I’m not a salad person, but this changed me. It’s fresh, tangy, and totally addictive. Full recipe Recipe in the first (C.O.M.M.E.N.T)

This isn’t just another salad—it’s the kind that completely changes how you think about salads. Bright, bold, and layered with flavor and texture, this dish proves that simple ingredients can come together to create something truly crave-worthy. Whether served as a vibrant side or enjoyed as a light yet satisfying main, this salad delivers freshness, balance, and personality in every bite.

### Ingredients

**For the Salad**

* Mixed greens (arugula, spinach, or baby kale) – 4 cups
* Cucumber, thinly sliced – 1 large
* Red bell pepper, diced – 1
* Red onion, finely chopped – 1 small
* Cherry tomatoes, halved – 1 cup
* Feta cheese, crumbled (or goat cheese for a creamier option) – ½ cup
* Toasted almonds or walnuts (optional, for crunch) – ½ cup
* Dried cranberries or cherries (optional, for sweetness) – ¼ cup

**For the Tangy Dressing**

* Extra-virgin olive oil – ¼ cup
* Fresh lemon juice – 2 tbsp
* Apple cider vinegar (or red wine vinegar) – 1 tbsp
* Honey (or maple syrup for a vegan option) – 1 tsp
* Garlic, minced (or ½ tsp garlic powder) – 1 clove
* Salt and black pepper – to taste
* Red pepper flakes (optional) – a pinch

### Instructions

Start by washing and thoroughly drying the mixed greens, then place them in a large serving bowl. Prepare the vegetables by slicing the cucumber, dicing the bell pepper, finely chopping the red onion, and halving the cherry tomatoes. Add everything to the bowl, then sprinkle the feta cheese on top. If using, add the toasted nuts and dried fruit for extra texture and contrast.

To make the dressing, combine olive oil, lemon juice, vinegar, honey, garlic, salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes in a small bowl or jar. Whisk or shake until smooth and emulsified, adjusting flavors to taste.

Just before serving, drizzle about half the dressing over the salad and gently toss. Add more dressing as needed and let the salad sit for 5–10 minutes so the flavors meld.

### Why You’ll Love It

This salad shines with a perfect balance of tangy, salty, sweet, and savory notes. Crunchy nuts, fresh vegetables, and creamy cheese make every bite satisfying. It’s endlessly customizable—add grilled chicken, shrimp, tofu, or quinoa to turn it into a complete meal. Simple, fresh, and unforgettable, this is a salad you’ll come back to again and again.