Why You’ll Love This Recipe

The Classic House Salad is a fresh, versatile dish that’s simple to prepare and packed with vibrant flavors. It’s the perfect starter or side dish for any meal, balancing crisp vegetables with a light dressing. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or just need a quick healthy option, this salad is a timeless go-to.

ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

romaine lettucecherry tomatoescucumberred onioncarrotcroutonsparmesan cheesebalsamic vinaigrette (or dressing of your choice)saltpepper

directions

Wash and dry all the vegetables thoroughly.

Chop the romaine lettuce into bite-sized pieces and place it in a large bowl.

Slice the cherry tomatoes in half, thinly slice the cucumber and red onion, and shred the carrot.

Add the tomatoes, cucumber, red onion, and carrot to the bowl with the lettuce.

Toss the salad gently to mix the ingredients evenly.

Top with croutons and freshly grated parmesan cheese.

Drizzle with balsamic vinaigrette or your preferred dressing.

Season lightly with salt and pepper to taste.

Toss again just before serving to coat everything evenly.

Servings and timing

This recipe serves approximately 4 people.Preparation time: 10 minutesTotal time: 10 minutes

Variations

Use mixed greens or spinach instead of romaine for a different base.

Add grilled chicken, shrimp, or tofu for extra protein.

Include avocado slices for a creamy texture.

Swap balsamic vinaigrette with ranch, Italian, or honey mustard dressing.

Incorporate nuts like almonds or walnuts for added crunch.

storage/reheating

Store undressed salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.Keep dressing separate until ready to serve to prevent sogginess.Dressed salad should be eaten within a few hours for the best texture.

FAQs

Can I make this salad ahead of time?

Yes, just keep the dressing separate and add it right before serving.

What are the best croutons to use?

Homemade croutons or high-quality store-bought croutons work great.

Can I use a different cheese?

Absolutely! Feta, goat cheese, or shredded cheddar are delicious alternatives.

Is it okay to add fruits?

Yes, sliced apples, strawberries, or dried cranberries make tasty additions.

How can I make it vegan?

Skip the cheese or use a dairy-free alternative and choose a vegan dressing.

What’s the best way to shred carrots?

Use a box grater or a vegetable peeler for thin carrot strips.

Can I add herbs?

Fresh herbs like parsley, basil, or chives add wonderful flavor.

What if I don’t like onions?

You can omit them or use a milder variety like green onions.

How do I keep the lettuce crisp?

Make sure it’s completely dry after washing and store it with a paper towel to absorb moisture.

Can I double the recipe?

Yes, simply double the ingredients for a larger batch.

Conclusion

The Classic House Salad is a quick, easy, and endlessly adaptable dish that adds freshness and flavor to any meal. With just a few simple ingredients, you can whip up a delicious salad that’s sure to please everyone at the table.