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Classic House Salad – Quick and Easy

Nothing warms the heart quite like a vibrant, fresh salad, particularly as we welcome fresh seasonal produce into our kitchens. The Classic House Salad brings to mind sunny afternoons spent gathered around the table, sharing laughter and stories along with bright flavors. This salad is not only a quick and easy answer to your weeknight dinner needs, but it also bursts with colors and tastes that remind us of life’s simplest joys. The crunch of crisp romaine, the juicy sweetness of cherry tomatoes, and the right amount of tang from the vinaigrette dance together, making each bite a comforting experience. This is one you’ll definitely want to pin for later!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Quick and Easy: Perfect for busy weeknights, taking only minutes to prepare.
Fresh Ingredients: Celebrate seasonal produce with crisp lettuce, juicy tomatoes, and refreshing cucumber.
Crowd-Pleasing: Great for family meals or gatherings, it appeals to a wide variety of tastes.
Customizable: Easily add your favorite ingredients or adjust the dressing to fit your preferences.
Healthy Option: Loaded with veggies, this salad is a wholesome addition to any meal.

What You’ll Need

To make this Classic House Salad, gather the following simple ingredients:

1 head of romaine lettuce – 4-5 cups, chopped
1 cup sliced cherry tomatoes
1/2 cup chopped cucumber
1/2 cup shredded carrots or matchstick carrots
1/3 cup diced or sliced red onion
1 cup croutons – I used Olivia’s croutons which are gluten-free
Grated parmesan cheese – optional for topping
1/4 cup red wine vinegar
1/2 cup extra virgin olive oil
1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
1 tablespoon maple syrup
1 teaspoon dried oregano
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1/4 teaspoon kosher salt
1/4 teaspoon black pepper

Let’s Make It Together

Prepare the Vinaigrette: In a mason jar with a lid, combine the red wine vinegar, extra virgin olive oil, Dijon mustard, maple syrup, dried oregano, garlic powder, kosher salt, and black pepper. Seal the jar and shake vigorously to emulsify. Alternatively, you can whisk the ingredients together in a bowl.
Chop the Veggies: In a large bowl, add the chopped romaine lettuce, sliced cherry tomatoes, chopped cucumber, shredded carrots, and diced red onion.
Add the Croutons: Toss in the croutons for that delightful crunch, enhancing the salad’s texture.
Dress the Salad: Pour the prepared vinaigrette over the salad and gently toss everything together, ensuring that every piece is coated in the flavorful dressing.
Top It Off: If you like, sprinkle some grated parmesan cheese on top for a luscious finish, adding an extra layer of flavor.

Variations & Creative Twists

Zesty Additions: Add a handful of sliced olives or a sprinkle of feta cheese for a Mediterranean twist.
Protein Boost: Top your salad with grilled chicken or chickpeas to turn it into a hearty meal that’s still easy to prepare.
Seasonal Flavors: Feel free to throw in some seasonal fruits like strawberries or apples for a sweet touch.
Spicy Kick: Add chopped jalapeños for a spicy kick that brings a new dimension to your salad.

Chef Emma’s Helpful Tips

Make-Ahead Genius: Prepare the vinaigrette the night before and store it in the fridge to save time. Just give it a shake before use.
Veggie Swaps: Feel free to swap out any of the veggies based on what you have on hand or what’s in season. Bell peppers and avocados work wonderfully too!
Storage Suggestions: Keep any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to two days. If you want to avoid soggy veggies, store the dressing separately and add it just before serving.

Nutrition Information per Serving

Serving Size: 1 large bowl
Calories: 200
Carbs: 12g
Sugar: 4g
Fat: 17g
Protein: 4g
Sodium: 220mg

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make this ahead?
Absolutely! You can prepare the vinaigrette a day in advance and assemble the salad without the dressing until you’re ready to serve.

Can I use different ingredients?
Certainly! You can customize this house salad with your favorite vegetables and toppings.

How do I store leftovers?
Place any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two days. Remember to keep the dressing separate to maintain freshness.

How long does it last?
This salad is best enjoyed fresh, but it can be stored for about 2 days in the fridge if stored correctly.

Cozy Closing Note

The Classic House Salad is more than just a dish; it’s a celebration of freshness, simplicity, and the beautiful bond of shared meals. A colorful array of vegetables, crunchy croutons, and a zesty vinaigrette come together to create a dish that feels both homey and comforting. Save this Classic House Salad – Quick and Easy to your recipe board so it’s ready when you need a cozy treat! Happy cooking!