Why You’ll Love This Recipe
The Family Favorite Salad is a fresh, colorful, and flavorful mix of crisp vegetables, crunchy toppings, and a tangy homemade dressing. It’s a perfect side dish for any meal and can also stand on its own as a light, wholesome lunch or dinner. This crowd-pleasing recipe is easy to customize and ideal for gatherings, potlucks, or weeknight dinners.
ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
romaine lettucecherry tomatoescucumberred onionshredded cheddar cheesecroutonscrispy bacon bitsavocadosliced black olivesboiled eggshomemade or store-bought ranch or Italian dressing
directions
Wash and dry all fresh produce thoroughly.
Chop the romaine lettuce and place it in a large salad bowl.
Slice the cherry tomatoes in half, dice the cucumber, thinly slice the red onion, and cut the boiled eggs into quarters.
Dice the avocado just before serving to keep it fresh and green.
Add all the chopped vegetables, olives, eggs, and avocado to the lettuce.
Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese, bacon bits, and croutons evenly over the salad.
Drizzle with your preferred dressing and gently toss the salad until evenly coated.
Serve immediately for best texture and flavor.
Servings and timing
This recipe serves approximately 6 people.Preparation time: 15 minutesTotal time: 15 minutes
Variations
Add grilled chicken, steak, or shrimp for a heartier meal.
Use a different cheese like feta or blue cheese for extra flavor.
Swap romaine for spinach, kale, or a spring mix.
Add nuts or seeds like almonds or sunflower seeds for extra crunch.
Try a balsamic vinaigrette for a different dressing profile.
storage/reheating
Store undressed salad components in separate airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.Avoid storing tossed salad, as it becomes soggy.Dressing can be kept in the fridge for up to a week in a sealed container.
FAQs
Can I make this salad ahead of time?
Yes, prep all the ingredients ahead and store them separately. Assemble just before serving.
What’s the best dressing for this salad?
Ranch and Italian are popular choices, but feel free to use your favorite.
Is it gluten-free?
It can be made gluten-free by using gluten-free croutons and dressing.
Can I use bagged lettuce?
Yes, pre-washed bagged lettuce is a great time-saver.
What protein can I add?
Grilled chicken, hard-boiled eggs, beans, or tofu are excellent additions.
How do I keep the avocado from browning?
Add it right before serving or toss it with a little lemon juice.
Conclusion
The Family Favorite Salad is a delicious and versatile dish that’s quick to prepare and endlessly adaptable. With its vibrant ingredients and bold flavors, it’s no wonder this salad remains a staple on so many tables. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or just looking for a satisfying side, this recipe is sure to become a go-to in your home.
Print
The Family Favorite Salad Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Total Time: 15 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Salad
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: Mediterranean
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
A refreshing and wholesome salad that’s a family favorite, combining crisp vegetables, protein-rich chickpeas, and a zesty homemade dressing.
Ingredients
- 2 cups romaine lettuce, chopped
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 cucumber, sliced
- 1/2 red onion, thinly sliced
- 1 cup canned chickpeas, drained and rinsed
- 1/2 cup shredded carrots
- 1/4 cup feta cheese, crumbled
- 1/4 cup olives, sliced
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tbsp red wine vinegar
- 1 tsp Dijon mustard
- 1 garlic clove, minced
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- In a large salad bowl, combine romaine lettuce, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, red onion, chickpeas, shredded carrots, feta cheese, and olives.
- In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, red wine vinegar, Dijon mustard, minced garlic, salt, and pepper to make the dressing.
- Pour the dressing over the salad and toss well to combine.
- Serve immediately or chill in the refrigerator for 15-20 minutes before serving.
Notes
- For a vegan version, omit feta cheese or use a plant-based alternative.
- Add grilled chicken or tofu for extra protein.
- Best served fresh, but can be stored in the fridge for up to 2 days without dressing.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bowl
- Calories: 220
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 400mg
- Fat: 13g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 9g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 18g
- Fiber: 5g
- Protein: 7g
- Cholesterol: 10mg
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