Fresh Garden Salad with Creamy Dressing
This fresh garden salad is a perfect light meal or side dish that comes together in just minutes. The creamy homemade dressing brings all the crisp vegetables together with a tangy, herbaceous flavor that beats any store-bought option. It’s ideal for lunch, dinner, or as a refreshing addition to any table.
Ingredients
- 2 cups mixed salad greens
- 1 cucumber, sliced
- 2 medium tomatoes, chopped
- 1/4 red onion, thinly sliced
- 1/2 cup sour cream or Greek yogurt
- 2 tablespoons mayonnaise
- 1 tablespoon white vinegar
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 tablespoon fresh dill or parsley, chopped
Instructions
- In a small bowl, whisk together sour cream, mayonnaise, vinegar, mustard, and minced garlic until smooth.
- Season the dressing with salt, pepper, and fresh herbs. Taste and adjust as needed.
- In a large bowl, combine the salad greens, cucumber slices, chopped tomatoes, and red onion.
- Pour the dressing over the salad just before serving and toss gently to coat all vegetables.
- Divide into serving bowls and serve immediately.
Practical Tips
Prepare ahead: Make the dressing up to 2 hours ahead and store it in the refrigerator, but dress the salad just before eating so the greens stay crisp.
Vegetable freshness: Choose the firmest tomatoes and crispest greens available at your market for the best texture and taste.
Dressing consistency: If you prefer a thinner dressing, add a tablespoon of water or milk to reach your desired consistency.
How to Store It
Keep the dressing in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. Store cut vegetables separately in sealed containers for up to 3 days. Assemble the salad only when you’re ready to eat to maintain the crispness of the greens.
Common Questions
Can I use Greek yogurt instead of sour cream? Yes, Greek yogurt works wonderfully as a substitute and creates an equally creamy dressing with a slightly tangier taste.
What other vegetables can I add to this salad? Bell peppers, carrots, radishes, and celery are all excellent additions that pair well with the creamy dressing.
Is this dressing suitable for other salads? Absolutely, this versatile dressing complements coleslaw, potato salad, and grain-based salads equally well.