Go Back
–+ servings
Tossed Salad

Vibrant Tossed Salad That Will Brighten Your Day

This Vibrant Tossed Salad features a colorful medley of fresh vegetables, perfect for every dietary preference!
Print Recipe Pin Recipe
Prep Time 15 minutes
Total Time 15 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Salads
Cuisine: American
Calories: 150
Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Base
  • 4 cups mixed lettuce leaves Provide a fresh, crunchy base; mix various greens for varied flavor.
  • 2 cups arugula Adds peppery notes and extra nutrients; substitute with baby spinach for a milder flavor.
  • 1 cup cucumber Offers hydration and crunch; slice thinly for even distribution.
  • 1 cup radish Contributes a crisp texture and sharp flavor; can be replaced with bell pepper for sweetness.
  • ½ cup red onion Introduces a sharp, tangy taste; use green onions for a milder profile.
For the Flavor
  • ½ cup pitted olives Imparts salty depth and umami; choose black, green, or kalamata based on your preference.
  • ¼ cup extra virgin olive oil Key ingredient for dressing, creating richness; quality matters for taste.
  • 2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar Provides tanginess; substitute with red wine vinegar for a sharper taste.
  • 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar Enhances acidity in dressing; avoid if substituting with balsamic.
  • 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard Offers flavor complexity and helps emulsify the dressing; can be omitted for a simpler dressing.
For the Crunch
  • ¼ cup sunflower seeds Adds crunch and healthy fats; consider pumpkin seeds for a different nutty flavor.
For the Sweetness
  • 1 pinch sugar Balances acidity of vinegar; maple syrup works well for vegan diets.
  • to taste salt Essential for seasoning; adjust to taste.
  • to taste pepper Essential for seasoning; adjust to taste.

Equipment

  • Salad Bowl
  • Whisk
  • mixing spoon

Method
 

Preparation Steps
  1. In a large salad bowl, layer a generous amount of mixed lettuce leaves and fresh arugula. Next, thinly slice a cucumber and radish, adding them to the bowl for a refreshing crunch.
  2. Chop red onion and add to the salad. Scatter pitted olives and sprinkle sunflower seeds over the mixture.
  3. In a smaller bowl, combine the extra virgin olive oil, balsamic vinegar, apple cider vinegar, Dijon mustard, and a pinch of sugar. Whisk until emulsified and smooth.
  4. Taste the dressing, adjusting with salt and pepper as needed. Ensure the dressing glistens.
  5. Drizzle the dressing over your salad mixture. Gently toss to coat all ingredients.
  6. Serve immediately to maintain crispness, plating beautifully or serving directly from the bowl.

Nutrition

Serving: 1cupCalories: 150kcalCarbohydrates: 10gProtein: 3gFat: 11gSaturated Fat: 1gPolyunsaturated Fat: 4gMonounsaturated Fat: 6gSodium: 250mgPotassium: 250mgFiber: 3gSugar: 2gVitamin A: 30IUVitamin C: 40mgCalcium: 4mgIron: 6mg

Notes

Always use fresh vegetables for the best flavor and texture. Dress the salad just before serving to maintain crispness.

Tried this recipe?

Let us know how it was!