If you’re craving something crisp, refreshing, and bursting with vibrant flavors, this Fresh Mixed Green Salad with Tomatoes, Cucumber, and Red Onion Recipe is just the thing to brighten your meal. It’s wonderfully simple yet wonderfully satisfying, combining fresh, colorful veggies tossed in a zesty red wine vinaigrette. Whether as a quick lunch or a lively side dish at dinner, this salad shines with every bite, offering that perfect balance of crunch, tang, and natural sweetness that keeps you coming back for more.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The magic of this salad comes from a handful of fresh, straightforward ingredients that play off each other perfectly. Each one contributes a distinct texture, flavor, or color, making this recipe easy but exceptional.
- Mixed greens: A fresh 12-ounce assortment gives vibrant color and a tender crunch to the base of the salad.
- Tomatoes: Four ounces of ripe tomatoes add juicy sweetness and a pop of red that livens the plate.
- Cucumber: Three ounces bring a cooling, crisp flavor that balances the other veggies delightfully.
- Red onion: A half-ounce sliced thin lends a gentle sharpness without overwhelming the salad.
- Croutons: One ounce provides satisfying crunch and a toasty contrast in texture.
- Red wine vinegar: Three tablespoons give the dressing a bright, tangy kick that ties everything together.
- Olive oil: A rich quarter cup smooths out the vinaigrette, adding a luscious mouthfeel and a hint of fruitiness.
How to Make Fresh Mixed Green Salad with Tomatoes, Cucumber, and Red Onion Recipe
Step 1: Prep Your Veggies
Start by thoroughly washing the mixed greens to remove any grit, then lightly spin or pat them dry—wet leaves can water down your salad. Dice your tomatoes into bite-sized pieces, peel and slice the cucumber thinly, and finely slice the red onion to ensure every forkful has just the right zesty touch.
Step 2: Combine the Salad Base
In a large bowl, gently toss the mixed greens with the tomatoes, cucumber, and red onion. Mixing by hand helps prevent bruising the tender leaves while evenly distributing the ingredients.
Step 3: Whip Up the Dressing
In a small bowl or jar, combine the red wine vinegar with olive oil. Whisk or shake vigorously to emulsify the dressing, which will bring a perfect balance of acidity and richness to the salad.
Step 4: Dress and Toss the Salad
Pour the dressing over your salad mixture, then toss gently to coat every leaf and vegetable slice evenly. This careful tossing ensures a harmonious flavor in each bite without bruising the delicate greens.
Step 5: Add Croutons Just Before Serving
Sprinkle the croutons over the top right before serving to keep their crunch intact. These little golden cubes add irresistible texture that contrasts beautifully with the fresh vegetables.
How to Serve Fresh Mixed Green Salad with Tomatoes, Cucumber, and Red Onion Recipe
Garnishes
For a delightful finish, consider topping your salad with fresh herbs like chopped basil or parsley which add a burst of aroma. A sprinkle of crumbled feta or shaved Parmesan also elevates the flavors with a savory, salty dimension.
Side Dishes
This Fresh Mixed Green Salad with Tomatoes, Cucumber, and Red Onion Recipe pairs wonderfully with grilled chicken, fish, or even a hearty bowl of soup. Its crispness complements richer mains and adds a refreshing balance to any meal.
Creative Ways to Present
For a charming presentation, serve the salad in individual clear glass bowls or mason jars layered with dressing at the bottom and greens on top, allowing guests to toss their own. Alternatively, use colorful salad plates to emphasize the vibrant reds and greens for an inviting table setting.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have leftovers, store your salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator but keep the dressing separate if possible. Toss the salad just before serving again to keep greens crisp and prevent sogginess.
Freezing
This salad is best enjoyed fresh and does not freeze well. The textures of the greens and vegetables degrade with freezing, so it’s better to prepare fresh batches when needed.
Reheating
Since this is a chilled salad, reheating is not necessary or recommended. The fresh crunch and bright flavors define the dish, so enjoy it cold or at room temperature.
FAQs
Can I use other types of greens for this salad?
Absolutely! Feel free to mix in arugula, spinach, or romaine along with or instead of your usual mixed greens to add different flavors and textures.
What can I substitute if I don’t have red wine vinegar?
Try using apple cider vinegar or lemon juice for a similar bright acidity in your dressing; both provide fresh, tangy notes that work beautifully here.
Can I add protein to make it a full meal?
Yes! Grilled chicken, chickpeas, or even a hard-boiled egg can turn this vibrant Fresh Mixed Green Salad with Tomatoes, Cucumber, and Red Onion Recipe into a satisfying main dish.
How do I prevent the salad from getting soggy?
Drying your greens thoroughly after washing and adding the croutons just before serving are key steps. Also, keep the dressing separate until you’re ready to eat.
Is this salad suitable for meal prep?
It is! Just prep all veggies ahead, store dressing separately, and toss everything together right before mealtime. This keeps the salad tasting as fresh as the day you made it.
Final Thoughts
This Fresh Mixed Green Salad with Tomatoes, Cucumber, and Red Onion Recipe is a timeless classic you’ll want to keep coming back to. Its simplicity showcases the beauty of fresh ingredients, making it a perfect go-to for any occasion. Grab those crisp greens and colorful veggies, and whip up this delightful salad that’s as nourishing as it is delicious. Trust me, your taste buds will thank you.
Print
Fresh Mixed Green Salad with Tomatoes, Cucumber, and Red Onion Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Total Time: 10 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Salad
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
A refreshing and healthy mixed green salad perfect for a light lunch or side dish. This salad features a vibrant mix of fresh greens, juicy tomatoes, crisp cucumbers, tangy red onion, and crunchy croutons, all tossed in a simple red wine vinegar and olive oil dressing.
Ingredients
Salad
- 12 ounces mixed greens
- 4 ounces tomatoes, chopped
- 3 ounces cucumber, sliced
- 1/2 ounce red onion, thinly sliced
- 1 ounce croutons
Dressing
- 3 tablespoons red wine vinegar
- 1/4 cup olive oil
Instructions
- Prepare the vegetables: Wash and dry the mixed greens thoroughly. Chop the tomatoes and slice the cucumber and red onion as specified.
- Make the dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together the red wine vinegar and olive oil until fully combined.
- Toss the salad: In a large salad bowl, combine the mixed greens, tomatoes, cucumber, and red onion. Pour the dressing over the salad and toss gently to coat all ingredients evenly.
- Add croutons and serve: Sprinkle the croutons on top of the salad just before serving to maintain their crispiness.
Notes
- For extra flavor, add salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste.
- Use fresh, crisp vegetables for the best texture and taste.
- To make it vegan or vegetarian, ensure the croutons do not contain animal products.
- Customize by adding other vegetables or nuts as desired.
