Simple Ranch Salad

Gluten-free option, Nut-free option, Soy-free option

Although this recipe is simple, it’s loaded with flavor and is an amazing side to almost anything and everything. If you’re a (vegan) ranch lover like us, this is the recipe for you. The combination of fresh veggies, Homemade Croutons and flavorful Ranch Dressing is just too good. Serve it with our Pesto Seitan Pizza or BBQ Seitan Pizza and Garlic Knots.

The Simple Ranch Salad is a classic and refreshing salad that’s incredibly easy to prepare, making it a popular choice for a quick and satisfying meal or as a side dish. This salad combines a medley of fresh, crisp vegetables with the creamy richness of vegan Ranch dressing, resulting in a harmonious blend of flavors and textures.

The star of this salad is the assortment of vegetables. Crisp iceberg lettuce and vibrant red cabbage provide the base, while shredded carrots, cherry tomatoes, and cucumbers add color, crunch, and a burst of natural sweetness. The addition of cubed vegan Cheddar cheese not only contributes a savory element but also makes the salad more satisfying.

Homemade croutons, particularly the Rosemary Variation, introduce a delightful crunch and herb-infused flavor to the salad. If you’re short on time, you can opt for store-bought croutons, ensuring they are gluten-free if needed.

The crowning glory of this Simple Ranch Salad is undoubtedly the vegan Ranch dressing. This creamy and tangy dressing coats the vegetables with its rich flavor, elevating the salad to a new level of deliciousness. Whether you choose to make your own Ranch dressing or use a store-bought option, be sure it aligns with your dietary preferences, whether that’s nut-free or soy-free.

Overall, the Simple Ranch Salad is a delightful and satisfying dish that’s perfect for those looking for a quick and easy way to enjoy a healthy and delicious salad, packed with fresh and vibrant ingredients. It’s a versatile choice that can be enjoyed as a main course or as a side to complement various meals.

PREP TIME: 15 minutes

COOK TIME: none

YIELD: 6 to 8 servings

INGREDIENTS:

• 5 to 6 cups (360 to 432 g) chopped iceberg lettuce (about ½ large head)
• 3 cups (210 g) chopped red cabbage
• 1 cup (110 g) shredded carrot
• 2 cups (360 g) cherry tomatoes, halved
• ½ large cucumber, sliced into quarters or half-moons
• ½ cup (80 g) cubed vegan Cheddar or store-bought (nut-free and/or soy-free if needed)
• 2 heaping cups (115 g) Homemade Croutons, Rosemary Variation (or store-bought, gluten-free if needed)
• 1 cup (240 ml) vegan Ranch Dressing or store-bought (nut-free and/or soy-free if needed)

INSTRUCTIONS:

1. In a large bowl, combine the chopped iceberg lettuce, red cabbage, shredded carrot, cherry tomatoes, and cucumber. Toss well to mix all the vegetables.
2. Add the cubed vegan Cheddar cheese to the salad mixture.
3. Gently mix in the Homemade Croutons. You can use the Rosemary Variation for added flavor and crunch. If you prefer, store-bought croutons can be used, just ensure they are gluten-free if needed.
4. Pour the vegan Ranch Dressing over the salad. Make sure the dressing is nut-free and soy-free if required.
5. Toss the salad thoroughly to ensure that all the ingredients are coated with the ranch dressing.
6. Serve your delicious Chopped Vegan Salad with Ranch Dressing immediately as a refreshing and satisfying meal.