Mixed Green Salad with Balsamic Vinaigrette
Ingredients
- 2 tablespoons aged balsamic vinegar
- 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
- 1 tablespoon maple syrup
or honey
- 1/4 teaspoon kosher salt
- 6 tablespoons olive oil
- 8 cups salad greens
- ¼ cup dried cherries
or cranberries
- ¼ cup cheese crumbles
feta, goat, or gorgonzola
- ¼ cup slivered almonds
or walnuts, pecans, or pistachios
Directions
- 1
In a medium bowl, whisk together the balsamic vinegar, Dijon mustard, maple syrup, and salt until fully combined. Gradually whisk in the olive oil, adding 1 tablespoon at a time and whisking until it incorporates, until an emulsion forms. Serve immediately. Store refrigerated and bring to room temperature before serving (keeps at least 2 weeks).
- 2
Dress 8 cups salad greens with the desired amount of dressing; reserve the rest for future use.
- 3
On each plate, place 2 cups salad greens and sprinkle with dried fruit, cheese crumbles, and nuts.
Mixed Green Salad with Balsamic Vinaigrette
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About this Recipe
Craving a vibrant, flavorful side dish that comes together in mere minutes? This Mixed Green Salad with Balsamic Vinaigrette is your answer, transforming simple greens into an elegant accompaniment for any meal.
Why This Salad Works So Well
The magic of this salad lies in its sophisticated yet approachable homemade balsamic vinaigrette. By combining aged balsamic vinegar, zesty Dijon mustard, and the nuanced sweetness of maple syrup, you create a perfectly balanced dressing that truly elevates the fresh greens. This recipe delivers a gourmet taste without the fuss, ready in just 10 minutes.
What to Expect From This Fresh Side
Prepare for a delightful interplay of textures and flavors. You'll enjoy the crisp freshness of mixed greens, beautifully coated in a tangy, slightly sweet, and savory balsamic dressing. Each forkful brings a satisfying chew from the dried cherries and a pleasant crunch from the slivered almonds, punctuated by the creamy, salty bite of cheese crumbles. It’s a bright, refreshing dish that complements a wide array of main courses without overpowering them, offering a welcome lightness to your table.
Customization & Variations
This versatile salad offers several simple ways to tailor it to your preferences or pantry. For the dried fruit, feel free to swap the dried cherries for cranberries. When it comes to cheese, experiment with different cheese crumbles like feta, goat cheese, or gorgonzola to alter the flavor profile. Similarly, the slivered almonds can be exchanged for walnuts, pecans, or pistachios for a different nutty note.
Serving & Context
This mixed green salad is the perfect versatile side, ideal for rounding out weeknight dinners, holiday meals, or casual gatherings. Serve it alongside roasted chicken, grilled fish, or a hearty pasta dish for a complete and satisfying spread.