Lemon Salad: The BEST Easy Recipe You’ll Ever Make

December 12, 2025

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Lemon salad, a vibrant burst of sunshine on a plate! This recipe isn't just a meal; it's a memory of my grandmother's garden, where lemon trees stood sentinel over rows of herbs and vegetables. The first bite always whisks me back to those warm summer days. This lemon salad is simple, fresh, and utterly delightful. I can't wait to share this family staple with you.

Why You Will Love This Lemon Salad Recipe

This lemon salad recipe is all about bringing a little bit of joy to your day. It’s quick, easy, and requires minimal cooking. Perfect for those busy weeknights when you crave something healthy and flavorful. Plus, the bright lemon dressing elevates simple greens into something truly special. It’s light enough for lunch, and also makes a perfect side dish for grilled chicken or fish. Think of it as instant sunshine on your plate! It is also a great start to your meal before trying our delicious Hamachi Crudo.

I often find myself making this salad when I need a pick me up. The zesty lemon awakens the senses and adds a bright touch to any meal. It’s also incredibly versatile and you can add any proteins that you enjoy. Feel free to experiment and make it your own.

Ingredients Needed for This Lemon Salad Recipe

Here are the fresh and simple ingredients needed to make this vibrant salad.

For the Salad:

5 ounces mixed greens, washed and dried
1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
1/2 cup cucumber, thinly sliced
1/4 cup red onion, thinly sliced
1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese

For the Lemon Vinaigrette:

1/4 cup fresh lemon juice
1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil
1 tablespoon honey or maple syrup
1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon black pepper

How to Make This Lemon Salad Recipe

Follow these simple steps to create this refreshing lemon salad:

In a small bowl, whisk together the lemon juice, olive oil, honey (or maple syrup), Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper until well combined. The dressing should be emulsified and slightly thicker. Taste and adjust seasonings if needed.
In a large bowl, combine the mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, cucumber and red onion.
Pour the lemon vinaigrette over the salad. Gently toss to coat all the ingredients evenly. You can add more or less vinaigrette depending on your preference.
Sprinkle the crumbled feta cheese over the top of the salad.
Serve the lemon salad immediately for the best flavor and texture.
Enjoy this refreshing salad on its own or as a side dish. If you are counting Macros, this is one of the best salads for hitting those targets. Or maybe something more filling like our Kardashian Salad Easy Steps.
For an extra burst of flavour, add some fresh herbs. Basil or mint work wonders.

How to Serve This Lemon Salad Recipe

This salad is incredibly versatile. You can serve it as a light lunch, or pair it with grilled chicken, fish, or tofu for a complete meal. The bright flavors also make it a great accompaniment to heavier dishes.

Consider adding a sprinkle of toasted nuts or seeds for added crunch and nutritional value. Almonds, pecans, or sunflower seeds work particularly well. For a more substantial salad, add grilled shrimp or chickpeas.

Plating-wise, arrange the salad artfully on a chilled plate. The cool temperatures will help keep the greens crisp and vibrant.

How to Store This Lemon Salad Recipe

Ideally, lemon salad is best served immediately to prevent the greens from wilting. However, here are some tips for storing it if needed:

Refrigeration: If you need to store the salad, keep the dressing separate from the greens. Store the dressed salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. Be aware that the greens may become slightly wilted and the flavors may meld together more over time.
Freezing: Freezing this salad is not recommended, as the greens will become soggy and lose their texture when thawed.
Reheating: This salad is best served cold, so reheating is not necessary.

Tips to Make This Lemon Salad Recipe

Here are some tips to ensure your lemon salad is a success:

Ingredient Swaps: Feel free to substitute the feta cheese with goat cheese for a tangier flavor. You can also use different types of greens, such as spinach or arugula, depending on your personal preference.
Success Tips: Use fresh, high quality ingredients for the best flavor. The quality of the lemon juice and olive oil will have a significant impact on the taste of the dressing.
Common Mistakes to Avoid: Avoid overdressing the salad, as this can make it soggy. Start with a small amount of dressing and add more as needed.
Pro Tips for Best Results: Zest the lemon before juicing it to add an extra layer of citrus flavour to the dressing. Let the dressing sit for about 10 minutes to allow the flavours to meld.

Helpful Notes for This Lemon Salad Recipe

A few extra notes to consider when making this salad:

Lemon Details: Use fresh lemon juice for the best flavor. Bottled lemon juice often contains preservatives that can alter the taste.
Equipment Recommendations: A good quality whisk is essential for making the vinaigrette. Also, use a sharp knife to slice the vegetables evenly.
Making Ahead: You can prepare the vinaigrette ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to a week. Just be sure to whisk it again before using.

Variation of This Lemon Salad Recipe

There are endless variations of this salad to explore:

Seasonal Twists: In the summer, add fresh berries like strawberries or blueberries. In the fall, try adding roasted butternut squash or cranberries.
Optional Versions: For a heartier salad, add grilled chicken or shrimp. you can also add avocado for extra creaminess.
Creative Modifications: For a spicy kick, add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the dressing. A few chopped olives can also provide a salty and savory flavour.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the best ingredients for lemon salad?

The best lemon salads include fresh greens, ripe tomatoes, cucumbers, red onion, and a zesty lemon dressing. Consider adding feta cheese or grilled chicken for extra flavor and protein.

How do you make lemon salad dressing?

Lemon salad dressing typically consists of fresh lemon juice, olive oil, salt, pepper, and sometimes a touch of honey or Dijon mustard for added sweetness and tang. Whisk all ingredients together until emulsified.

Can I make lemon salad in advance?

It is best to assemble the lemon salad just before serving to prevent the greens from wilting. However, you can prepare the lemon dressing ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to a week.

What main dishes pair well with lemon salad?

Lemon salad pairs exceptionally well with grilled fish, chicken, or lamb. It can also be served as a light and refreshing side dish with pasta or alongside other Mediterranean-inspired dishes.