Simple Green Salad with Lemon Vinaigrette and Roasted Tamari Almonds

Introduction

A fresh, vibrant green salad is the perfect way to elevate any meal, whether it’s served as a side dish or enjoyed on its own. This simple green salad features tender butter lettuce, crisp cucumber, creamy avocado, and nutty pepitas, all tossed in a bright and tangy lemon vinaigrette. The star of the dish, however, is the crunchy, umami-packed roasted tamari almonds, adding depth and texture to every bite.

What makes this salad truly special is the balance of flavors and textures. The buttery softness of the lettuce contrasts beautifully with the crunch of the almonds and pepitas. The cool, refreshing cucumber adds a crisp bite, while the creamy avocado lends richness to every mouthful. The bright acidity of the lemon vinaigrette brings all these components together, enhancing each ingredient’s natural flavors.

If you’re looking for an easy yet elegant salad that is both nutritious and flavorful, this recipe is for you. It’s versatile, quick to make, and can be customized to suit your preferences. Whether you want a light side dish or a more substantial meal, this salad can be adjusted to fit any occasion. With just a few tweaks, you can turn this simple dish into a Mediterranean-inspired salad with olives and feta, a protein-packed meal with grilled chicken or shrimp, or a heartier dish by adding quinoa or chickpeas.

This salad is also an excellent option for meal prep. By keeping the dressing separate and adding the avocado just before serving, you can enjoy fresh, delicious greens throughout the week. It’s perfect for busy weeknights, packed lunches, or even special gatherings when you need a quick yet impressive dish.

Below, we will walk you through the ingredients, preparation steps, and expert tips to help you make the best simple green salad. No matter how you customize it, this recipe will quickly become a staple in your kitchen.

Ingredients

For the Salad:

• 2 small heads of soft lettuce (butter lettuce or similar)
• 1 Persian cucumber, thinly sliced
• ¼ cup shaved Parmesan cheese
• 2 tablespoons pepitas (pumpkin seeds)
• 1 avocado, thinly sliced
• ¼ cup microgreens
• Flaky sea salt (optional, for finishing)

For the Lemon Vinaigrette (Half Recipe):

• ¼ cup fresh lemon juice
• ¼ cup extra virgin olive oil
• 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
• 1 teaspoon honey or maple syrup
• 1 small garlic clove, finely minced
• ¼ teaspoon sea salt
• Freshly ground black pepper, to taste

For the Roasted Tamari Almonds:

• ½ cup raw almonds
• ½ tablespoon tamari (or low-sodium soy sauce)

Instructions

Step 1: Roast the Tamari Almonds

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Spread the raw almonds on the sheet and toss them with tamari until evenly coated.
3. Bake for 10 to 14 minutes, or until the almonds are slightly browned and fragrant.
4. Remove from the oven and let them cool for at least 5 minutes before using in the salad. The cooling process allows them to become extra crunchy.
5. Once cooled, roughly chop the almonds if you prefer smaller pieces in the salad.

Step 2: Prepare the Lemon Vinaigrette

1. In a small bowl or jar, whisk together lemon juice, Dijon mustard, honey (or maple syrup), minced garlic, salt, and black pepper.
2. Slowly drizzle in the olive oil, whisking continuously until the dressing emulsifies.
3. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
4. For a more intense garlic flavor, let the dressing sit for at least 10 minutes before using.

Step 3: Assemble the Salad

1. In a large salad bowl, gently tear the butter lettuce into bite-sized pieces.
2. Drizzle a few spoonfuls of the lemon vinaigrette over the lettuce and toss to coat evenly.
3. Layer on the sliced cucumber, shaved Parmesan, pepitas, avocado slices, and roasted tamari almonds.
4. Drizzle with a bit more vinaigrette and finish with microgreens on top.
5. If desired, sprinkle with a pinch of flaky sea salt for an extra burst of flavor.
6. Serve immediately for the best taste and texture.

Tips for the Best Simple Green Salad

• Use fresh, high-quality ingredients: Since this salad is simple, freshness is key. Opt for organic greens and ripe avocado for the best flavor.
• Make the dressing ahead of time: The lemon vinaigrette can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week. Shake well before using.
• Customize to your taste: Swap out pepitas for sunflower seeds, replace Parmesan with feta, or add grilled chicken for extra protein.
• Don’t overdress the salad: Start with a small amount of dressing, toss, and add more if needed. Overdressing can make the lettuce soggy.
• Toast the pepitas for extra crunch: Lightly toasting the pepitas in a dry skillet enhances their nutty flavor.
• Enhance the dressing: If you love a little more zing, add a teaspoon of apple cider vinegar or zest from the lemon for extra citrusy freshness.

Why This Salad Works

• Balance of textures: Creamy avocado, crunchy almonds, and crisp cucumber create a delightful mix of textures.
• Bright and tangy flavors: The lemon vinaigrette adds a refreshing zest that complements the richness of the avocado and cheese.
• Nutrient-dense and wholesome: Packed with healthy fats, fiber, and essential vitamins, this salad is as nourishing as it is delicious.
• Quick and easy: With minimal prep time, this salad is perfect for busy weeknights or last-minute gatherings.

Variations and Add-Ons

• Add protein: Top the salad with grilled chicken, shrimp, chickpeas, or tofu for a heartier meal.
• Make it extra crunchy: Toss in a handful of toasted walnuts, pecans, or crispy roasted chickpeas.
• Go Mediterranean: Swap Parmesan for feta, add kalamata olives, and drizzle with a touch of balsamic glaze.
• Sweet and savory twist: Add fresh berries like strawberries or pomegranate seeds for a hint of natural sweetness.
• Spicy kick: Sprinkle some red pepper flakes or add thinly sliced jalapeños for heat.

Serving Suggestions

This salad pairs beautifully with a variety of dishes:

• As a side dish: Serve alongside grilled chicken, fish, or a hearty pasta dish.
• As a light lunch: Add protein like chickpeas, shrimp, or quinoa for a more substantial meal.
• With soup: Enjoy with a bowl of tomato soup or butternut squash soup for a comforting meal.
• On its own: Serve as an elegant starter at a dinner party or holiday gathering.
• With crusty bread: Serve with a side of warm, crusty sourdough or focaccia for a complete meal.

Final Thoughts

A simple green salad doesn’t have to be boring! With fresh ingredients, a homemade lemon vinaigrette, and crunchy roasted tamari almonds, this dish is a flavorful and satisfying addition to any meal. Whether you enjoy it as a side dish or a main course, this salad is sure to impress.

This recipe is also incredibly versatile—you can switch up ingredients based on what’s in season or what you have in your pantry. Try different dressings, toppings, and add-ons to make it your own. For example, swap out the Parmesan for goat cheese or blue cheese for a more intense flavor, or add a handful of roasted chickpeas for extra crunch and plant-based protein.

Additionally, you can turn this salad into a more substantial meal by incorporating grains like quinoa, farro, or wild rice. The grains will add texture and provide a heartier base that pairs well with the bright lemon vinaigrette. If you’re looking to boost protein content, consider adding grilled shrimp, seared tofu, or shredded rotisserie chicken.

Another way to customize this salad is by experimenting with different nuts and seeds. While tamari almonds add a rich umami crunch, you can also try candied pecans for a sweet and savory contrast, or toasted sesame seeds for an earthy, nutty depth. Likewise, you can elevate the vinaigrette by infusing it with fresh herbs like basil or dill, or adding a splash of balsamic glaze for a touch of sweetness.

For an elegant presentation, consider layering the ingredients on a large serving platter rather than tossing them in a bowl. This makes it easier for guests to pick their favorite components and also enhances the visual appeal of the dish.

Give this salad a try today and discover how a few quality ingredients can create something truly delicious. Whether for a casual weeknight dinner, a light lunch, or a special occasion, this simple green salad will quickly become a go-to favorite!

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