Classic House Salad

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

The Classic House Salad is a fresh, crisp, and versatile side dish that complements virtually any meal. With a mix of leafy greens, colorful vegetables, and a simple homemade dressing, it’s the perfect go-to salad for weeknight dinners, barbecues, or a healthy lunch option. Its simplicity and balance of flavors make it a staple in many homes and restaurants.

ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

romaine lettuce or mixed greens
cherry tomatoes
cucumber
red onion
carrots
croutons
shredded cheese (cheddar or mozzarella)
olive oil
red wine vinegar or balsamic vinegar
Dijon mustard
salt
black pepper

directions

Wash and dry the lettuce thoroughly, then chop or tear into bite-sized pieces.

Slice the cherry tomatoes in half, thinly slice the cucumber and red onion, and shred the carrots.

In a large salad bowl, combine the greens, tomatoes, cucumber, onion, carrots, croutons, and shredded cheese.

In a small bowl or jar, whisk together olive oil, vinegar, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper until well combined.

Drizzle the dressing over the salad just before serving and toss gently to coat all ingredients evenly.

Servings and timing

This recipe serves approximately 4 people.
Preparation time: 10 minutes
Total time: 10 minutes

Variations

Add grilled chicken, shrimp, or hard-boiled eggs for a protein boost.
Use feta or blue cheese for a stronger flavor.
Add avocado slices or olives for extra richness.
Swap red wine vinegar for lemon juice for a citrusy twist.

storage/reheating

Store undressed salad in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days.
Keep dressing separate and only toss when ready to serve to avoid sogginess.
Do not freeze, as the fresh vegetables will lose texture.

FAQs

Can I make this salad ahead of time?
Yes, just keep the dressing and croutons separate until serving to maintain freshness.

What greens work best for a house salad?
Romaine, iceberg, or mixed baby greens are all great choices.

Is this salad gluten-free?
Yes, if you use gluten-free croutons and dressing.

Can I skip the cheese?
Absolutely, the salad is still delicious without cheese.

What other dressings can I use?
Ranch, Caesar, or Italian dressing all work well with this base.

Conclusion

The Classic House Salad is a timeless favorite that’s easy to prepare and endlessly adaptable. Whether you’re pairing it with a main dish or enjoying it on its own, it’s a quick, healthy, and satisfying option you’ll reach for again and again.

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