Refresh your lunch or side dish routine with this quick and easy recipe for a bright bowlful that delivers fresh versatility!
Salads aren’t just for vegetarians! I’m a fairly die-hard carnivore who loves a juicy steak, thick pork chop, or savory drumstick—but I also find deep satisfaction in a big bowl of fresh veggies tossed in a light dressing. And this healthy chopped salad recipe is my go-to fave. It’s cool and crunchy, ripe and juicy, refreshing and satisfying all at once.
It’s also quick and easy to toss together for lunch or a weeknight dinner. Plus, it’s colorful and flavorful, thanks to the variety of ingredients and the zesty homemade dressing. It includes all my favorite vegetables, like romaine lettuce and thin-skinned Mediterranean cucumbers that don’t require peeling and are nearly seedless. But you can totally switch it up with your faves or whatever you happen to have on hand. Prefer iceberg or arugula over romaine? Sub it in. Not a fan of shallots? Feel free to swap them for green onions, red onions, or even celery if you prefer a milder taste with extra crunch.
Whether you’re looking for a light side dish or a foundation for a veggie-focused main course, this healthy chopped salad recipe refreshes your kitchen routine!
Tips for a next-level salad
- Start with only a little dressing, then toss and add more if the salad seems dry. You can’t really take dressing out, and a soggy salad is no fun.
- If mini mozzarella balls aren’t your jam, swap the bocconcini for feta crumbles or goat cheese.
- Want a different flavor profile? Switch up the dressing with this Garlic And Lemon Low-Carb Salad Dressing that skips the shallots and brings in a touch of sweetness. Or try this Dijon Vinaigrette for a little mustardy zest.
- Make it a meal by topping your chopped salad with shredded chicken, grilled shrimp, pulled pork, or hard-boiled eggs.
- Top it off with a sprinkle of pepitas, hemp or sunflower seeds, pecans, or chopped Brazil nuts for a little extra low-carb crunch.
How do I store leftovers?
Store leftover dressed salad in an airtight container in the fridge—and enjoy it within 1 day for the best texture, as the greens will quickly begin to wilt. For the best long-term results, store salad components and dressing separately. Undressed greens and veggies can last 3–5 days in separate airtight containers in the fridge. Because this homemade dressing includes fresh garlic and shallots, it’ll only keep for up to 5 days in a well-sealed glass jar in the fridge.
It’s not a good idea to freeze green salads like this one, as the texture will become watery and mushy upon thawing.
Similar recipes to try
Hungry for more quick and easy dishes that bring a fresh attitude to the table? Skip the usual lettuce and try this Shaved Brussels Sprouts Salad for a novel bite. Find layers of creamy flavor in this Keto Broccoli Salad. Curb your fast-food cravings with this hearty yet low-carb Keto Big Mac Salad.
Healthy Chopped Salad Recipe
Ingredients
For The Salad:
- 2 Mediterranean cucumbers (or Persian) diced
- 2 cups cherry tomatoes sliced
- 1/2 cup kalamata olives sliced
- 1/2 cup bocconcini cheese diced
- 1 shallot finely sliced
- 1 avocado peeled and diced
- 4 cups romaine lettuce shredded
- 1/4 cup parsley
For The Dressing:
- 1 clove garlic crushed
- 1/2 shallot finely diced
- 2 tablespoons red wine vinegar
- 1/2 lemon juiced
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Prepare all salad ingredients by chopping into uniform, bite-sized pieces.
- In a jar or small bowl, combine all dressing ingredients and whisk or shake until emulsified.
- Taste and adjust with extra salt, pepper, or lemon juice as needed.
- Add the prepared salad ingredients to a large mixing bowl in the order listed: cucumbers first, then tomatoes, olives, cheese, shallot, avocado, lettuce, parsley. This layering stategy helps ensure even tossing without crushing softer items or making the greens soggy.
- Drizzle the dressing evenly over the salad. Toss thoroughly so all pieces are well coated and every forkful gets flavor. Serve immediately.
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