Bright, fresh, and effortlessly elegant, this Vegan Classic Lettuce Salad with Homemade Vinaigrette is a quick, wholesome addition to any meal. Featuring crisp romaine lettuce, juicy cherry tomatoes, crunchy cucumber, vibrant shredded carrot, and tangy red onion, this salad delivers irresistible textures and fresh garden flavors in every bite. The star of the dish is the homemade vinaigrette—crafted with extra virgin olive oil, balsamic vinegar, Dijon mustard, and a touch of maple syrup—that coats the veggies in a balanced, tangy-sweet finish. Ready in just 15 minutes, this nutrient-packed salad is perfect as a starter, side dish, or even a light lunch option. Plus, it's completely vegan, making it a delightful choice for plant-based diets or when you're craving something fresh and healthy!
Start by preparing the vegetables. Rinse the romaine lettuce under cold water, then pat it dry with a clean kitchen towel or use a salad spinner. Chop the lettuce into bite-sized pieces and place them into a large salad bowl.
Wash the cherry tomatoes and cut them in half. Peel the cucumber, cut it in half lengthwise, and slice it into thin half-moons. Thinly slice the red onion. Peel the carrot, then use a grater to shred it. Add all these vegetables to the bowl with the lettuce.
Next, prepare the vinaigrette. In a small mixing bowl, combine the olive oil, balsamic vinegar, Dijon mustard, and maple syrup. Whisk the mixture until it is emulsified and well-blended. Season with salt and black pepper, then whisk again to incorporate.
Pour the vinaigrette over the salad just before serving. Toss the salad gently to ensure the vegetables are evenly coated with the dressing.
Serve immediately as a fresh starter or a light meal.
Calories |
719 | ||
|---|---|---|---|
% Daily Value* |
|||
| Total Fat | 58.5 g | 75% | |
| Saturated Fat | 8.2 g | 41% | |
| Polyunsaturated Fat | 0.5 g | ||
| Cholesterol | 0 mg | 0% | |
| Sodium | 1527 mg | 66% | |
| Total Carbohydrate | 48.8 g | 18% | |
| Dietary Fiber | 13.5 g | 48% | |
| Total Sugars | 24.7 g | ||
| Protein | 11.6 g | 23% | |
| Vitamin D | 0.0 mcg | 0% | |
| Calcium | 303 mg | 23% | |
| Iron | 6.9 mg | 38% | |
| Potassium | 2008 mg | 43% | |
*The % Daily Value tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.