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Easy summer salad recipes for a crowd

This vibrant, crisp, and refreshing party salad is the ultimate make-ahead side dish. Loaded with fresh vegetables and a zesty homemade vinaigrette, it perfectly serves any large summer gathering beautifully.
Course Salad, Side Dish
Cuisine American
Keyword Easy summer salad recipes for a crowd
Prep Time 15 hours
Total Time 15 hours
Servings 12
Calories 150kcal
Author C. Sophie

Ingredients

  • 1 head Romaine lettuce chopped
  • 1 bag spring mix or iceberg lettuce
  • 2 cups cherry or grape tomatoes halved
  • 1 English cucumber sliced
  • 1/2 red onion thinly sliced
  • 1 cup button mushrooms sliced
  • 1 cup shredded carrots
  • 1 bell pepper chopped
  • 1/2 cup extra virgin olive oil
  • 3 tablespoons red wine vinegar
  • 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
  • 1 tablespoon honey
  • Salt and black pepper to taste
  • Optional toppings: Feta cheese croutons, sunflower seeds, or dried cranberries

Instructions

  • Wash and dry all salad greens thoroughly to prevent a soggy base.
  • In an extra-large serving bowl, combine the Romaine lettuce and spring mix or iceberg lettuce.
  • Layer the tomatoes, cucumber, red onion, mushrooms, carrots, and bell pepper over the greens.
  • In a small mason jar or bowl, combine the olive oil, red wine vinegar, Dijon mustard, honey, salt, and pepper. Shake or whisk vigorously to emulsify.
  • If making ahead, cover the salad bowl with a damp paper towel and refrigerate without dressing.
  • Right before serving, toss the salad with the dressing, or leave the dressing and optional toppings like feta cheese and croutons on the side to create a DIY salad bar for your crowd.

Notes

Calories: 150 kcal, Total Fat: 12g, Saturated Fat: 2g, Sodium: 180mg, Carbohydrates: 10g, Dietary Fiber: 3g, Sugars: 6g, Protein: 3g