Perfect Classic American Garden Salad: Crisp & 10 Min

✅ Vegan | Gluten-Free | Crisp & Refreshing | Ready in 10 Minutes

Table of Contents

Introduction:

Sometimes, simplicity is key to a truly delightful meal. Our Perfect Classic American Garden Salad is a vibrant, colorful medley that brings together the best of fresh, crunchy vegetables and leafy greens, all lightly dressed with a tangy balsamic vinaigrette. This isn’t just a side dish; it’s a burst of freshness that supports hydration and overall health, providing a wealth of essential vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants.

Whether you’re looking for a quick, light meal or the ideal accompaniment to your main course, this Classic American Garden Salad recipe is your answer. It’s incredibly quick to prepare – ready in just 10 minutes – and highly customizable, making it a staple for any kitchen. Plus, it’s naturally vegan and gluten-free, catering to a wide range of dietary preferences.

Ingredients:

4 cups mixed salad greens (such as lettuce, spinach, arugula)
1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
1 cucumber, sliced
1/2 red bell pepper, sliced
1/4 red onion, thinly sliced
1/4 cup shredded carrots
1/4 cup walnuts or pecans (optional, for added crunch and healthy fats)
1/4 cup balsamic vinaigrette dressing (store-bought or homemade)

Instructions:

Combine Vegetables: In a large mixing bowl, gently combine the mixed salad greens, halved cherry tomatoes, sliced cucumber, sliced red bell pepper, thinly sliced red onion, and shredded carrots.
Toss Gently: Use large salad tongs or your hands to toss all the ingredients gently, ensuring an even distribution of all the colorful vegetables.
Add Nuts (Optional): If you’re using walnuts or pecans, sprinkle them over the top of the salad now for an extra layer of texture and nutrition.
Dress and Serve: Just before serving, drizzle your desired amount of balsamic vinaigrette dressing over the Classic American Garden Salad. Toss once more to coat lightly, and serve immediately to enjoy its crisp freshness.

Why You’ll Love This Refreshing Garden Salad:

This Perfect Classic American Garden Salad is the epitome of quick and wholesome eating. Its simplicity means you can whip it up in minutes, making it ideal for busy schedules, yet its fresh flavors and satisfying crunch make every bite enjoyable. The vibrant colors are not just appealing to the eye; they signify a diverse array of nutrients contributing to a balanced diet. It’s a fantastic way to boost your daily vegetable intake with minimal effort.

Health Benefits of Key Ingredients:

Every component of this Classic American Garden Salad contributes to your well-being:

Leafy Greens (Lettuce, Spinach, Arugula): These nutritional powerhouses are packed with essential vitamins such as A, C, and K, as well as folate. They play a vital role in supporting a healthy immune system, strong bones, and cellular function.
Tomatoes & Bell Peppers: Bursting with flavor and color, these vegetables are excellent sources of powerful antioxidants (like lycopene in tomatoes) and high levels of Vitamin C, which is crucial for skin health and immune support.
Walnuts & Pecans (Optional): If included, these nuts provide a good source of heart-healthy omega-3 fatty acids, which are beneficial for brain health and reducing inflammation, along with plant-based protein for sustained energy.
Balsamic Vinaigrette: While adding a delicious tangy flavor, a quality balsamic vinaigrette often contains antioxidants and can enhance the absorption of fat-soluble vitamins from the vegetables, all without adding excessive calories.

From My Kitchen to Yours

This Perfect Classic American Garden Salad is more than just a quick meal — it’s a celebration of fresh, vibrant ingredients. With its perfect balance of crisp textures and tangy flavors, it’s a dish that feels incredibly nourishing and satisfying every time. Whether you’re serving it for lunch, dinner, or as a refreshing side, this vegan and gluten-free Classic American Garden Salad will quickly become one of your go-to recipes for healthy simplicity.

Looking for more delicious and wholesome ideas? 👉 Explore our full collection of Healthy Vegan Recipes for more plant-based meals you’ll love!