Simple Salad Recipes for Side Dishes, Lunch and Dinner

Salads are the perfect option for light lunches, healthy dinners and delicious side dishes. We have an excellent selection of easy and simple salad recipes for every occasion.

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Salad Dressing Recipes To Complement Any Salad

Salad Dressing Recipes

No salad recipe is complete without a delicious dressing. Whether it’s a creamy caesar salad dressing, a simple olive oil based dressing for Greek Dishes or even Asian style dressings, the flavours can really make or break a dish. We have included a delicious and simple vinaigrette for you to try on your salads at home below.

Balsamic Vinaigrette Salad Dressing

Ingredients:

4 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar
1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
1 clove garlic, minced
1/2 teaspoon honey
Salt and black pepper to taste

Instructions:

Prepare the Ingredients: Measure out the olive oil, balsamic vinegar, Dijon mustard, and honey using tablespoons. Mince the garlic finely.
Mix the Base: In a bowl, combine the olive oil and balsamic vinegar. Whisk them together until well combined.
Add Mustard and Honey: Add the Dijon mustard to the mixture. This not only adds flavour but also helps to emulsify the dressing.Add honey to balance the acidity. Whisk until the ingredients are thoroughly combined.
Incorporate Garlic: Add the minced garlic to the mixture. Adjust the amount according to your taste preferences.
Season with Salt and Pepper: Season the dressing with salt and black pepper to taste. Keep in mind that the mustard adds some saltiness, so start with a small amount and adjust as needed.
Whisk Until Emulsified: Whisk the dressing vigorously until it emulsifies, creating a smooth and well-blended texture.
Taste and Adjust: Taste the dressing and adjust the ingredients to achieve the desired balance of acidity, sweetness, and seasoning.
Serve: Use the dressing immediately or store it in a sealed container in the refrigerator. Before using, let it come to room temperature and give it a good shake.

Pour it over your favourite salad and enjoy! You can even add different herbs and spices to make it your own.

How to Make your Salad Recipes More Satisfying

Salads are amazing when you make them right. They can incorporate many different flavours and take inspiration from cuisines all around the world. They can also be completely customised to suit your taste and dietary requirements, so whether you're vegetarian, vegan or a meat eater, you can whip up a salad that tastes delicious in no time. Here are some top tips from taking your salad from limp and lifeless to crunchy, flavourful and satisfying.

Mix Up Your Greens: Instead of using just one type of lettuce, mix various greens like spinach, kale, or romaine for different textures and flavours.
Add Colourful Vegetables: Include a rainbow of vegetables for visual appeal, texture and diverse nutrients. Think cherry tomatoes, sweet peppers, carrots, cucumbers, radishes, and more.
Incorporate Fruits: Fresh fruits add sweetness and a burst of flavour. Try adding berries, apple slices, pear chunks, or citrus segments to your salad depending on the season.
Include Nuts and Seeds: Toasted nuts (almonds, walnuts, pecans) and seeds (sunflower seeds, pumpkin seeds) add crunch and a satisfying texture.
Protein Boost: Make your salad more filling by adding protein sources like grilled chicken, prawns and fish, tofu, chickpeas, or hard-boiled eggs.
Fresh Herbs: Fresh herbs like basil, mint, coriander, or parsley can elevate the flavours and add a refreshing touch.

Salad Recipe FAQs

What do I put in a salad?

Typically, you can include a mix of leafy greens (like lettuce, spinach), vegetables (such as tomatoes, cucumbers, carrots), proteins (like grilled chicken, tofu, beans), fruits (optional), nuts or seeds, and dressing.

How many calories in a salad?

Caloric content varies widely depending on ingredients and dressing. A basic salad with leafy greens and vegetables can range from 50 to 200 calories. Adding protein, cheese, nuts, or high-calorie dressings can increase it significantly, however, this can make it so much more nutritious and satisfying.

Is salad good for you?

Yes, salads can be a nutritious choice, providing essential vitamins, minerals, and fibre. However, it depends on ingredients and portion sizes.

What is a Greek salad?

A Greek salad typically includes ingredients like tomatoes, cucumbers, red onions, olives, and feta cheese, dressed with olive oil, oregano, and sometimes lemon juice or vinegar.

What can I serve with salad?

Salad pairs well with various dishes such as grilled meats, sandwiches, and soups, or as a side with pasta or rice dishes.

How do I keep salad fresh?

Store salad ingredients separately in airtight containers, keeping leafy greens dry and crisp by adding a paper towel to absorb excess moisture. The dressing should be added just before serving.

How long does salad last in the fridge?

Generally, a prepared salad will last 3 to 5 days in the refrigerator if stored properly in an airtight container. However, greens may wilt sooner, so it's best to add dressing just before eating to maintain freshness.