Sometimes, you just need a quick and healthy dinner that doesn’t require an hour in the kitchen. This five-minute dinner salad is the perfect solution for busy nights when you want something fresh, satisfying, and packed with nutrients. It’s one of my go-to meals, especially after a long gym session or a day when I need to reset with something light but filling.

You can customize it endlessly based on what you have in the fridge. Let’s dig in and create this vibrant bowl of goodness.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Start with Crisp Greens 🌿

Begin by choosing your base. For a light, crunchy texture, I recommend a mix of arugula and baby spinach. They’re nutrient-packed and add a peppery bite to your salad. Spread about 4 cups of greens evenly into your serving bowl.

Tip: Wash and dry your greens beforehand to keep them crisp. Damp greens can make the salad soggy.

Step 2: Add Fresh Vegetables 🥒🍅

Next, toss in your favorite veggies. Here’s what I used:

Cucumber slices: Thin and refreshing, they add a hydrating crunch.
Cherry tomatoes: Halve them for a burst of sweetness.
Red bell pepper strips: Sweet and crunchy, they bring a pop of color.

Feel free to include grated carrots, radish slices, or whatever you have on hand.

Step 3: Protein Power-Up 🍗🥚

To make it a dinner-worthy dish, add a solid protein source. Some of my quick favorites are:

Pre-cooked grilled chicken breast slices (great for leftovers!).
A boiled egg, halved or sliced, for a creamy texture.
A handful of chickpeas or black beans for a plant-based option.

Each of these options is high in protein, making the salad filling enough for dinner.

Step 4: Sprinkle Some Texture 🥜🧀

A salad isn’t complete without toppings! Add a little crunch or creaminess with these options:

A handful of roasted sunflower seeds or pumpkin seeds.
Crumbled feta cheese or a sprinkle of grated Parmesan.
A few crushed whole-grain crackers for a unique twist.

Step 5: Dress It Up 🥗

Whisk together a simple, homemade dressing that ties everything together. In a small bowl or jar, mix:

2 tablespoons of olive oil
1 tablespoon of balsamic vinegar
1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
A pinch of salt and pepper

Pour the dressing over the salad and toss gently to coat every bite with flavor.

Freshness and Storage

Keep greens fresh: Store washed greens in an airtight container lined with paper towels to absorb moisture.

Dressing on the side: If you’re prepping this salad for later, store the dressing separately to avoid sogginess.

Make it heartier: Add cooked quinoa or brown rice for extra carbs and texture.

Flavor Boost Ideas

For a zesty twist: Add a squeeze of lemon or a sprinkle of chili flakes.
For a sweet touch: Toss in a handful of dried cranberries or chopped apples.
For herb lovers: Garnish with freshly chopped parsley or cilantro.

Pair It With…

This dinner salad is perfect on its own, but if you’re looking to pair it with something more, try:

A warm slice of whole-grain bread.
A bowl of my Easy Roasted Tomato Soup (check the recipe on the site!).
A side of garlic-roasted sweet potatoes for a satisfying carb boost.

Pin This Recipe for Later!

Love this five-minute dinner salad? Save it now so you can whip it up anytime. Your busy nights just got a whole lot healthier! 🌟