Why You’ll Love This Recipe

The Family Favorite Salad is a vibrant, refreshing blend of crisp vegetables, savory toppings, and a tangy homemade dressing that has become a go-to at gatherings and weeknight dinners alike. It’s simple to prepare, endlessly customizable, and strikes the perfect balance between healthy and satisfying. Whether served as a side or a main, this salad brings everyone to the table.

ingredients

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

romaine lettucetomatoescucumberred onionblack olivesfeta cheesetoasted nuts (such as almonds or walnuts)croutonshard-boiled eggscherry pepper rings

For the dressing:

olive oilred wine vinegarDijon mustardgarlic (minced)honey or sugardried oreganoSalt and pepper

directions

Wash and dry all vegetables thoroughly.

Chop the romaine lettuce and place it in a large salad bowl.

Slice the tomatoes, cucumber, and red onion thinly; add them to the bowl.

Add black olives, crumbled feta cheese, toasted nuts, and croutons.

Peel and slice the hard-boiled eggs and place them on top.

If using, add cherry pepper rings for a tangy kick.

In a small bowl or jar, whisk together olive oil, red wine vinegar, Dijon mustard, minced garlic, honey, oregano, salt, and pepper until emulsified.

Pour the dressing over the salad just before serving and toss gently to combine.

Servings and timing

This recipe serves 6–8 people as a side or 4 as a main course.Preparation time: 15 minutesTotal time: 15 minutes

Variations

Add grilled chicken, steak, or shrimp for a protein boost.

Swap feta for blue cheese or shredded cheddar for a flavor twist.

Include avocado slices or roasted corn for added richness.

Use baby spinach or mixed greens instead of romaine for a different base.

Top with seeds like pumpkin or sunflower for extra crunch.

storage/reheating

Store leftover salad (without dressing) in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Store the dressing separately to keep the salad crisp. Toss just before serving. Avoid reheating, as this is a cold dish.

FAQs

Can I make this salad ahead of time?

Yes, prepare all ingredients and store separately. Combine and dress just before serving.

What’s the best way to toast nuts?

Toast nuts in a dry skillet over medium heat for 3–5 minutes until fragrant, stirring frequently.

Is this salad gluten-free?

Yes, if you omit the croutons or use gluten-free versions.

Can I use bottled dressing?

You can, but homemade dressing enhances the flavor and freshness significantly.

What kind of protein works best?

Grilled chicken, sliced steak, or hard-boiled eggs are all great additions.

Can I skip the cheese?

Absolutely, for a dairy-free version, omit the cheese or use a plant-based alternative.

How do I keep the lettuce crisp?

Make sure it is completely dry after washing and store it in the fridge wrapped in paper towels.

Conclusion

The Family Favorite Salad lives up to its name with a mix of textures, flavors, and freshness that pleases every palate. Its versatility makes it ideal for casual meals and festive occasions alike. Quick to assemble and easy to customize, this salad is bound to become a staple in your meal rotation.