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Healthy Summer Salad

A refreshing medley of peak-season vegetables with a zesty vinaigrette that creates the perfect light meal for hot weather.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Servings: 4
Calories: 180

Ingredients
  

For the salad
  • 4 cups mixed greens (arugula, spinach, lettuce)
  • 2 large tomatoes, diced
  • 1 cucumber, sliced
  • 1 red bell pepper, chopped
  • 1/2 red onion, thinly sliced
  • 1 cup fresh corn kernels
  • 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese
  • 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves
For the dressing
  • 1/4 cup olive oil
  • 2 tablespoons lemon juice
  • 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
  • 1 clove garlic, minced
  • salt and pepper to taste

Method
 

  1. Start by washing and thoroughly drying your greens using a salad spinner or clean kitchen towels. Dice tomatoes into bite-sized pieces, removing excess seeds if they're particularly juicy. Slice cucumber into half-moons and julienne the red onion into thin strips.
  2. Whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, Dijon mustard, and minced garlic in a small bowl until emulsified. Season with salt and freshly cracked black pepper, tasting as you go.
  3. Place mixed greens in a large serving bowl, then layer tomatoes, cucumber, bell pepper, and red onion on top. If using fresh corn, blanch kernels for 2 minutes in boiling water for easier digestion, though raw works perfectly fine. Drizzle half the dressing over vegetables and toss gently.
  4. Crumble feta cheese over the dressed salad and tear fresh basil leaves by hand rather than cutting them. Add remaining dressing only if needed. Taste and adjust seasoning before serving immediately.

Notes

Make dressing up to 3 days ahead and store in refrigerator. Chop vegetables morning of serving for maximum freshness. Don't overdress salad - start with less than you think you need. Store undressed components separately for up to 2 days. Keep dressing in sealed jar for up to one week. Never freeze as vegetables will lose crisp texture.