If you’re looking for a salad that’s as easy to whip up as it is delicious, the Classic House Salad – Quick and Easy is your answer! This recipe has become a beloved staple in my kitchen because it combines fresh ingredients and vibrant flavors. Whether it’s a busy weeknight dinner or a gathering with friends, this salad fits right in. Plus, it’s so versatile that you can easily make it your own!

What I love most about this Classic House Salad is how refreshing it feels. The crisp romaine lettuce paired with juicy cherry tomatoes and crunchy cucumbers creates the perfect balance of textures. And let’s not forget that homemade apple vinegar vinaigrette—it adds just the right zing to wake up your taste buds!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Quick Preparation: This salad takes only 10 minutes to prepare, making it ideal for last-minute meals.
Family-Friendly: With simple ingredients, everyone will enjoy this fresh and colorful dish.
Versatile: You can easily customize the toppings or add proteins to make it a complete meal.
Healthy Choice: Packed with veggies, this salad is a nutritious addition to any meal.
Make-Ahead Friendly: You can prepare the dressing and chop the veggies in advance for easy assembly later.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering simple, wholesome ingredients is part of the fun! For this Classic House Salad – Quick and Easy, you’ll need a mix of fresh vegetables and a delightful vinaigrette that ties everything together. Here’s what you’ll need:

For the Salad

1 head of romaine lettuce – 4-5 cups, chopped
1 cup sliced cherry tomatoes
1/2 cup chopped cucumber
1/2 cup shredded carrots (or matchstick carrots)
1/3 cup diced or sliced red onion
1 cup croutons – I used Olivia’s croutons which are gluten-free

For the Vinaigrette

1/4 cup apple vinegar
1/2 cup extra virgin olive oil
1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
1 tablespoon maple syrup
1 teaspoon dried oregano
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1/4 teaspoon kosher salt
1/4 teaspoon black pepper

Variations

One of the best things about salads is their flexibility! You can switch things up to suit your taste or use what you have on hand. Here are some fun variations to try:

Add Protein: Toss in some grilled chicken, chickpeas, or tofu for added heartiness.
Change Up the Greens: Swap out romaine for spinach or kale for a different flavor profile.
Mix in Fruits: Add slices of apples or berries for a sweet twist.
Experiment with Nuts: Sprinkle some toasted walnuts or almonds for extra crunch.

How to Make Classic House Salad – Quick and Easy

Step 1: Prepare the Vinaigrette

Start by combining all of the vinaigrette ingredients in a mason jar fitted with a lid. Shake well until everything is emulsified. If you prefer, you can whisk them together in a bowl instead. This step is crucial as it blends all those wonderful flavors into one delicious dressing!

Step 2: Assemble the Vegetables

In a large bowl, gather all of your chopped veggies: romaine lettuce, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, shredded carrots, and red onion. When you layer these vibrant colors together, you not only boost visual appeal but also enhance flavor combinations.

Step 3: Dress Your Salad

Pour your homemade dressing over the salad and toss gently to combine everything evenly. If you’re feeling fancy, top it off with grated parmesan cheese. Mixing in the dressing at this point ensures every bite is bursting with flavor!

Now you’re ready to serve this delightful Classic House Salad – Quick and Easy! Enjoy every bite knowing you’ve made something fresh and healthy with love!

Pro Tips for Making Classic House Salad – Quick and Easy

Creating a vibrant and delicious house salad is as easy as pie when you follow these simple tips!

Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh, in-season vegetables not only enhance the flavor of your salad but also add a delightful crunch and color. Visiting your local farmer’s market can help you find the freshest produce.
Customize to Your Taste: Feel free to swap out or add any veggies you love! Bell peppers, radishes, or even avocados can give your salad a unique twist that reflects your personal taste.
Let It Chill: Allowing your salad to chill in the refrigerator for about 30 minutes before serving enhances the flavors and makes it even more refreshing, especially on warm days.
Master Your Dressing: Don’t hesitate to adjust the dressing ingredients according to your preference. A touch more maple syrup for sweetness or an extra dash of garlic powder can elevate the taste even further.
Prep Ahead for Convenience: Pre-chop your veggies ahead of time and store them in airtight containers. This way, you can throw together this classic house salad in just minutes!

How to Serve Classic House Salad – Quick and Easy

Serving this bright and colorful classic house salad can be just as fun as making it! Here are some ideas to present this dish beautifully.

Garnishes

Fresh Herbs: Chopped fresh herbs like basil or parsley can add a burst of freshness and aroma to your salad.
Nuts or Seeds: Toasted sunflower seeds or sliced almonds provide a delightful crunch while boosting the nutritional value.
Extra Croutons: A handful of additional croutons on top adds texture and makes it visually appealing.

Side Dishes

Grilled Chicken: Juicy grilled chicken breast makes for a protein-packed addition that complements the freshness of the salad.
Quinoa Salad: A light quinoa salad with lemon dressing offers a nice contrast in texture while adding healthy grains to your meal.
Vegetable Soup: A warm cup of vegetable soup pairs perfectly with this salad, providing comfort on cooler evenings.
Garlic Bread: Crispy garlic bread adds a satisfying crunch and is an excellent way to soak up any leftover vinaigrette from your plate.

With these pro tips and serving suggestions, you’re ready to enjoy a Classic House Salad – Quick and Easy that’s not only delicious but also visually stunning. Happy eating!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Classic House Salad – Quick and Easy is a fantastic option for meal prep, making your weeknight dinners simpler and healthier. You can prepare the salad components in advance, allowing you to enjoy fresh salads throughout the week!

Storing Leftovers

Store any leftover salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
Keep the vinaigrette separate until you’re ready to serve to prevent sogginess.
Consume within 2-3 days for the best flavor and freshness.

Freezing

It’s not advisable to freeze this salad as fresh vegetables can lose their texture and taste when thawed.
Instead, consider prepping ingredients like chopped veggies and storing them in the freezer for future use.

Reheating

This salad is meant to be enjoyed cold, so there’s no need to reheat it!
Simply toss with dressing just before serving for a refreshing experience.

FAQs

Have questions about making this Classic House Salad – Quick and Easy? Here are some common inquiries!

Can I customize the ingredients in my Classic House Salad?

Absolutely! Feel free to add your favorite vegetables or proteins like chickpeas or grilled chicken. The dressing pairs well with many options.

How long does the vinaigrette last?

The vinaigrette can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week. Just give it a good shake before using!

Is this salad suitable for meal prep?

Yes! This Classic House Salad – Quick and Easy is perfect for meal prep. Just store the dressing separately until you’re ready to eat.

Can I add fruits to my house salad?

Definitely! Adding fruits like sliced apples or berries can enhance the flavor profile and provide a delightful sweetness.

Final Thoughts

I hope you find joy in preparing this Classic House Salad – Quick and Easy! It’s not only a vibrant addition to any meal but also a quick solution for healthy eating. Enjoy experimenting with different ingredients, and don’t hesitate to make it your own. Happy cooking, and may every bite bring you a smile!