If you’re craving something vibrant, crisp, and bursting with fresh flavors, you have got to try this Fresh Garden Salad with Cherry Tomatoes, Cucumber, and a Tangy Vinaigrette Recipe. It’s one of those effortless classics that marries simplicity with such delightful texture and taste. Imagine juicy cherry tomatoes and crunchy cucumbers mingling with refreshing greens, all brought together by a bright, tangy vinaigrette that wakes up your taste buds. This salad feels like sunshine on a plate, perfect for a quick lunch, a side dish for dinner, or whenever you want a healthy burst of freshness.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This Fresh Garden Salad with Cherry Tomatoes, Cucumber, and a Tangy Vinaigrette Recipe depends on a handful of charming, straightforward ingredients that each play a starring role. From the crisp lettuce that adds volume and crunch, to the juicy tomatoes and cool cucumber slices that deliver bursts of fresh hydration, every component is essential and simple.
- Iceberg lettuce (or other leafy greens): Provides a crisp, refreshing base with satisfying crunch and a neutral flavor that lets the vinaigrette shine.
- Cherry or grape tomatoes: These little jewels bring sweetness and vibrant color, making each bite pop with juiciness.
- Cucumber: Adds a cool, crisp texture and subtle bitterness that balances the salad perfectly.
- Carrot: Offers a sweet earthiness and beautiful orange hue, grated for an easy-to-enjoy texture.
- Fresh parsley or chives: Finely chopped for an herbaceous lift that’s optional but highly recommended if you want to fancy up your salad.
- Cider vinegar (or lemon juice): The acid in this dressing cuts through the richness and brightens the whole salad.
- Extra virgin olive oil: Smooth and fruity, it creates the luscious texture of the vinaigrette.
- Dijon mustard: Adds a subtle kick and helps emulsify the dressing beautifully.
- Salt and black pepper: To season and enhance all the natural flavors.
How to Make Fresh Garden Salad with Cherry Tomatoes, Cucumber, and a Tangy Vinaigrette Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Dressing
Start with the star that ties this salad together — the tangy vinaigrette. Combine cider vinegar, olive oil, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper in a jar or small bowl. Give it a good shake or whisk until it’s beautifully emulsified. Taste it! If you want it creamier, add a bit more oil; for a zestier zing, a touch more vinegar works wonders. If you prefer a hint of sweetness, a pinch of sugar is your secret weapon.
Step 2: Get Your Veggies Ready
While the dressing chills for a moment, prep the salad ingredients. Chop the iceberg lettuce into big, bite-sized pieces. Halve the cherry tomatoes to release their juicy goodness with every bite. Slice the cucumber thinly so it blends effortlessly with the leafy greens. Peel and grate the carrot for a pop of color and mild sweetness. If you’re feeling fancy, finely chop some parsley or chives to sprinkle in.
Step 3: Toss Everything Together
Place all the prepped veggies into a large bowl — this is where the magic happens! Pour the tangy vinaigrette over the top and toss everything gently but thoroughly. You want every leaf and slice to be lightly coated with that vibrant dressing, promising a juicy, tangy bite with every forkful.
Step 4: Serve Immediately
Transfer the tossed salad into a serving bowl or dish. This salad is best enjoyed fresh, so serve it right away to appreciate the crisp textures and bright flavors at their peak.
How to Serve Fresh Garden Salad with Cherry Tomatoes, Cucumber, and a Tangy Vinaigrette Recipe
Garnishes
To elevate this garden-fresh delight, consider adding crunchy toasted nuts or seeds like pumpkin seeds or sliced almonds for a nutty contrast. A sprinkle of crumbled feta or shaved Parmesan can add a creamy, salty dimension. Fresh herbs such as basil or dill bring added aroma and brightness. A light drizzle of balsamic glaze on top can turn this salad into something special for guests.
Side Dishes
This Fresh Garden Salad with Cherry Tomatoes, Cucumber, and a Tangy Vinaigrette Recipe pairs beautifully with grilled chicken, seared salmon, or a simple quiche. For a vegetarian feast, serve alongside warm homemade bread or a hearty grain like quinoa or couscous. The crispness of the salad acts as a refreshing balance to richer mains.
Creative Ways to Present
Presentation can make this fresh salad even more appealing. Try layering ingredients in a clear glass bowl to showcase the vibrant colors. Serve portions in individual mason jars for picnics or casual parties. Or build mini salad cups using sturdy lettuce leaves as natural bowls—perfect for finger food at gatherings.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you’ve got leftovers of your Fresh Garden Salad with Cherry Tomatoes, Cucumber, and a Tangy Vinaigrette Recipe, store the salad and dressing separately in airtight containers. This will keep your greens crisp and prevent sogginess. The salad itself should stay fresh in the fridge for up to two days.
Freezing
Because this salad is packed with fresh vegetables and made with a delicate vinaigrette, freezing is not recommended. Freezing will compromise the texture and freshness of the leafy greens and cucumbers.
Reheating
This salad is served best cold or at room temperature, so there’s no reheating necessary. If you want to enjoy it later, just toss again before serving to redistribute the dressing evenly.
FAQs
Can I use other types of lettuce for this Fresh Garden Salad with Cherry Tomatoes, Cucumber, and a Tangy Vinaigrette Recipe?
Absolutely! While iceberg lettuce provides great crunch, you can swap in romaine, butter lettuce, or mixed greens depending on your preference. Each will add its unique texture and flavor.
Is it possible to make the dressing without mustard?
Yes, you can omit the mustard if you don’t have any or prefer not to use it. Just whisk the vinegar, oil, salt, and pepper thoroughly, but keep in mind the mustard helps emulsify and add a subtle tang.
How can I add protein to this salad to make it a full meal?
Grilled chicken, shrimp, or chickpeas are great options to bulk up this salad. Nuts and seeds also add protein and crunch, turning it into a satisfying main dish.
Can I prepare this salad in advance?
While you can chop veggies in advance, it’s best to toss the salad with the dressing just before serving to keep everything crisp and fresh.
What vinegar works best for the vinaigrette?
Cider vinegar is a classic choice here, but you can substitute with red wine vinegar, white wine vinegar, or even lemon juice for a different yet equally delicious flavor.
Final Thoughts
This Fresh Garden Salad with Cherry Tomatoes, Cucumber, and a Tangy Vinaigrette Recipe is one of those dishes that feels like a breath of fresh air in your meal rotation. It’s quick, colorful, and so versatile, making it a must-have recipe in your kitchen. Next time you want something light, tasty, and full of summer vibes, give this salad a try — I promise you’ll want to make it again and again!
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Fresh Garden Salad with Cherry Tomatoes, Cucumber, and a Tangy Vinaigrette Recipe
- Prep Time: 7 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Total Time: 7 minutes
- Yield: 4 to 5 servings
- Category: Salad
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: International
- Diet: Low Fat
Description
A fresh and vibrant garden salad featuring crisp iceberg lettuce, juicy cherry tomatoes, cucumber, and grated carrot, tossed in a tangy cider vinegar and Dijon mustard dressing. Perfect as a light, healthy side dish or a quick lunch option.
Ingredients
Salad
- 1 small head iceberg lettuce or other lettuce or leafy greens, chopped into big bite size pieces (5 to 6 big handfuls)
- 1 cup cherry or grape tomatoes, halved (~125g/4oz) or 2 tomatoes cut into wedges or chunks
- 1 medium Lebanese/Persian cucumber, sliced (or 1/2 long Telegraph/English cucumber)
- 1 carrot, peeled and grated using a box grater
- 1 tsp parsley or chives, very finely chopped (optional)
Dressing
- 1 tbsp cider vinegar (or any vinegar or lemon juice)
- 3 tbsp extra virgin olive oil (or other neutral oil)
- 1/2 tsp Dijon mustard (or other non-spicy smooth mustard)
- 1/2 tsp cooking or kosher salt (or 1/4 tsp table salt)
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
Instructions
- Dressing: Shake all dressing ingredients together in a jar until well combined. Taste and adjust seasoning according to preference — add more oil for creaminess and less tang, or more vinegar for extra tanginess. You can also add a pinch of sugar if you prefer a subtle sweetness.
- Toss: Place all the salad ingredients—lettuce, tomatoes, cucumber, carrot, and parsley or chives—into a large bowl. Pour the dressing over the salad and toss thoroughly to ensure every bite is coated with the flavorful dressing.
- Serve: Transfer the dressed salad into a serving bowl and serve immediately for the freshest taste and texture.
Notes
- Use any leafy greens you prefer or have on hand for variation, such as romaine, spinach, or mixed greens.
- For added flavor, you can include other fresh herbs like basil or mint along with parsley or chives.
- If you want a sweeter dressing, add a small pinch of sugar or honey to balance the acidity.
- This salad is best eaten fresh to maintain crispness of the vegetables.
- The dressing can be prepared ahead of time and stored in the fridge for up to 3 days.
