Save Last summer, my neighbor brought this over after I mentioned I was too tired to cook. She left the bowl on my counter with a knowing smile, and I ended up eating the entire thing standing up while texting her that I needed the recipe immediately.
My sister was visiting from New York and had spent months complaining that city salads were either depressing or overpriced. I threw this together using whatever was in my fridge, and she literally stopped mid-sentence to ask what I had done to the dressing.
Ingredients
- Romaine lettuce: Provides that satisfying crunch that holds up beautifully against the tangy dressing without getting sad and wilted
- Cucumber: Adds incredible freshness and a cool contrast to the bright lemon notes
- Sweet bell pepper: Brings natural sweetness and gorgeous color that makes the whole bowl feel celebratory
- Feta cheese: The salty creaminess that ties all the fresh vegetables together perfectly
- Extra-virgin olive oil: Creates that luxurious mouthfeel that makes simple vegetables feel special
- Fresh lemon juice: The absolute star that brightens every single bite and makes the flavors pop
- Dijon mustard: Helps the dressing come together into something cohesive and emulsified
- Honey: Just enough to balance the acidity and bring out the natural sweetness of the peppers
- Sea salt and black pepper: Essential for making all those fresh flavors actually sing
Instructions
- Whisk together the magic:
- Combine olive oil, lemon juice, Dijon mustard, honey, salt, and pepper in a small bowl, whisking until the mixture transforms into something smooth and cohesive
- Pile on the crunch:
- Place chopped romaine, sliced cucumber, and bell pepper in your largest salad bowl
- Make it shine:
- Drizzle the dressing over the vegetables and toss gently until every leaf and slice is lightly coated
- Add the finishing touch:
- Sprinkle crumbled feta over the top and serve immediately while everything is still crisp and perfect
Save This became my go-to for unexpected guests after my friend Sarah showed up with pizza and I literally threw this together in the time it took to heat the oven. Now she texts me asking for the salad instead of offering to pick up dinner.
Make It Your Own
Fresh herbs like parsley or mint will completely transform this into something restaurant-worthy, and a handful of toasted walnuts or pine nuts adds the most incredible crunch.
The Cheese Situation
Goat cheese works beautifully if you want something milder, or you could leave it out entirely and the dressing is strong enough to carry the whole show on its own.
Texture Magic
Sliced avocado or toasted nuts will turn this from a simple side into something that feels substantial enough for dinner, especially when you are craving something fresh but actually filling.
- Massaging the lettuce with a tiny bit of olive oil first makes it even more tender
- Red onion adds the most gorgeous color and sharp bite if you want more complexity
- The dressing keeps in the fridge for days so you can double it and have tomorrow lunch sorted
Save Sometimes the simplest food is the food that actually makes you feel good, and this salad has gotten me through more hot tired evenings than I care to count.
Recipe FAQs
- → What type of lettuce works best?
Romaine lettuce provides a crisp texture that complements the fresh vegetables and feta well.
- → Can I make the lemon dressing ahead of time?
Yes, whisk the dressing ingredients in advance and refrigerate briefly, but dress the salad just before serving to keep veggies crisp.
- → Are there good alternatives to feta cheese?
Goat cheese can be used as a creamy substitute, or omit cheese for a dairy-free version.
- → How can I add more texture to the salad?
Incorporate sliced avocado or toasted nuts like almonds or walnuts for added crunch.
- → Is this salad suitable for gluten-free diets?
Yes, all ingredients used are naturally gluten-free and ideal for gluten-sensitive individuals.
- → What herbs pair well with this salad?
Fresh parsley or mint add bright, aromatic notes that enhance the overall flavor.