigrette. This is a quick and easy dish to prepare that delivers on quality without demanding hours of work. Perfect for a weekday dinner or as a starter for a larger meal, the classic house salad is sure to please a crowd.
Ingredients
- 1 head of romaine lettuce – 4-5 cups, chopped
Romaine lettuce serves as the crisp base of the salad, delivering a refreshing crunch. It holds up well against dressings without wilting, providing a sturdy foundation for the other ingredients. - 1 cup sliced cherry tomatoes
Cherry tomatoes add a burst of sweetness and color to the salad. Their juicy texture contrasts perfectly with the crunch of the lettuce, bringing added moisture and flavor. - ½ cup chopped cucumber
Cucumber contributes a cool, crisp texture while also adding hydration to the salad. Its mild flavor allows it to complement the other ingredients without overpowering them. - ½ cup shredded carrots
Shredded carrots introduce a subtle sweetness and vibrant color, enhancing the salad's visual appeal. They also offer a satisfying crunch, making every bite enjoyable. - ⅓ cup diced or sliced red onion
Red onion lends a sharp yet sweet flavor profile that adds depth to the salad. Its vibrant color also contributes to the overall aesthetic appeal. - 1 cup croutons – I used Olivia’s croutons which are gluten-free
Croutons provide a delightful crunch and a burst of flavor, serving as the finishing touch to the salad. They add texture that contrasts beautifully with the fresh vegetables. - ¼ cup red wine vinegar
Red wine vinegar is a key ingredient in the dressing, bringing acidity that helps to balance the flavors of the salad ingredients. It adds zing, awakening the palate. - ½ cup extra virgin olive oil
Extra virgin olive oil adds richness and a smooth, fruity flavor to the dressing. It helps to emulsify the vinaigrette and coats the salad ingredients evenly. - 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
Dijon mustard infuses the dressing with a tangy kick while also acting as an emulsifier, helping the oil and vinegar combine smoothly for a cohesive flavor. - 1 tablespoon maple syrup
Maple syrup provides a hint of natural sweetness that balances the acidity of the vinegar. It enhances the overall flavor of the dressing without being overpowering. - 1 teaspoon dried oregano
Dried oregano contributes an earthy, herbaceous flavor that enriches the dressing. Its aromatic qualities are a classic addition to vinaigrettes. - 1 teaspoon garlic powder
Garlic powder adds a savory depth to the dressing, enhancing its complexity. It imparts that beloved garlic flavor without needing fresh garlic. - ¼ teaspoon kosher salt
Kosher salt acts as a crucial seasoning ingredient, bringing out the natural flavors of the vegetables and enhancing the overall taste of the salad. - ¼ teaspoon black pepper
Black pepper adds a subtle heat and depth to the dressing, rounding out the flavors with its pungent bite.
Directions & Preparation
Step 1: Begin by preparing the vinaigrette.
Combining all vinaigrette ingredients in a mason jar or bowl is the first step to creating a well-balanced dressing. The vinegar and mustard serve as the base, while olive oil emulsifies the mixture, giving it a smooth texture. Shake or whisk until combined, and taste for seasoning adjustments, laying a flavorful foundation for your salad.
Step 2: Chop the romaine lettuce and add it to a large mixing bowl.
Start by washing and thoroughly drying the romaine leaves to ensure crispness. Once chopped, place the lettuce in a large bowl to provide ample space for mixing. This step ensures every bite is loaded with freshness and sets the stage for incorporating the remaining ingredients without crowding.
Step 3: Slice the cherry tomatoes and cucumbers, adding them to the bowl.
Slicing these ingredients allows for even distribution throughout the salad, ensuring each serving captures their flavors. The tomatoes release a little juice, which mingles beautifully with the dressing. Including cucumbers enhances the salad’s crunch, making it more refreshing.
Step 4: Add the shredded carrots and diced red onion to the salad.
These vegetables contribute color, texture, and layers of flavor to your salad. Mixing them in at this stage allows their unique flavors to meld, creating a robust bite full of contrasts. The variety in textures—from crunchy to crisp—keeps the salad engaging.
Step 5: Sprinkle the croutons on top just before serving.
Adding croutons right before serving ensures they retain their crunch and don't become soggy. They provide a delightful textural contrast, making the salad more appealing. Toss lightly to incorporate if desired, keeping the croutons intact for maximum enjoyment.
Step 6: Drizzle the vinaigrette over the salad and toss to combine.
This final step allows the flavors to meld, with dressing evenly coating each ingredient. Tossing gently ensures that the greens don’t tear while getting every bit of flavor. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed, ensuring the salad is balanced and flavorful throughout.
Vinaigrette Variations for Every Taste
The classic vinaigrette recipe provided offers a balanced flavor profile, but feel free to experiment with your preferred ingredients. Swap red wine vinegar for balsamic for a sweeter touch, or add citrus juice for a zesty twist. By tailoring the dressing to your tastes, you can create new flavor combinations to suit any occasion.
Add-Ons to Elevate Your Salad
While the classic house salad is delightful as is, consider adding protein to transform it into a more filling meal. Grilled chicken, chickpeas, or feta cheese can provide a satisfying boost. Adding nuts like walnuts or almonds not only enhances the flavor but also adds an extra crunch, making your salad not just a side dish but a standalone meal.
Choosing the Best Greens
Romaine lettuce is a great base, but don’t hesitate to mix in other greens like spinach, arugula, or mixed greens for added flavor and nutrition. Each type of green brings its unique texture and taste. Experimenting with these can make your classic house salad uniquely yours and incredibly vibrant.
FAQs
What can I do if my vinaigrette is too thin?
If your vinaigrette is too thin, gradually whisk in more olive oil to thicken it. Alternatively, you can add a bit of Dijon mustard to create more emulsification.
How do I make my salad more flavorful?
If your salad tastes bland, ensure each ingredient is fresh and consider adding more seasoning to your dressing. A pinch of salt or a squeeze of lemon juice can make a significant difference.
What if I don’t have cherry tomatoes?
If cherry tomatoes are unavailable, you can substitute with grape tomatoes, or use chopped regular tomatoes. Just make sure they are ripe for the best flavor.
Can I use fresh herbs instead of dried oregano?
Yes, fresh herbs can enhance the dressing with vivid flavors. Use about three times the amount of fresh herbs compared to dried, finely chopped to release their oils.
What size should I chop my vegetables for this salad?
Chop your vegetables into bite-sized pieces to ensure easy eating and a good balance of flavors in each bite. Uniform sizes also create a more visually appealing dish.
How can I adjust the sweetness of the dressing?
If the dressing is too sweet, reduce the amount of maple syrup or replace it with a more tangy component like lemon juice, balancing flavors effectively.
Are there any tasty toppings I can add?
Consider topping your salad with freshly grated cheese, toasted seeds, or crispy bacon bits for extra flavor and texture. These additions can elevate the salad significantly.
Conclusion
The classic house salad is not merely a side dish; it's a canvas for creativity and flavor. With the right balance of fresh ingredients and a simple dressing, it becomes a delightful addition to any meal. Enjoy personalizing it with your favorite flavors to make it uniquely yours.
Next time you find yourself in need of a quick and nutritious meal, remember this classic house salad. Its simplicity and versatility make it a perfect choice for any occasion, whether casual or formal. Dive in and enjoy the fresh flavors!
Recipe Card
Notes
Additional serving suggestions: pair with a crisp salad, garlic bread, or roasted seasonal vegetables for balance.
For make-ahead, prep components separately and assemble just before heating to preserve texture.
Taste and adjust with acid (lemon/vinegar) and salt right at the end to wake up flavors.