How to Make Simple Salad Dressing - A Step-by-Step Guide

When it comes to salads, the dressing can make all the difference. A well-balanced, flavorful dressing can elevate even the simplest of salad ingredients, turning a basic bowl of greens into a delicious and satisfying meal. While store-bought dressings are convenient, there's something special about making your own from scratch. Not only does it allow you to control the ingredients, but it also gives you the opportunity to tailor the flavors to your liking.

One of the best things abou...

Read more Snack recipes

Ingredients

  • 1 medium cucumber
  • 1 head iceberg lettuce, cut into bite-sized pieces
  • 1 head romaine, cut into bite-sized pieces
  • 4 medium plum tomatoes, cut into wedges
  • ½ head chicory, cut into bite-sized pieces
  • ½ cup extra-virgin olive oil, or to taste
  • 3 tablespoons balsamic vinegar, or to taste
  • 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
  • 1 teaspoon lemon juice
  • ½ teaspoon celery seed
  • ½ teaspoon garlic salt
  • ⅛ teaspoon ground black pepper
  • ⅛ teaspoon ground ginger
  • ¼ cup pignoli (pine nuts) (Optional)
  • ¼ cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese

Information

  • Prep Time: 20 mins
  • Total Time: 20 mins
  • Servings: 4

  • Run a fork lengthwise down cucumber skin to create thin stripes. Cut cucumber into thin slices.
  • Place cucumber into a large bowl with iceberg lettuce, romaine, tomatoes, and chicory.
  • Whisk oil, vinegar, Italian seasoning, lemon juice, celery seed, garlic salt, pepper, and ginger together in a small bowl. Pour over salad and toss to coat.
  • Garnish with pine nuts and Parmesan cheese. Serve within 10 to 15 minutes so lettuces don't wilt.
  • Nutrition

    387 cal.

    • Total Fat: 35g
    • Saturated Fat: 6g
    • Cholesterol: 4mg
    • Sodium: 338mg
    • Total Carbohydrate: 16g
    • Dietary Fiber: 6g
    • Total Sugars: 8g
    • Protein: 8g
    • Vitamin C: 38mg
    • Calcium: 153mg
    • Iron: 3mg
    • Potassium: 759mg