Description
A simple green salad is a straightforward, fresh dish made primarily with leafy greens such as romaine lettuce, Bibb lettuce, and chives. The beauty of this dish lies in its simplicity, showcasing the natural flavors of fresh greens with a light and tangy dressing. It can be enjoyed on its own or paired with a variety of main dishes like grilled chicken, pasta, or fish. The key to a great green salad is the quality of the ingredients, and this recipe uses only the freshest greens and a dressing that enhances the flavor without overpowering it. The Simple Green Salad is not just easy to prepare but also offers a healthy option for those looking to eat more plant-based meals.
Ingredients
For the Salad:
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1 romaine heart, torn into bite-sized pieces
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1 head Bibb lettuce, torn into bite-sized pieces
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½ bunch chives, chopped finely
For the Dressing:
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1 shallot, minced
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1 tablespoon whole-grain mustard
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1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
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⅓ cup olive oil
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Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions
Start by preparing the dressing first, as this allows the flavors to meld while you prepare the salad. In a small bowl, whisk together the minced shallot, whole-grain mustard, and fresh lemon juice. Season with a pinch of salt and a few cracks of fresh pepper.
Gradually pour in the olive oil while whisking constantly to emulsify the dressing. The goal is to create a smooth, creamy dressing that coats the greens well without separating. Taste the dressing and adjust the seasoning if necessary. If you prefer a tangier dressing, you can add a bit more lemon juice or mustard to your liking.
In a large mixing bowl, combine the torn romaine lettuce, torn Bibb lettuce, and chopped chives. These three ingredients form the base of the salad, providing a mix of texture and flavor. The romaine lettuce adds a crisp crunch, the Bibb lettuce offers a buttery tenderness, and the chives lend a mild, onion-like flavor that complements the other ingredients.
Once the salad ingredients are assembled, drizzle the prepared dressing over the greens. Be sure to toss the salad gently, making sure each leaf is evenly coated with the dressing. This step ensures that the flavors are distributed evenly throughout the salad. Serve immediately for the freshest taste.
This Simple Green Salad pairs wonderfully with any main dish, from grilled meats to light pasta. It can also be served as a stand-alone appetizer or side dish.
Notes
Feel free to customize this salad to your taste! You can add extras like cherry tomatoes, cucumbers, shredded carrots, avocado, nuts, or seeds for more flavor and texture. For a heartier version, top it with grilled chicken, tofu, or boiled eggs. The dressing can also be swapped with your favorite vinaigrette or creamy option. Enjoy experimenting!
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Category: Salad
- Method: Tossing
- Cuisine: American
Keywords: Simple Green Salad