Name: Herby Garden Salad with Homemade Lemon Vinaigrette Bliss
Prep time: 15 min
Total time: 30 min
Ingredients: 1/4 cup extra-virgin olive oil (Adds richness; opt for extra-virgin for optimal flavor.); 2 tablespoons white balsamic vinegar (Provides mild acidity.); 1 tablespoon whole grain mustard (Acts as an emulsifier and adds tang.); 1 clove fresh crushed garlic (Ensures robust flavor.); 1 whole lemon (Imparts zesty acidity; always use fresh.); 1 teaspoon sugar (Balances tartness; substitute with honey or maple syrup.); 1/2 teaspoon ground coriander seed (Gives a subtle citrusy note.); 1 cup fresh herbs (Dill, Cilantro, Parsley, Mint, Fresh Basil, Tarragon) (Essential for freshness.); 4 cups fancy lettuce (Baby arugula, Radicchio) (Serves as a delightful base.); 1/4 whole red onion (Provides a sharp crunch.); small handful chives (Adds mild oniony flavor; optional.); 1 whole Cara Cara orange or tangerine (Introduces sweet juiciness.); 1 whole Persian cucumber (Offers crisp coolness.); 1/2 cup goat cheese crumbles or shaved aged gouda (Supplies creamy richness.); 1/4 cup pralines or sweet almond slivers (Adds a delightful crunch.)

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The aroma of freshly chopped herbs swirls around my kitchen, instantly transporting me to sun-drenched summer picnics. This Herby Garden Salad with Homemade Lemon Vinaigrette is not just a dish but an uplifting experience, celebrating the season’s bounty. What I adore about this salad is its versatility—mix and match your favorite greens and herbs to make it truly your own. Not only does it deliver a vibrant, fresh taste, but it also promotes healthy eating effortlessly. Plus, it’s a quick-prep delight that can seamlessly fit into busy weeknight dinners or serve as the star at family gatherings. With every bite, you’ll enjoy the satisfying crunch and zesty notes that come together beautifully. So, are you ready to dive into a bowl of summer goodness and create your own herby masterpiece?

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Why is this salad a summer must-try?

Versatile: Tailor this salad to your taste! Mix and match herbs based on what’s fresh and seasonal for a unique twist each time.

Quick and Easy: With minimal prep time, enjoy a vibrant, healthy dish without the fuss, perfect for busy weekdays.

Flavor Explosion: Each bite delivers a symphony of freshness, combining crunchy veggies with creamy cheese and zesty lemon vinaigrette for an invigorating flavor experience.

Crowd-Pleasing: This salad is ideal for gatherings, effortlessly coordinating with other dishes. Pair it with a slice of crusty bread for a delightful meal!

Nutritional Powerhouse: Packed with vitamins and gluten-free, it’s a guilt-free indulgence you can enjoy any day. Plus, why not serve it alongside Cucumber Chicken Salad for a balanced feast?

Elevate your meals this summer with delicious herby goodness!

Herby Garden Salad Ingredients

• Fresh ingredients for a vibrant salad!

For the Vinaigrette

Olive Oil – Adds richness; opt for extra-virgin for optimal flavor.
White Balsamic Vinegar – Provides mild acidity; can be swapped with apple cider vinegar if desired.
Whole Grain Mustard – Acts as an emulsifier and adds tang; Dijon is a great alternative.
Fresh Crushed Garlic – Ensures a robust flavor; fresher garlic means better taste.
Lemon – Imparts zesty acidity; always use fresh lemons for maximum impact.
Sugar – Balances the vinaigrette’s tartness; substitute with honey or maple syrup for natural sweetness.
Ground Coriander Seed – Gives a subtle citrusy note; you can skip this if you’re not a fan.

For the Salad

Fresh Herbs (Dill, Cilantro, Parsley, Mint, Fresh Basil, Tarragon) – Essential for freshness; mix your favorites for a custom flavor.
Fancy Lettuce (Baby arugula, Radicchio) – Serves as a delightful base; any assortment of greens will work beautifully.
Red Onion – Provides a sharp crunch; replace with green onions for a milder taste if preferred.
Chives – Adds mild oniony flavor; optional, but enhances the overall taste.
Cara Cara Oranges or Tangerines – Introduces sweet juiciness; feel free to use any seasonal citrus or fruit.
Persian Cucumbers – Offers crisp coolness; regular cucumbers can work as a substitute.
Goat Cheese Crumbles or Shaved Aged Gouda – Supplies creamy richness; use feta or a vegan option if desired.
Pralines or Sweet Almond Slivers – Adds a delightful, sweet crunch; swap with sunflower seeds for a nut-free alternative.

Dive into this Herby Garden Salad with Homemade Lemon Vinaigrette and delight in the freshness of your own creation!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Herby Garden Salad with Homemade Lemon Vinaigrette

Step 1: Make the Vinaigrette
In a medium bowl, whisk together 1/4 cup extra-virgin olive oil, 2 tablespoons white balsamic vinegar, 1 tablespoon whole grain mustard, 1 crushed garlic clove, the juice and zest of one lemon, 1 teaspoon sugar, and 1/2 teaspoon ground coriander. Keep whisking until the mixture is well emulsified and slightly thickened, about 1 to 2 minutes. Set this vibrant dressing aside as you prepare the salad.

Step 2: Prepare the Salad Ingredients
Start by coarsely chopping a cup of your favorite fresh herbs, like dill, cilantro, and parsley, and roughly tear 4 cups of assorted fancy lettuce. Next, thinly slice 1/4 of a red onion and a small handful of chives, and chop 1 Persian cucumber into bite-sized medallions. Arrange all the fresh ingredients on your clean cutting board, creating an inviting splash of color as you assemble your Herby Garden Salad.

Step 3: Combine Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, gently toss together the prepared lettuce, chopped herbs, sliced red onion, chives, and cucumber. Peel and segment 1 Cara Cara orange or tangerine, adding the juicy pieces to the mix for sweetness. Crumble 1/2 cup of goat cheese, or your choice of cheese, over the vegetables, enhancing the delightful textures and flavors as the salad takes shape.

Step 4: Dress the Salad
Drizzle the freshly made Lemon Vinaigrette over the salad mixture, starting with half and adding more to taste. With a large serving spoon, toss the salad gently to ensure every crisp leaf and colorful segment is coated with the vinaigrette. Take a moment to appreciate the aroma of fresh herbs as you bring everything together, adjusting the dressing to avoid sogginess and maximize flavor.

Step 5: Serve
Transfer the beautifully tossed Herby Garden Salad to a large serving platter or individual bowls. Just before serving, sprinkle with a handful of pralines or sweet almond slivers for a delightful crunch. Enjoy immediately for the freshest flavors, or let it chill in the refrigerator for about 15 minutes to allow the ingredients to meld together beautifully before sharing with family and friends.

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What to Serve with Herby Garden Salad with Homemade Lemon Vinaigrette

Nothing complements the vibrant, zesty flavors of your salad quite like a few well-chosen side dishes.

Crusty Artisan Bread: The perfect vehicle for scooping up salad, this warm, crispy bread enhances the fresh flavors while providing a satisfying crunch.
Grilled Chicken Skewers: Juicy, smoky chicken brings a hearty heartiness and protein boost, making your meal more filling for everyone at the table.
Quinoa Salad: A nutty, wholesome side packed with protein and fiber beautifully pairs with the freshness of the garden salad, ensuring a well-rounded dining experience.
Herb-Infused Rice: Fragrant rice blends like cilantro lime or lemon herb rice elevate the meal, echoing the aromatic herbs while adding comforting texture.
Roasted Veggies: A medley of colorful, caramelized veggies provides a sweet contrast to the crisp salad, adding another layer of nutritional goodness to your plate.
Sparkling Water with Citrus: Refreshing and light, this bubbly drink enhances the salad’s zesty elements, creating a cohesive, vibrant dining experience that quenches your thirst perfectly.
Fruit Sorbet: A light and refreshing dessert, sorbet complements the citrus notes of your salad, ending the meal on a sweet, cooling note perfect for warm days.

Herby Garden Salad Variations

Get ready to explore delightful twists to this salad, making it even more enticing and personalized for your taste buds!

Herb Swap: Use your favorite herbs! Basil, cilantro, or even chives can transform the flavor profile, inviting fresh, seasonal tastes.
Protein Boost: Add grilled chicken or chickpeas for a filling meal. This swap not only enhances nutrition but also makes the salad heartier for dinner.
Dairy-Free Delight: Replace goat cheese with a creamy vegan alternative or simply omit it for a lighter option. This keeps the dish fresh and enjoyable for everyone.
Spicy Kick: Mix in sliced jalapeños or a sprinkle of red pepper flakes for some heat. It adds a zesty surprise that can elevate the palate.
Crunchy Alternatives: Instead of sweet almond slivers, try sunflower seeds or roasted chickpeas for a nut-free crunch that everyone can enjoy.
Citrus Infusion: Use grapefruit or lime in place of oranges for a different zesty flavor. Each citrus brings its unique character, brightening the salad even more.

Don’t forget you can always serve this refreshing salad alongside dishes like Balsamic Glazed Chicken or a light Shortcake Fluff Salad to create a delightful summer feast!

Make Ahead Options

These Herby Garden Salad with Homemade Lemon Vinaigrette components are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can wash, chop, and refrigerate the vegetables (lettuce, herbs, and cucumbers) up to 3 days in advance. Store them in an airtight container to maintain freshness. Additionally, prepare the vinaigrette and keep it in the refrigerator for up to 5 days; just give it a good whisk before serving to re-emulsify. When you’re ready to enjoy this vibrant salad, simply combine the prepped ingredients in a large bowl, drizzle with the vinaigrette, and toss gently. With these make-ahead tips, you can savor the fresh flavors of your Herby Garden Salad with effortless convenience!

Expert Tips for Herby Garden Salad

Fresh Herbs Matter: Always use fresh herbs for a vibrant flavor. Dried herbs won’t provide the same aromatic punch in your Herby Garden Salad.
Dressing Control: Begin with half the vinaigrette and taste before adding more. You want to enhance the flavors without making the salad soggy.
Add Crunch Last: Mix in any nuts or crunchy toppings just before serving so they maintain their texture and don’t get soggy.
Chill for Flavor: Let the salad sit in the fridge for about 15 minutes before serving for the flavors to meld beautifully.
Customize Ingredients: Feel free to swap out ingredients based on what you have on hand or your personal preferences to make this Herby Garden Salad truly yours!

How to Store and Freeze Herby Garden Salad

Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 2 days to maintain freshness. Keep the dressing separate to prevent the salad from becoming soggy.

Freezer: It is not recommended to freeze the Herby Garden Salad as the fresh ingredients, particularly cucumbers and lettuce, lose their crispness when thawed.

Reheating: Enjoy the salad cold as a refreshing dish. If you want to add warmth, you can briefly toss in a pan, but this will alter the salad’s fresh taste.

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Herby Garden Salad with Homemade Lemon Vinaigrette Recipe FAQs

How do I choose the best herbs for my salad?
Absolutely! When selecting herbs for your Herby Garden Salad with Homemade Lemon Vinaigrette, always opt for fresh, vibrant leaves. Look for herbs that are crisp, with no wilting or dark spots. I often choose a mix of cilantro, dill, and mint, depending on what’s in season. Don’t hesitate to experiment with your favorites or what you have on hand!

How should I store leftovers of the salad?
Very simple! To keep your Herby Garden Salad fresh, transfer leftovers to an airtight container and store them in the refrigerator. This way, they can last for up to 2 days. Remember to keep the dressing in a separate container to prevent the greens from getting soggy!

Can I freeze my Herby Garden Salad?
It’s best not to freeze your salad. Freezing will lead to unwanted texture changes, especially in the cucumbers and greens, which will likely become limp when thawed. A fresh salad is all about the crispness, and I recommend enjoying it fresh!

What should I do if I don’t like a specific ingredient?
Feel free to customize! The beauty of this Herby Garden Salad is that you can easily replace ingredients. For instance, if red onion is too strong for your palate, substitute it with green onions for a milder flavor. Enjoy tailoring the recipe to suit your taste—it makes it more personal and enjoyable!

Is this salad suitable for people with allergies?
Yes! The Herby Garden Salad is generally gluten-free and can be adjusted to accommodate various dietary needs. If anyone has nut allergies, simply swap out pralines or almond slivers for sunflower seeds or omit them entirely. Always check ingredient labels for hidden allergens in store-bought items to keep everyone safe.

How can I enhance the nutritional value of my salad?
To boost the nutrition of your Herby Garden Salad, consider adding grilled chicken or chickpeas for a protein punch. You can also toss in seeds like pumpkin or sunflower for healthy fats and additional crunch. With every added ingredient, you’re not only elevating flavor but also increasing health benefits!