Everyday Garden Salad (Plus a Simple Healthy Salad Formula That Works Every Time)

 

Fresh, simple, and satisfying, this Everyday Garden Salad is perfect for healthy starts to the new year. Plus, learn a flexible salad formula you can use again and again.

Everyday Garden Salad (Plus a Simple Healthy Salad Formula That Works Every Time)

The start of a new year makes me crave food that feels fresh and balanced — not fussy, not complicated, just good. This Everyday Garden Salad is exactly the kind of meal I make when we’ve eaten a little heavier earlier in the day and I want dinner to feel lighter without feeling like I’m missing out.

I especially love salads like this on busy weeknights, when I want something quick and nourishing, and at lunch on the weekends, when I’m craving something crisp, colorful, and satisfying. It’s simple, flexible, and endlessly adaptable — the kind of salad you can throw together without a recipe, once you know the formula.

That’s why I’m sharing not just this Everyday Garden Salad, but my simple, healthy salad formula that works every time. Think of it as a mix-and-match guide you can use all year long, whether you’re starting fresh in January or just trying to get a wholesome meal on the table any day of the week.

Enjoy!

My Simple Healthy Salad Formula

Over the years, I’ve learned that the salads I make most often aren’t strict recipes — they’re built on a formula. Once you understand the balance, you can mix and match ingredients based on what you have, what’s in season, or what you’re craving.  This will give you a balanced salad that satisfies, fuels, and actually keeps you full.

The 5-Part Everyday Healthy Salad Formula

1. Greens (The Base)
Start with tender greens like green leaf lettuce, romaine, mixed greens, or arugula.

2. Crunchy Veggies (Texture)
Think cucumbers, carrots, radishes, bell peppers, or celery.

3. Color Boost (Nutrients + Appeal)
Add color with tomatoes, roasted veggies, beets, or fruit.

4. Protein or Power Add-In (Staying Power)
Garbanzo beans, lentils, grilled chicken, tuna, eggs, or tofu all work beautifully.

5. Simple Dressing (Flavor + Healthy Fats)
Keep it easy: olive oil + vinegar, lemon juice, or balsamic.

This balance is what makes a salad feel satisfying instead of like an afterthought.

Why I Reach for Salads Like This So Often

This salad has become my go-to for everyday life because it’s versatile, satisfying, and completely hassle-free. On busy weeknights, it comes together in minutes and feels light without skimping on flavor or satisfaction. On weekends, it’s my favorite quick lunch — crisp, colorful, and nourishing — and it always feels like a fresh, intentional choice rather than a last-minute fix. The combination of crunchy veggies, bright colors, protein, and a simple dressing makes it the kind of meal I want to return to again and again, no matter the season.

Ingredients for This Everyday Garden Salad

Salad:

• 1 head green leaf lettuce, washed and torn into bite-sized pieces
• 1 cup sliced cucumbers
• 1 cup heirloom cherry tomatoes, halved (mix of 3 colors)
• 1/2 cup shredded carrots
• 1 cup garbanzo beans (cooked or canned, drained and rinsed)

Simple Red Wine Vinaigrette:

• 3 tablespoons red wine vinegar
• 3 tablespoons olive oil
• Salt and freshly cracked black pepper, to taste

How to Make It

Ready in minutes:

1. Wash and prepare all the salad ingredients.
2. Combine lettuce, cucumbers, cherry tomatoes, carrots, and garbanzo beans in a large bowl.
3. In a small bowl or jar, whisk together red wine vinegar, olive oil, salt, and pepper.
4. Drizzle dressing over the salad and toss gently to combine.
5. Serve immediately and enjoy a fresh, balanced meal.

Let's Apply the Formula to This Salad

1. Greens

• Green leaf lettuce
• Light, tender, and perfect for everyday eating.

2. Crunchy Veggies

• Sliced cucumbers
• Shredded carrots
• Fresh crunch without overpowering the salad.

3. Color Boost

• Tri-color heirloom cherry tomatoes
  Color = nutrients and visual appeal. This is what makes it feel crave-worthy.

4. Protein / Power Add-In

• Garbanzo beans
  Plant-based protein + fiber to keep you satisfied.

5. Simple Dressing

• Red wine vinegar
• Olive oil
• Clean, classic, and lets the vegetables shine.

How to Use This Formula for Other Salads

Once you know the formula, the possibilities are endless:

• Swap green leaf lettuce for mixed greens or arugula

• Replace garbanzo beans with grilled chicken, tuna, or lentils

• Use lemon juice or balsamic instead of red wine vinegar

• Add seeds, nuts, or cheese if that’s what you’re craving

The goal isn’t perfection — it’s creating a salad you actually want to eat.

More Everyday Salads You’ll Love

If you love simple, balanced salads like this one, you might also enjoy a few other favorites from my kitchen. Try my Country Chophouse Chicken Salad for something hearty, Bright & Fresh Winter Salad with Bulgur, Delicata Squash, and Pomegranate  when you want something bright and fresh, or Teriyaki Chicken Mandarin Orange Salad for an easy, make-ahead option.

A Fresh Start You Can Stick With

Healthy eating doesn’t have to mean overhauling everything at once. Sometimes, it’s as simple as having a reliable, everyday salad you can come back to again and again.

This Everyday Garden Salad — and the simple formula behind it — is one of those meals for me. I hope it becomes one for you too.

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5-Ingredient Zucchini Ribbon Salad (Ready in 20 Minutes!)

A light and refreshing Mediterranean Zucchini Ribbon Salad made with just 5 ingredients and ready in 20 minutes! Tossed with za’atar vinaigrette, tomatoes, olives, and feta — the perfect healthy side dish.

5-Ingredient Zucchini Ribbon Salad (Ready in 20 Minutes!)

I’m back with another 5-ingredient weeknight wonder — and this one is bringing major fresh and sunny Mediterranean vibes to the table! I'm loving these quick, uncomplicated recipes for my weeknight meals because I'm just too tired to tackle anything complex at the moment.  However, I do want something beautiful and delicious on my plate.

That’s exactly why this Zucchini Ribbon Salad is such a side dish lifesaver. Cutting the zucchini into ribbons feels fancy (but really takes zero extra effort), and the za’atar vinaigrette gives everything a herby, zesty punch. Add juicy cherry tomatoes, salty olives, and creamy feta and serve it alongside some Mediterranean seasoned grilled chicken — and suddenly dinner feels like it came straight from a seaside cafe.

And did I mention that it is a no cook dish?  The zucchini is raw, but not to worry as the thin slices make it tender and the taste is crisp and fresh.  This is a great weeknight-friendly dish that can accompany so many main dishes.   A total win in my book!

Enjoy!

What Ingredients Do I Need?

Just 5 simple ingredients turning into a stunning, fresh salad!

• Zucchini - Tender ribbons make the salad feel elegant — and they soak up every bit of flavor.

• Cherry Tomatoes - A burst of juicy sweetness to balance the savory ingredients.

• Kalamata Olives - Briney + bold — a little goes a long way in adding rich Mediterranean flavor.

• Feta Cheese - Creamy and salty crumbles give this salad its finishing touch.

• Za’atar Vinaigrette - Just olive oil, vinegar, and za’atar — bright, herbaceous, and effortless.

Substitutions & Variations

Sometimes you don’t have exactly what a recipe calls for — or you just want to mix it up a bit! Here are some easy substitutions and fun variations for the Zucchini Ribbon Salad:

Ingredient Swaps

Not everything has to be exactly as listed — these swaps work beautifully:

• Feta Cheese: Don’t have feta? No problem! Goat cheese or shaved Parmesan are both delicious alternatives that still give you that creamy, salty punch.

• Kalamata Olives: If you prefer a milder olive or want a different flavor, try green Castelvetrano olives or even capers. They give the same briny pop without being too bold.

• Vinegar: Out of red wine vinegar? Lemon juice works perfectly and gives the salad an extra bright, fresh flavor.

Flavor Variations

Want to play with textures or make the salad a bit heartier? Here are some easy ideas:

• Protein Boost: Toss in grilled chicken, shrimp, or chickpeas to make it a satisfying main-dish salad. 

• Crunch Factor: Add toasted pine nuts, pistachios, or even sliced almonds for a little extra texture and a nutty flavor. It makes the salad feel even more special.

Kitchen Tips & Notes

Even though this salad is super simple, a few quick tips can help it turn out perfectly every time:

• Slice zucchini ribbons carefully: Use a vegetable peeler or a mandoline for thin, even ribbons. If they’re too thick, they can be a bit tough, and if too thin, they may wilt too quickly.

• Pat zucchini dry if needed: If your zucchini is very watery, lightly pat the ribbons with a paper towel to keep the salad crisp.

• Make the vinaigrette ahead: The za’atar vinaigrette can be whisked together a few hours in advance — just toss the zucchini ribbons right before serving to prevent sogginess.

• Serve fresh: This salad is best eaten within 2 hours of assembly — it’s all about that fresh, crisp zucchini texture.

       Set the Mood       

Want to create a fresh Mediterranean moment at home?

Then let the vibe match the flavors—here’s how to set the mood while you serve up this bright and breezy Zucchini Ribbon Salad.

     5-Ingredient Meal Series     

Looking for quick, flavorful meals that require minimal effort? Here’s the full lineup of 5-Ingredient Meals in this series — each designed to be ready in 20–30 minutes, packed with flavor, and perfect for busy weeknights:

5-Ingredient Steak Salad with Avocado (Ready in 30 Minutes!) - Juicy grilled steak paired with Southwestern-style salad kit, black beans, avocado, and bell peppers.

5-Ingredient Caesar Pasta Salad (Ready in 30 Minutes!) - Mini farfalle pasta tossed with Caesar salad kit, salami, pepperoncini, red onion, and Parmesan-crouton topping.

5-Ingredient Asian-Inspired Kohlrabi & Cabbage Slaw (Ready in 30 Minutes!) - Crisp kohlrabi and cabbage with a zesty chili-peanut dressing, lime, and cilantro — perfect for a refreshing side.

HUNGRY FOR MORE? Subscribe to emails at the top of this page and follow along on Facebook,  and Pinterest for all of the latest updates.

    RECIPE IS DOWN BELOW👇     

Country Chophouse Chicken Salad with Garden-Fresh Buttermilk Dressing

Savor the hearty, fresh flavors of my Country Chophouse Chicken Salad with Garden-Fresh Buttermilk Dressing. Crispy chicken, crisp greens, and a bright, herby dressing make this a comforting, wholesome meal perfect for family dinners or a cozy lunch.

Country Chophouse Chicken Salad with Garden-Fresh Buttermilk Dressing

Step into your kitchen and bring the chophouse restaurant experience home. This Country Chophouse Chicken Salad with Garden-Fresh Buttermilk Dressing takes the hearty, satisfying flavors of a classic steakhouse salad and makes them approachable for your own table. Crispy, golden chicken strips crown a bed of crisp green leaf lettuce, refreshing cucumber, sweet cherry tomatoes, and a sprinkle of sharp cheddar — a perfect combination of textures and flavors that makes every bite feel like a treat.

What truly sets this salad apart is the Garden-Fresh Buttermilk Dressing. Think of it as Ranch’s lighter, brighter cousin: tangy but not heavy, creamy but not cloying, with fresh herbs and a hint of lemon that wake up every ingredient in the salad. Skipping this dressing is simply not an option — it’s the flavor glue that turns a simple mix of greens and chicken into something truly irresistible.

Whether you’re serving a weeknight dinner, entertaining friends, or just craving a wholesome, satisfying meal, this salad delivers. It’s fresh, hearty, and full of personality, with the convenience of easy-to-heat chicken strips and a quick mason jar dressing that feels homemade without the fuss. Once you try it, you’ll understand why this combination of crispy chicken, crisp veggies, and that bright, herby buttermilk dressing belongs in your regular rotation.

What Ingredients Do I Need?

Creating that chophouse magic at home starts with a few simple, wholesome ingredients. Each one brings something special to the table:

For the Salad:

• Crispy Chicken Breast Strips – Golden and savory, these add hearty flavor and satisfying crunch, giving the salad its “main-course” feel. (I buy the Tyson fully cooked crispy chicken breast strips)

• Green Leaf Lettuce – Soft yet crisp, this lettuce provides a fresh, slightly sweet base that pairs perfectly with the tangy dressing.

• Coleslaw Mix – Adds texture and extra crunch while saving you chopping time — think of it as your secret shortcut to more layers of flavor.

• Cherry Tomatoes – Bursting with sweetness and color, they brighten up every bite and balance the savory notes.

• English Cucumber – Cool and refreshing, this adds a clean, crisp bite that keeps the salad light and balanced.

• Cheddar Cheese – A touch of sharpness and creaminess that ties everything together with that classic chophouse edge.

For the Buttermilk Dressing:

• Whole Buttermilk – Light, tangy, and fresh; the heart of this dressing and what gives it that signature flavor.

• Mayonnaise – Adds creaminess and helps the dressing cling perfectly to the crisp greens.

• Fresh Chives – Mild and oniony, they bring a gentle sharpness that brightens the flavor.

• Fresh Dill – Earthy and aromatic, giving the dressing a fresh-from-the-garden taste.

• Lemon Zest & Juice – Adds brightness and just the right amount of tang to lift the creamy base.

• Dijon Mustard – Subtle and savory, it ties all the flavors together with a little zip.

Substitutions and Variations

Want to make this salad your own? Here are a few ways to switch things up without losing that chophouse charm:

Simple Substitutions

• Lettuce: Swap green leaf for romaine or butter lettuce if that’s what you have on hand.

• Cheese: Try Monterey Jack or crumbled feta for a fresh twist.

• Chicken: Use grilled chicken breast or rotisserie chicken if you prefer a lighter option.

• Dressing: If you’re out of buttermilk, mix equal parts milk and plain Greek yogurt or sour cream for a similar tang.

Variation 1 – BBQ Ranchhouse Salad

Toss the chicken strips in a drizzle of barbecue sauce before adding them to the salad, and sprinkle on a few crunchy fried onions. The smoky-sweet flavor turns it into a down-home BBQ favorite.

Variation 2 – Farmstand Fresh Garden Salad

Skip the chicken and add extra veggies — roasted corn, bell peppers, or sliced radish — and top with sunflower seeds for a bright, veggie-packed option that feels straight from the garden.

Kitchen Tips and Notes

• Use a Mason Jar for the Dressing: It’s quick, easy, and gives you that perfect country presentation. Plus, shaking blends everything beautifully without dirtying extra dishes.

• Chill Before Serving: If you have time, refrigerate the dressing for 15–20 minutes while you prepare the rest of the salad. The herbs bloom and the flavors meld for a richer taste.

• Crisp Up the Chicken: For extra crunch, reheat the chicken strips in the oven or air fryer instead of the microwave.

• Make It Ahead: Prep the veggies and dressing in advance, then assemble just before serving. It’s ideal for meal prep or quick lunches.

• Serve with Style: Present the dressing in a small mason jar and serve it tableside — it adds that cozy, homemade touch that makes every meal feel special.

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    RECIPE IS DOWN BELOW👇     

Crisp Apple & Arugula Farro Salad with Toasted Walnuts & Feta

This easy fall farro salad combines crisp apples, peppery arugula, creamy feta, and toasted walnuts in a honey-Dijon dressing. A hearty yet refreshing dish that’s perfect for cozy autumn meals. 

Crisp Apple & Arugula Farro Salad with Toasted Walnuts & Feta

The leaves are just starting to fall and the nights have cooled down.  This is the time when I find myself craving salads that feel just a little heartier—something fresh yet grounding, nourishing but not heavy. That’s exactly where this Crisp Apple & Arugula Farro Salad with Toasted Walnuts & Feta shines.

Every forkful is a celebration of fall: sweet-tart apples with that irresistible crunch, nutty farro with its warm, earthy bite, and peppery arugula to keep things bright. Creamy crumbles of feta melt into the honey-Dijon dressing, while toasted walnuts add the kind of cozy, satisfying crunch that makes this salad more than just a side—it’s a seasonal star.

Best of all, this recipe is wonderfully simple. Just cook the farro, whisk up the dressing, and toss everything together. It’s the kind of easy fall salad you’ll turn to again and again—whether you’re looking for a wholesome weeknight dinner, a crowd-pleasing holiday side, or a way to bring the best flavors of the season right to your table.

Enjoy!

What Ingredients Do I Need?

Here’s everything that brings this fall salad to life:

• Farro – A nutty, chewy whole grain that gives the salad its hearty base.

• Vegetable broth – Infuses the farro with savory depth as it cooks.

• Bay leaf – A subtle aromatic that adds warmth to the grain’s flavor.

• Extra virgin olive oil – Smooth and fruity, the foundation for the dressing.

• Apple cider vinegar – Bright, tangy, and perfectly autumnal.

• Dijon mustard – Adds sharpness and helps emulsify the vinaigrette.

• Honey – A touch of natural sweetness that balances the tart flavors.

• Kosher salt & black pepper – Simple seasoning to bring everything together.

• Apple – Crisp, tart, and refreshing—an instant fall favorite.

• Arugula – Peppery greens that keep the salad lively and fresh.

• Feta cheese – Creamy, tangy crumbles that melt into the dressing.

• Toasted walnuts – Nutty crunch that adds coziness and texture.

• Fresh basil – Herbaceous brightness to lift the flavors.

• Fresh parsley – Earthy and fresh, rounding out the herb mix.

Substitutions and Variations

This salad is flexible—swap or add as you like!

• Grain swap: Use quinoa, brown rice, or barley in place of farro.

• Cheese options: Goat cheese or shaved parmesan work beautifully.

• Nut choices: Pecans or almonds can replace walnuts for a different crunch.

• Apple variety: Try Honeycrisp for sweetness or Granny Smith for extra tartness.

• Leafy greens: Spinach or mixed greens can stand in for arugula.

Kitchen Tips and Notes

A few quick tricks to make this salad shine:

• Toast your walnuts in a dry skillet for 3–4 minutes to boost flavor.
• Let the farro cool slightly before tossing—this keeps greens crisp, or make the farro earlier in the day.  Great for using leftover cooked farro!

• Make the dressing in advance; it stores well in the fridge for up to 3 days.

• For extra flavor, cook farro in broth with a garlic clove or onion.

• Serving temperature; warm for comfort or chilled for a refreshing side dish.

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    RECIPE IS DOWN BELOW👇