Easy Garden Salad Recipe

This Easy Garden Salad recipe is a classic, refreshing dish made with crisp iceberg lettuce, juicy cherry tomatoes, crunchy bacon, and hard-boiled eggs, all tossed in a creamy homemade buttermilk ranch dressing. Perfect as a healthy side salad, light lunch, or a complement to any main course, this quick and easy salad is packed with flavor and texture. Whether you’re looking for a simple salad recipe for dinner, meal prep, or summer BBQs, this fresh and vibrant dish is a must-try!

This Easy Garden Salad is a fresh and flavorful side dish that pairs perfectly with any meal. Made with crisp iceberg lettuce, juicy cherry tomatoes, crunchy bacon, and creamy hard-boiled eggs, this salad is simple to prepare yet packed with delicious textures and flavors. Topped with homemade buttermilk ranch dressing, it’s a classic favorite for any occasion!

---

Ingredients

• 1 medium head iceberg lettuce, cored and chopped
• 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
• 4 slices cooked bacon, chopped
• 2 hard-boiled eggs, diced
• ½ cup croutons
• ¼ medium red onion, thinly sliced into half-rings (or ¼ cup chopped chives)
• 1 recipe Buttermilk Ranch Dressing

---

Instructions

1. Assemble the Salad:
   • In a large mixing bowl, add the chopped iceberg lettuce as the base.
2. Add the Toppings:
   • Evenly scatter the cherry tomatoes, cooked bacon, diced eggs, croutons, and red onion (or chives) over the lettuce.
3. Dress and Serve:
   • Just before serving, drizzle with homemade buttermilk ranch dressing and toss gently to combine.
   • Serve immediately and enjoy!

---

Tips

• For the freshest salad, chop the ingredients just before serving.
• To keep the salad crisp, store the lettuce separately and add toppings right before eating.
• Want extra crunch? Add toasted nuts or seeds like sunflower or almonds.
• Make it a meal by adding grilled chicken, shrimp, or sliced steak.

---

Variations and Substitutions

• Lettuce Options: Swap iceberg for romaine, mixed greens, or butter lettuce for a different texture.
• Protein Variations: Replace bacon with grilled chicken, turkey bacon, or chickpeas for a vegetarian version.
• Dressing Choices: Not a fan of ranch? Try balsamic vinaigrette, blue cheese, or honey mustard dressing.
• Add More Veggies: Toss in cucumbers, bell peppers, or shredded carrots for extra nutrients.

---

FAQs

Can I make this salad ahead of time?
Yes! Prep all the ingredients and store them separately. Assemble and dress the salad just before serving to keep it fresh.

What’s the best way to store leftovers?
If undressed, store the salad in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. Once dressed, it’s best enjoyed immediately.

Can I use store-bought dressing?
Absolutely! While homemade buttermilk ranch adds extra flavor, any store-bought dressing works just as well.

---

Serving Suggestions

• Serve this garden salad as a refreshing side dish with grilled chicken, steak, or pasta dishes.
• Pair it with a bowl of soup or a sandwich for a light, satisfying lunch.
• Enjoy it as a starter for holiday dinners or BBQ gatherings.

---

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick & Easy – Takes just 10 minutes to prepare!
• Customizable – Swap out ingredients to fit your taste.
• Perfect for Any Meal – Works as a side dish, appetizer, or main course.
• Crisp, Fresh & Flavorful – A satisfying mix of textures and flavors in every bite.

This Easy Garden Salad is a must-have in your recipe collection—simple, delicious, and perfect for any occasion! 🥗