Casa Salad is a fresh and vibrant dish that brings a burst of flavor to any meal. Originating from Mediterranean-inspired kitchens, this salad combines crisp vegetables with a tangy dressing that’s both light and satisfying. It’s perfect for those looking to enjoy a healthy yet delicious side or a quick lunch.
We love how easy it is to customize this recipe with whatever fresh produce you have on hand. The balance of textures and bright flavors makes Casa Salad a crowd-pleaser that pairs well with grilled meats or stands strong on its own. Let’s dive into this simple recipe that’s sure to become a staple in our kitchens.
Ingredients
To craft the perfect Casa Salad, gathering fresh and vibrant ingredients is key. Below we detail everything needed to create the refreshing base, tangy dressing, and optional toppings to customize your salad to taste.
Fresh Vegetables
We start with a selection of crisp vegetables that form the heart of our Casa Salad. These fresh ingredients provide a delightful crunch and garden-fresh flavor.
- Romaine lettuce — 4 cups, chopped
- Cherry tomatoes — 1 cup, halved
- Cucumber — 1 medium, seeded and diced
- Red onion — ¼ cup, thinly sliced
- Bell pepper (red or yellow) — ½ cup, diced
- Kalamata olives — ¼ cup, pitted and sliced
Dressing Ingredients
The dressing blends zesty and herby notes, enhancing the vegetables without overpowering them. We recommend these precise measurements for a perfectly balanced vinaigrette.
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Extra virgin olive oil | ⅓ cup |
| Fresh lemon juice | 3 tablespoons |
| Red wine vinegar | 1 tablespoon |
| Garlic | 1 clove, minced |
| Dijon mustard | 1 teaspoon |
| Dried oregano | ½ teaspoon |
| Salt | ½ teaspoon |
| Freshly ground black pepper | ¼ teaspoon |
Optional Add-Ins
To elevate our Casa Salad further, we can add a few optional ingredients. These choices add texture, richness, or a boost of protein to customize according to preference.
- Feta cheese — ½ cup, crumbled
- Grilled chicken breast — 1 cup, sliced
- Toasted pine nuts — 2 tablespoons
- Fresh basil or parsley — 2 tablespoons, chopped
- Avocado — ½, diced
Using these ingredients, we assemble a salad that is fresh, flavorful, and flexible for any occasion.
Equipment Needed
To prepare our vibrant Casa Salad, having the right equipment on hand makes the process smooth and efficient. Here’s what we need to assemble this fresh and flavorful dish:
- Cutting Board
A sturdy cutting board provides a safe surface to chop the romaine lettuce, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, bell pepper, and red onion with precision.
- Chef’s Knife
Use a sharp, high-quality chef’s knife for crisp, clean cuts. This ensures vegetables retain their texture and color.
- Mixing Bowl (Large)
We combine all salad ingredients in a large mixing bowl to toss evenly without spilling.
- Small Bowl or Jar
For preparing the tangy vinaigrette, use a small bowl or a jar with a lid to whisk or shake the dressing ingredients thoroughly.
- Whisk or Fork
A whisk or fork helps emulsify the dressing components into a smooth, well-blended vinaigrette.
- Measuring Spoons & Cups
Accurate measurements of olive oil, lemon juice, vinegar, and seasonings keep the dressing balanced and flavorful.
- Salad Spinner (Optional)
To dry rinsed lettuce leaves thoroughly, a salad spinner is handy. Dry leaves help the dressing cling better.
- Serving Bowl & Utensils
Present the Casa Salad beautifully in a wide serving bowl with salad tongs for easy tossing and serving.
| Equipment | Purpose |
|---|---|
| Cutting Board | Chopping vegetables precisely |
| Chef’s Knife | Crisp, clean vegetable cuts |
| Large Mixing Bowl | Tossing salad ingredients evenly |
| Small Bowl or Jar | Mixing vinaigrette ingredients |
| Whisk or Fork | Emulsifying dressing |
| Measuring Spoons & Cups | Accurate ingredient measurement |
| Salad Spinner (Optional) | Draining and drying lettuce leaves |
| Serving Bowl & Utensils | Elegant plating and serving |
“Having the right equipment turns salad preparation into an enjoyable, seamless experience.“
Prep Work
Before assembling our vibrant Casa Salad, let’s focus on the essential preparation steps that ensure every ingredient shines with freshness and flavor.
Washing and Chopping Vegetables
We begin by thoroughly rinsing all fresh produce under cold running water to remove any dirt or residues. Using a sturdy cutting board and a sharp chef’s knife, we proceed to prep the vegetables with care:
- Romaine lettuce: Tear the leaves into bite-sized pieces. For crispness, dry them completely using a salad spinner or clean kitchen towel.
- Cherry tomatoes: Halve each tomato to release their sweet, juicy interior.
- Cucumber: Peel if preferred. Slice into thin rounds or half-moons for a refreshing crunch.
- Red onion: Peel and cut into thin slices or half rings to balance the salad’s sweetness with a mild sharpness.
- Bell pepper: Remove seeds and membranes. Dice finely or slice into thin strips depending on your texture preference.
- Kalamata olives: Slice or leave whole according to taste.
The chopping process allows us to layer textural contrast and color vibrancy, forming the base of our Casa Salad.
Preparing the Dressing
Next, we craft the tangy vinaigrette that brings this salad to life. Precise measurements guarantee a balanced zing and smooth consistency:
| Ingredient | Measurement |
|---|---|
| Extra virgin olive oil | 1/4 cup (60 ml) |
| Fresh lemon juice | 2 tablespoons (30 ml) |
| Red wine vinegar | 1 tablespoon (15 ml) |
| Garlic (minced) | 1 clove |
| Dijon mustard | 1 teaspoon |
| Dried oregano | 1/2 teaspoon |
| Salt | 1/2 teaspoon |
| Black pepper (freshly ground) | 1/4 teaspoon |
We place all ingredients in a small bowl or jar, then whisk vigorously or shake well to emulsify the dressing. The emulsification unites the oil and acid, creating a silky, tangy finish that elevates the Casa Salad.
“A well-made dressing is the heart of a salad,” and this vinaigrette perfectly complements our fresh vegetables by delivering a bright and robust flavor punch.
With these steps mastered, we’re set to bring all components together in a harmonious, delicious Casa Salad.
Directions
Follow these steps carefully to bring together the vibrant Casa Salad that bursts with fresh flavors and perfect balance. Each stage ensures every ingredient complements the others for a truly satisfying meal.
Assembling the Salad
- Begin by placing the prepared romaine lettuce in a large mixing bowl.
- Add the halved cherry tomatoes, sliced cucumber, thinly sliced red onion, and diced bell pepper.
- Incorporate the Kalamata olives last for bursts of briny flavor throughout the salad.
- If using optional add-ins like crumbled feta cheese, toasted pine nuts, or sliced avocado, fold them in gently to retain their texture.
“Layering the salad ingredients evenly ensures every bite offers a harmonious blend of crunch, tang, and creaminess.”
Tossing the Salad
- Drizzle the freshly whisked vinaigrette evenly over the salad.
- Using two large salad spoons or clean hands, toss the salad gently but thoroughly to coat every piece of vegetable with dressing.
- Tossing just before serving preserves the crispness of the vegetables while infusing vibrant flavor.
| Key Tossing Tips | Reason |
|---|---|
| Toss gently | Avoid bruising delicate ingredients |
| Use large utensils | Distribute dressing evenly without crushing |
| Toss just before serving | Maintain vegetable crunch and freshness |
Serving Suggestions
Serve the Casa Salad immediately to enjoy its full freshness and flavor. It pairs beautifully with:
- Grilled chicken breast or fish for a complete protein meal.
- Crusty artisan bread to soak up any remaining vinaigrette.
- Lightly chilled white wine or sparkling water with lemon for a refreshing accompaniment.
For an elegant presentation, arrange the salad on a platter and garnish with fresh herbs like parsley or basil. This simple yet flavorful salad shines as a main or side dish any day of the week.
Make-Ahead Tips
Preparing the Casa Salad in advance allows us to enjoy this vibrant dish anytime with minimal effort while maintaining its fresh flavors and appealing textures. Here are our top make-ahead strategies to keep every ingredient crisp and the vinaigrette bright:
Store Ingredients Separately
- Wash and dry all vegetables completely before storing. Use a salad spinner for optimal dryness.
- Keep romaine lettuce, chopped vegetables, and olives in separate airtight containers or resealable bags.
- Store the vinaigrette dressing in a small jar or container with a tight lid, shaken well before use.
Timing for Optimal Freshness
| Preparation Step | Storage Duration | Storage Tips |
|---|---|---|
| Chopped vegetables | Up to 2 days | Keep chilled and avoid moisture buildup |
| Romaine lettuce (washed/dried) | Up to 1 day | Wrap in paper towels inside the container |
| Vinaigrette dressing | Up to 3 days | Shake well before serving |
Assemble Just Before Serving
- Combine all vegetables in a large bowl just prior to serving.
- Pour the vinaigrette over the salad and toss gently to prevent wilting.
- Add delicate optional add-ins like feta cheese or avocado last to preserve texture and flavor.
Pro Tips for Make-Ahead Success
- “Separating wet ingredients like olives and dressing ensures the salad remains crisp and vibrant.”
- Use airtight containers to minimize air exposure and prevent spoiling.
- If we want to prepare more than two days ahead, freeze none of the salad components; fresh is best.
By following these make-ahead tips we guarantee our Casa Salad stays fresh, flavorful, and ready to impress whenever hunger strikes.
Conclusion
Casa Salad is more than just a dish—it’s a fresh and adaptable addition to any meal. With its vibrant ingredients and zesty dressing, it brings a burst of Mediterranean flavor that’s easy to prepare and customize.
Whether we’re serving it alongside grilled favorites or enjoying it on its own, Casa Salad fits seamlessly into our busy lives. Its make-ahead options make healthy eating convenient without sacrificing taste or texture.
By keeping a few simple tips in mind, we can ensure every bowl is crisp, colorful, and satisfying. Let’s make Casa Salad a go-to recipe that brightens our table and nourishes our bodies.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Casa Salad?
Casa Salad is a fresh, Mediterranean-inspired dish featuring crisp vegetables like romaine lettuce, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, and Kalamata olives, combined with a tangy vinaigrette. It’s healthy, flavorful, and easy to customize.
What ingredients are needed for Casa Salad?
Key ingredients include romaine lettuce, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, red onion, bell pepper, Kalamata olives, and a vinaigrette made with olive oil, lemon juice, red wine vinegar, garlic, Dijon mustard, oregano, salt, and pepper.
Can Casa Salad be customized?
Yes, you can add feta cheese, grilled chicken, toasted pine nuts, fresh herbs, or avocado to personalize the salad to your taste.
What equipment is essential for making Casa Salad?
A sturdy cutting board, a sharp chef’s knife, and mixing bowls are important to prepare and combine ingredients efficiently.
How should I prepare the vegetables for Casa Salad?
Wash all vegetables thoroughly, then chop them evenly to enhance texture, color, and ease of eating.
How do you make the vinaigrette for Casa Salad?
Whisk together extra virgin olive oil, fresh lemon juice, red wine vinegar, garlic, Dijon mustard, dried oregano, salt, and pepper until emulsified for a balanced, flavorful dressing.
How should Casa Salad be assembled?
Layer the chopped vegetables and olives, drizzle with vinaigrette, then toss gently to keep the salad crisp and well mixed.
When is the best time to serve Casa Salad?
Serve Casa Salad immediately after assembling for peak freshness and flavor.
Can Casa Salad be stored for later?
Yes, but store chopped vegetables, lettuce, and dressing separately in airtight containers. Assemble the salad just before serving to maintain freshness and texture.
What are good serving suggestions for Casa Salad?
Enjoy Casa Salad on its own or paired with grilled meats, crusty bread, or fresh herbs for enhanced flavor.