A simple side salad that was inspired by my Italian grandmother. Not only does it taste delicious, it comes together in 15 minutes or less, is super healthy and tastes similar to the classic and famous Olive Garden salad. And lots of people love that salad!
My grandmother made a side salad similar to this and ate it with every meal throughout her life. She continues to eat a salad with her meals at 95 years old. Eating healthy choices like salads throughout her life definitely has contributed to her continuing to be in tip top shape. What a role model for me, her doctor, and anyone else who knows her.
See the Tips and Tricks section below the recipe for some helpful recipe ideas. This becomes Paleo friendly when you use the recommended dressing and omit the recommended parm cheese.
Some music to get you in the Italian food mood:
Servings: 6
Preparation + Cooking Time: 15 minutes
Suggested kitchen tools: measuring cup, large mixing bowl, knife
Ingredients:
One 5 oz. container butter lettuce hearts (I used Butter Plus! by Organic Girl)
One tomato, diced
One cucumber, peeled and diced
1/4 cup sliced black or kalamata olives, pitted
1/2 cup finely shredded parmesan cheese (I used Violife vegan parm and hand shredded it)
1/4-1/2 cup Italian Vinaigrette (I used Primal Kitchen Italian Vinaigrette & Marinade)
How-To:
Rinse the lettuce and drain well. Place it in a large mixing bowl.
Dice the tomatoes and the peeled cucumber and place in the bowl with the lettuce
Add the sliced olives, the shredded parm cheese, and the dressing (start with 1/4 cup and add more as desired). Toss well.
Serve on a plate and top with extra vegan parmesan cheese if desired. Eat and enjoy!
Tips and Tricks:
I found my ingredients at Whole Foods but the ingredients could be found at most grocery stores and online
Don’t like olives, cucumber or tomatoes? Omit what you want and add veggies that you like. Create your own version!
Can’t find butter lettuce? Try shredded romaine instead.
While you don’t have to use the Primal Kitchen brand of dressing, it tastes the most like the Olive Garden dressing than any I’ve ever tried
Did you make this recipe or have feedback? Leave me a comment or fill out the form below!
I also love to hear how people made my recipes their own! Post it to social media and tag it #carolynsdailydishes or @carolynsbloomingcreations
The Quickest Italian Side Salad (VEG, DF, GF)
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Food prepared, styled and photographed by Carolyn J. Braden
