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Colorful and packed with crunch this green mix is my answer for quick dinners and it looks great at gatherings too. Juicy tomatoes creamy avocado and crisp cucumber team up on a bed of cool leafy greens all brought together with zingy lemon and smooth olive oil. Whether you want something speedy and nourishing on the side or a light bite that won't get boring this one fits the bill.
The first night I threw this together I barely had time before friends came over and couldn't believe how many folks asked for seconds. My own kids who usually skip salad beg for it anytime they see avocados around.
Vibrant Ingredients
- Fresh lemon juice: adds a bright tang to the dressing grab a lemon that's just soft to the touch
- Extra virgin olive oil: coats everything with a rich gentle flavor if you can get cold-pressed with a fruity smell that's the best
- Red onion: thin purple slices bring a little bite and a splash of color make sure they're sharp and crisp not mushy
- Avocado: brings creamy chunks and good fats look for just-ripe ones with stems still attached for best quality
- Cherry tomatoes: little pops of juice and tang pick ones that look firm and bright
- Cucumber: crunchy with fresh flavor choose firm, spotless cucumbers for best results
- Mixed greens: think of fresh spinach, arugula, or romaine skip any that look wilted—the combo gives lots of texture
Simple How-To
- Toss it All Together
- Gently mix everything right before serving using your hands or tongs so every bit gets a little dressing but the greens don't get weighed down
- Pour on the Dressing
- Drizzle the lemony olive oil blend over your bowl right before eating for the freshest taste
- Whip Up Your Dressing
- Grab a small bowl and whisk olive oil with lemon juice till it looks a bit creamy and smooth
- Slice and Add the Veggies
- Throw in chopped avocado, halved tomatoes, sliced onions, and cucumber so every scoop looks bright and has a mix
- Get Your Greens Ready
- After drying your greens, put them in your biggest bowl so they're easy to toss without smashing them
- Rinse All Your Produce
- Wash mixed greens, tomatoes, cucumber, and any other fresh bits well under cool water then let them dry on a towel to get rid of grit
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Avocado is always my top pick in this bowl. Every bite is extra creamy because of it. My kids think it's awesome to eat out of big salads bowls during movie nights—it vanishes faster than I expect every time.
Keeping It Fresh
If you don’t eat it all in one go, put the veggies and dressing in separate sealed containers in the fridge. The greens and veggies should stay good for two days. If your avocado browns quickly, a splash more lemon juice or leaving in the pit can slow it down.
Easy Swaps
No mixed greens? Try baby kale or even soft butter lettuce if that's what you have. Grape or diced regular tomatoes will totally work if you're out of cherry tomatoes. Want it a little tangier? Swap a splash of red wine vinegar for some of the lemon juice.
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Ways to Serve
It goes great with grilled chicken, baked salmon, or a scoop of cooked quinoa if you want extra protein. Got folks coming over? Add some toasted seeds or a bit of feta on top. Sometimes I throw crispy chickpeas on mine for a nice crunch.
Everyday Origins
You’ll see simple green salads like this all over—from Mediterranean tables to tiny French cafes. Olive oil and lemon dressings go way back in history and never feel old. I always find myself making this when I want something that’s both cozy and bright.
Recipe FAQs
- → Which greens are tasty for this bowl?
Try tossing in spinach, arugula, and romaine for lots of flavor and crunch. Swap in butter lettuce or kale if that's more your style—anything leafy works here.
- → How can I stop avocado from turning brown?
Mix your chopped avocado with a squeeze of lemon juice before it joins the salad. That keeps it looking nice and green a lot longer.
- → Is it possible to prep this ahead?
Go ahead and slice the veggies or make the dressing ahead of time. Just wait to toss everything together until you’re ready to eat, so it stays crisp.
- → What other dressings should I try?
Olive oil with lemon juice is a winner, but you can go with mustard vinaigrette or some balsamic for a bit more zip.
- → What protein could fill this out?
If you want something stronger, add slices of boiled egg, roasted chickpeas, or put in some grilled chicken on top to keep you full longer.