There’s something truly comforting about a classic house salad. Every time I whip one up, I’m taken back to memories of sunny picnics in the park and family barbecues where my grandma always had her secret dressing on hand. This salad is so versatile that you can enjoy it as a side or load it up with proteins to make it a meal on its own!
I love this recipe because it reflects the fresh tastes of nature, combines vibrant colors, and is super easy to throw together. Plus, you can customize it to your liking—add a handful of nuts for crunch, toss in some fruits for sweetness, or top it with grilled chicken for a hearty lunch! Let’s dive into this delightful dish that never fails to put a smile on my face.
What’s in Classic House Salad?
Let’s break down the ingredients that make this salad a staple in kitchens everywhere:
Romaine Lettuce: Crisp and refreshing, romaine forms the base of our salad. It’s sturdy enough to hold up to dressings without wilting.
Cherry Tomatoes: These little bursts of sweetness add color and flavor to the salad. I love using a mix of red and yellow for that vibrant look!
Cucumber: A cool, crunchy addition that pairs perfectly with the lettuce. I usually go for Persian cucumbers, as they have fewer seeds and are just so delightful.
Carrots: Shredded or sliced, they contribute a nice crunch and a hint of sweetness. I tend to keep a bag of pre-shredded carrots in my fridge for convenience!
Red Onion: These add a zesty kick. Be careful not to overdo it unless you love that onion flavor as much as I do!
Bell Peppers: Any color will do, but I especially love the sweetness of yellow or red bell peppers. They add a lovely crunch and pop of color!
Croutons: Store-bought or homemade, croutons add that satisfying crunch that makes every bite interesting. I’m definitely partial to garlic-flavored croutons for an extra flavor punch.
Dressing: A classic vinaigrette works perfectly, but my favorite is a homemade mix of olive oil, balsamic vinegar, and a touch of Dijon mustard. Simple yet sooo delicious!
Is Classic House Salad Good for You?
You bet it is! A classic house salad is like a rainbow on your plate, full of vitamins and minerals that your body will thank you for.
Romaine Lettuce: This leafy green is not only low in calories but also packed with vitamin A and folic acid. It’s like health in a bowl!
Cherry Tomatoes: They are a great source of antioxidants, particularly lycopene, which is linked to heart health. Plus, those sweet bites are delightful!
Cucumber: Low in calories and hydrating, cucumbers are perfect for keeping you refreshing and feeling light. They also boast some vitamin K!
Carrots: Rich in beta-carotene, carrots are fantastic for eye health. Who knew a crunchy salad could pack such a nutritional punch?
Red Onion & Bell Peppers: Both are great for adding flavor and provide a variety of vitamins. Bell peppers, in particular, are loaded with vitamin C!
While the salad is great for you, just keep an eye on the dressing and croutons, as they can add extra calories. I recommend using a light hand with the dressing to keep it healthy!
Ingredients List
– Romaine Lettuce (1 head, chopped)
– Cherry Tomatoes (1 cup, halved)
– Cucumber (1, sliced)
– Carrots (1 cup, shredded)
– Red Onion (1/4 cup, thinly sliced)
– Bell Peppers (1 cup, diced)
– Croutons (1 cup)
– Dressing (your choice, about 1/4 cup)
*Serves 4 as a side salad or 2 as a main dish with protein added!*
How to Make Classic House Salad?
1. Start by washing and chopping the romaine lettuce, and place it in a large mixing bowl.
2. Halve the cherry tomatoes, slice the cucumber, shred the carrots, and dice the bell peppers. Add all these colorful veggies into the bowl with the lettuce.
3. Thinly slice the red onion and toss it in. If you find raw onion too strong, remember to soak it in cold water for a bit before adding it to mellow the flavor.
4. Toss the salad gently to combine all those beautiful ingredients.
5. When you’re ready to serve, sprinkle on the croutons, drizzle your choice of dressing, and give it one last gentle toss.
6. Enjoy your refreshing classic house salad!
Dress It Up Your Way!
Feel free to switch things up! I love adding things like grilled chicken, chickpeas, or even avocado for an extra creamy texture. Swap out the croutons for nuts if you’re feeling adventurous, or add in some fruit like strawberries or apples for a sweet touch. The possibilities are endless!
I really hope you give this classic house salad a try—it’s such a joy to eat and so simple to make. Each bite is refreshing and uplifting! Please let me know how yours turns out and any variations you come up with; I can’t wait to hear about it! Happy salad making! 🥗
