Romaine Salad with Cherry Tomatoes and Cucumbers is a crisp, refreshing dish that celebrates simplicity and freshness. Crunchy romaine lettuce forms the base, while juicy cherry tomatoes and cool, crisp cucumbers add color, texture, and natural sweetness. Tossed with a light vinaigrette, this salad is a perfect example of how a few fresh ingredients can come together to create something satisfying and delicious.
This salad works beautifully as a side dish for almost any meal, from grilled meats to pasta and seafood. It’s quick to prepare, light yet flavorful, and ideal for everyday lunches, family dinners, or warm-weather gatherings.
Why I Love This Recipe
I love this recipe because it proves that simple ingredients can create something truly satisfying. The crisp crunch of fresh romaine, the juicy burst of cherry tomatoes, and the cool freshness of cucumbers come together in a way that feels light, clean, and refreshing. It’s the kind of dish that never feels heavy, yet always leaves you feeling nourished and energized.
Why This Is a Must-Try Dish
- Fresh, crisp, and hydrating
- Quick and easy to prepare
- Pairs well with almost any main dish
- Naturally low-calorie and nutritious
- Customizable with endless add-ins
This salad proves that simple food can still be incredibly enjoyable.
Recipe Overview
- Course: Salad / Side Dish
- Cuisine: American / Mediterranean-Inspired
- Preparation Time: 15 minutes
- Cooking Time: None
- Total Time: 15 minutes
- Servings: 4 servings
- Calories: Approximately 150 calories per serving
Ingredients
For the Salad
- 2 large romaine hearts, chopped
- 1½ cups cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 large cucumber, sliced or chopped
- ¼ cup thinly sliced red onion (optional)
For the Dressing
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- 1½ tablespoons red wine vinegar or lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- ½ teaspoon honey or sugar
- Salt, to taste
- Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
Cooking Directions
- Prepare vegetables
- Mix dressing
- Toss salad
- Serve fresh
Step-by-Step Preparation Method
Step 1: Prepare the Vegetables
Wash and dry the romaine lettuce thoroughly. Chop into bite-sized pieces. Halve the cherry tomatoes and slice the cucumber.
Step 2: Make the Dressing
In a small bowl or jar, whisk together olive oil, vinegar or lemon juice, Dijon mustard, honey, salt, and pepper until well combined.
Step 3: Assemble the Salad
Place romaine, tomatoes, cucumber, and red onion (if using) into a large salad bowl.
Step 4: Dress the Salad
Drizzle dressing over the salad and toss gently until evenly coated.
Step 5: Serve
Serve immediately for maximum crispness and flavor.
How to Serve
- Serve alongside grilled chicken, steak, or fish
- Pair with pasta dishes or soups
- Top with croutons or shaved Parmesan
- Enjoy as a light lunch with bread
- Serve as a starter for dinner
Recipe Tips
- Dry lettuce completely to prevent watery salad
- Add dressing just before serving
- Slice vegetables evenly for better texture
- Chill ingredients for extra crispness
- Adjust dressing to taste
Variations
Greek-Style Romaine Salad
Add feta cheese and olives with oregano seasoning.
Protein-Packed Salad
Top with grilled chicken, shrimp, or chickpeas.
Creamy Dressing Version
Use ranch or Caesar dressing instead of vinaigrette.
Avocado Romaine Salad
Add diced avocado for creaminess.
Herb-Forward Salad
Add fresh basil, parsley, or dill.
Freezing and Storage
Storage
- Store undressed salad in the refrigerator for 1–2 days
- Store dressing separately for up to 5 days
Freezing
- Freezing is not recommended due to fresh vegetables
Special Equipment Needed
- Salad spinner
- Large salad bowl
- Cutting board and knife
- Small bowl or jar for dressing
Conclusion
Romaine Salad with Cherry Tomatoes and Cucumbers is a simple yet refreshing dish that delivers crisp texture and bright flavor in every bite. Easy to prepare and endlessly adaptable, it’s the perfect everyday salad that complements any meal. Whether served as a side or enjoyed on its own, this salad proves that fresh ingredients and simple preparation are all you need for a delicious result.
Romaine Salad with Cherry Tomatoes and Cucumbers
Description
I love this recipe because it proves that simple ingredients can create something truly satisfying. The crisp crunch of fresh romaine, the juicy burst of cherry tomatoes, and the cool freshness of cucumbers come together in a way that feels light, clean, and refreshing. It’s the kind of dish that never feels heavy, yet always leaves you feeling nourished and energized.
Ingredients
For the Salad
For the Dressing
Instructions
-
Prepare the Vegetables : Wash and dry the romaine lettuce thoroughly. Chop into bite-sized pieces. Halve the cherry tomatoes and slice the cucumber.
-
Make the Dressing : In a small bowl or jar, whisk together olive oil, vinegar or lemon juice, Dijon mustard, honey, salt, and pepper until well combined.
-
Assemble the Salad : Place romaine, tomatoes, cucumber, and red onion (if using) into a large salad bowl.
-
Dress the Salad : Drizzle dressing over the salad and toss gently until evenly coated.
-
Serve : Serve immediately for maximum crispness and flavor.
