Fresh Mixed Greens Side Salad (for Steak, Pasta, & More!)

This simple mixed green salad is my go-to lazy girl side dish. It's so seriously simple that I honestly debated whether I could share it as a "recipe" here on PWWB. But it's such a staple at our house – I want you to know and love it too! Simply toss your favorite leafy mixed greens with a bright and punchy red wine vinaigrette – a palette-cleansing combo inspired by the classic French bistro salad. The result is a perfect light and fresh side salad for pasta, steak, salmon, and so much more.

Recipe by Jess Larson on April 8, 2024

Prep time: PT10M

Total time: PT10M

Rating

5 stars ( reviews)

Keywords

side salad, mixed greens, bistro salad, steak side dishes, simple salad, homemade salad dressing

Ingredients

red wine vinaigrette (below)
5 ounces mixed greens of choice
kosher salt and ground black pepper, to season
optional add-ins of choice: veggies (sliced cucumber, grated carrot, diced tomatoes), toasted nuts (pine nuts, pistachios, sunflower seeds), cheese (crumbled goat cheese or feta, grated parmesan or pecorino), etc.
4 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
3 tablespoons red wine vinegar
1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
1 teaspoon honey (substitute agave nectar or pure maple syrup if vegan)
½ shallot, finely diced (approx. 2 tablespoons)
2 cloves garlic, finely chopped or grated
kosher salt and ground black pepper, to season

Cuisine

American

Steps

Combine all listed ingredients in a small bowl or jar, seasoning with 1 teaspoon kosher salt and ground black pepper as desired. Whisk or shake to combine. Taste and season with additional kosher salt or ground black pepper as desired. Set aside, or store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 1 week. Learn more! ⇢ 5-Minute Red Wine Vinaigrette.
Place the spring mix in a large bowl, along with any salad add-ins you’d like. Season the greens with a good pinch of kosher salt and ground black pepper. Drizzle red wine vinaigrette over top. Toss to combine well. Taste and season with additional salt and ground black pepper as needed. Serve immediately. Enjoy!

Nutitrion

Calories: 141 calories
Carbohydrates: 4 g
Protein: 0.7 g
Fat: 14.1 g
Saturated Fat: 2 g
Trans Fat: 0 g
Cholesterol: 0 mg
Sodium: 199.3 mg
Sugar: 2.1 g

Reviews

Erika on 2024-06-21 (5 stars):
I’m typically more of a ranch person, but this vinaigrette was SO GOOD! Simple, easy recipe and I’ll definitely be adding this to the rotation.
BP on 2024-12-30 (5 stars):
This simple salad/dressing is the perfect addition to ANY meal! Served it for Christmas where we had Prime Rib & Lasagna. Perfect for both! Will be in our rotation as the New Year rolls in. Thanks for sharing!
Linsay on 2025-01-03 (5 stars):
I don’t leave recipe reviews, but I had to for this vinaigrette! Second time making it in as many weeks. I eat it over a bed of mixed greens.. I don’t know what it is, but I can’t stop! So zesty and refreshing!
Chris Cervantez on 2025-03-09 (5 stars):
I made this for Valentine's. Super tasty and my wife loved it as well! Tons of flavor and it was simple to make!
Sydnie Rasmussen on 2025-11-04 (5 stars):
This is such a delightful dressing. I will be making this salad all winter long with my heavy meals. I used carrots cucumber and radishes but can’t wait to make it again with nuts and cheese. The flavor combination of honey and vinegar is just so good. Such a versatile salad!
Greta on 2025-12-24 (5 stars):
I adore this vinaigrette! I have made it so many times and consider it my “house dressing”. Totally agree that it’s the perfect side salad for a heavier main dish. I love adding toasted pine nuts and goat cheese to this salad!
Brittany on 2026-01-12 (5 stars):
I have been making this salad on repeat since December!! (It's middle of January now) And every gathering I have brought it to I have sent the recipe link, so simple and delicious!!!
Mari Dominguez on 2026-03-22 (5 stars):
I wrote a glowing review and it dissappeared because they wanted the URL.