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Quick & Simple Italian Side Salad

A fresh and vibrant Italian side salad featuring crisp greens, colorful vegetables, and a zesty homemade vinaigrette.
Print Recipe
Prep Time 15 minutes
Total Time 15 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Side Dish
Cuisine: Italian
Calories: 180
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Salad Base
  • 4 cups mixed salad greens romaine, arugula, radicchio
  • 1 cup cherry tomatoes halved
  • 1/2 cup cucumber sliced
  • 1/4 cup red onion thinly sliced
  • 1/4 cup sliced black olives
  • 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Dressing
  • 1/4 cup extra-virgin olive oil
  • 2 tbsp red wine vinegar
  • 1 tsp Dijon mustard
  • 1 clove garlic minced
  • 1/2 tsp dried oregano
  • salt and black pepper to taste
Garnish
  • fresh basil leaves optional

Equipment

  • Small mixing bowl
  • Large salad bowl
  • Whisk
  • Salad tongs

Method
 

Instructions
  1. Whisk together olive oil, red wine vinegar, Dijon mustard, minced garlic, oregano, salt, and pepper in a small bowl until emulsified.
  2. Place the salad greens into a large bowl and toss gently to fluff.
  3. Add the cherry tomatoes, cucumber, and red onion to the greens.
  4. Top with sliced black olives and grated Parmesan cheese.
  5. Drizzle the dressing over the salad just before serving.
  6. Toss the salad gently with tongs until evenly coated.
  7. Garnish with fresh basil leaves and serve immediately on chilled plates.

Notes

Dry your greens thoroughly after washing to prevent a soggy salad. Store dressing separately from the salad if preparing in advance.