A well-crafted house salad is a staple in any home kitchen, offering a perfect blend of crisp vegetables and a tangy vinaigrette. This classic house salad is simple yet delicious, making it an ideal side dish for any meal or a light, refreshing main course. With fresh ingredients and a homemade vinaigrette, this recipe ensures a burst of flavor in every bite. Let’s explore how to create this quintessential salad that will become a favorite in your culinary repertoire.
Ingredients
For the Salad:
- 1 head of romaine lettuce – 4-5 cups,
chopped
- 1 cup sliced cherry tomatoes
- ½ cup chopped cucumber
- ½ cup of carrots, either shredded, chopped, or in matchstick form
- ⅓ cup diced or sliced red onion
- 1 cup croutons – I used Olivia’s croutons which are gluten-free
- Grated parmesan cheese – optional for topping
For the Vinaigrette:
- ¼ cup red wine vinegar
- ½ cup extra virgin olive oil
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- 1 tablespoon maple syrup
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- ¼ teaspoon kosher salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
Instructions
1. Prepare the Salad: Start by washing and chopping the romaine lettuce into bite-sized pieces, then place it in a large salad bowl. Add the sliced cherry tomatoes, chopped cucumber, shredded carrots, and diced or sliced red onion. Toss the vegetables together to ensure an even mix.
2. Add the Croutons and Cheese: Next, sprinkle the croutons over the salad. If you prefer, add a generous amount of grated parmesan cheese for an extra layer of flavor. Set the salad aside while you prepare the vinaigrette.
3. Make the Vinaigrette: In a small mixing bowl, combine the red wine vinegar, extra virgin olive oil, Dijon mustard, and maple syrup. Add the dried oregano, garlic powder, kosher salt, and black pepper. Whisk the ingredients together until the vinaigrette is well-blended and emulsified.
4. Dress the Salad: Pour the homemade vinaigrette over the salad just before serving. Toss the salad gently to ensure all the ingredients are coated with the dressing. Serve immediately to enjoy the fresh and vibrant flavors.
Conclusion
The Best Classic House Salad is a refreshing and versatile dish that complements any meal. With crisp romaine lettuce, juicy cherry tomatoes, crunchy cucumbers, and flavorful red onion, each bite is a delight. The homemade vinaigrette, with its perfect balance of tangy and sweet, elevates this simple salad to new heights. Whether you’re serving it as a side dish or enjoying it as a light meal, this classic house salad is sure to please everyone at the table. Enjoy the freshness and simplicity of this delightful salad, and make it a regular part of your dining experience.