A classic house salad is one of those timeless dishes that never goes out of style. Whether you’re pairing it with grilled chicken, pasta, soup, or serving it as a starter before a family meal, it hits that perfect balance of crunchy greens, fresh vegetables, and a well-balanced homemade dressing. This version focuses on simple ingredients you probably already have on hand, and brings them together in a way that feels both fresh and satisfying.
Unlike heavy, over-dressed salads, a classic house salad celebrates clean flavors, crisp lettuce, colorful vegetables, savory accents, and a bright vinaigrette that brings everything to life. It’s easy to make, perfect for weeknight dinners, and elegant enough to serve at gatherings or holiday meals. In this recipe, you’ll learn how to prepare each component step by step, plus pro tips to make your salad even better.
Why You’ll Love This Salad
This house salad works so well because it relies on texture and freshness. The crisp lettuce offers a light, airy base, while crunchy cucumbers, sweet tomatoes, and crisp peppers add contrast and color. A simple homemade vinaigrette brings zest and brightness without overpowering the vegetables.
It’s the kind of salad that feels light but still satisfying, a great way to start a meal or enjoy alongside a hearty main dish.
Ingredients
For the Salad
- Crisp lettuce (such as romaine or iceberg), washed and chopped
- Cherry tomatoes or diced regular tomatoes
- Cucumber, sliced or diced
- Red onion, thinly sliced
- Bell pepper, any color, chopped
- Black olives, sliced
- Shredded carrots
- Croutons (optional for extra crunch)
- Grated or shaved cheese (Parmesan, cheddar, or your favorite)
For the Dressing
- Extra-virgin olive oil
- Red wine vinegar or apple cider vinegar
- Dijon mustard
- Honey or a touch of sugar
- Fresh lemon juice
- Garlic, minced
- Salt
- Freshly ground black pepper
- Italian seasoning (optional)
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Prep the Vegetables
Start by thoroughly washing all produce under cool running water. Dry the lettuce and vegetables well, especially the lettuce, so your salad stays crisp and the dressing doesn’t get watered down. Chop the lettuce into bite-sized pieces and place them in a large salad bowl.
Slice or chop the tomatoes, cucumbers, bell pepper, and red onion into pieces that are easy to eat with a fork. Add all the vegetables to the bowl. If you enjoy olives, go ahead and add sliced black olives for that slightly briny flavor. Finish with shredded carrots for both taste and vibrant color.
2. Make the Dressing
The dressing for this classic house salad is simple but flavorful, bringing a bright balance of acidity and sweetness.
In a small bowl or jar with a lid, combine olive oil, vinegar, fresh lemon juice, Dijon mustard, minced garlic, a touch of honey or sugar, salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning if you like. Whisk or shake vigorously until the dressing becomes smooth and slightly thickened.
Taste the dressing and adjust the seasoning if needed, you want a good balance of tang from the vinegar and lemon, a hint of sweetness, and richness from the olive oil.
3. Toss the Salad
Just before serving, drizzle a bit of the dressing over the salad. Toss gently to ensure the vegetables are evenly coated. It’s better to start with a little dressing and add more as needed, you can always add more, but you can’t take it away once it’s on.
Once dressed, sprinkle your choice of grated or shaved cheese over the top. If you love extra crunch, add croutons just before serving so they stay crisp.
Variations & Add-Ins
One of the best things about a classic house salad is how customizable it is. Here are some ideas to make it your own:
- Add protein: Grilled chicken breast, shrimp, steak strips, or hard-boiled eggs turn this into a full meal.
- Switch up the cheese: Feta crumbles, goat cheese, or sharp cheddar add different flavor profiles.
- Add nuts or seeds: Toasted almonds, sunflower seeds, or walnuts add texture and healthy fats.
- Use mixed greens: Substitute or mix in arugula, spinach, or spring mix for extra variety.
Pro Tips for a Perfect Salad
Keep it cold: Make sure your ingredients are chilled for maximum crunch.
Dress right before serving: Adding dressing too early makes greens soggy. Add it just before plating.
Balance flavors: Don’t be afraid to taste the dressing and adjust lemon, vinegar, salt, or pepper to your preference.
Prep ahead: You can chop all the vegetables and store them in airtight containers in the fridge for up to a day, just wait to add dressing.
Serving Suggestions
A classic house salad pairs beautifully with:
- Grilled chicken or fish
- Pasta dishes
- Soup and breadsticks
- Burgers or sandwiches
- Holiday meals as a refreshing starter
Whether you’re making a big family dinner or a simple weeknight meal, this salad brings brightness and balance to the table.
Storage
If you have leftover salad (undressed), keep it in an airtight container in the refrigerator and use within a day or two for best texture. Store the dressing separately and toss just before eating. Dressed salad is best enjoyed immediately, as the greens will soften over time.
Final Thoughts
A classic house salad might seem simple, but that’s exactly its charm. With fresh ingredients, a homemade dressing, and a little attention to texture and balance, you’ll have a salad that feels both comforting and vibrant. It’s a reliable side dish that enhances any meal and one that will quickly become a staple in your recipe box.
