Mixed Greens with Champagne Vinaigrette – Light & Elegant Salad
1. Introduction
Mixed Greens with Champagne Vinaigrette is the epitome of simple elegance. This salad highlights delicate leafy greens tossed in a bright, silky champagne vinaigrette that brings a refined, gourmet touch to any meal. Champagne vinegar has a light, crisp acidity that elevates greens without overpowering them, making it perfect for spring mix, arugula, spinach, and tender lettuces.
This salad works beautifully as a side dish for dinner parties, holiday meals, or romantic dinners, yet it’s easy enough to throw together for a quick lunch. With minimal ingredients and maximum freshness, it’s a refreshing, palate-cleansing choice that complements a wide variety of main dishes.
2. Ingredients Breakdown
Mixed Greens
Any combination of spring mix, baby spinach, arugula, frisée, or butter lettuce works. The variety adds texture and color.
Champagne Vinegar
Delicate vinegar with floral acidity; milder than white wine vinegar. Key to the dressing’s light, bright flavor.
Olive Oil
Extra-virgin provides richness and balances the acidity of the vinegar.
Honey or Maple Syrup
Adds subtle sweetness to harmonize the vinaigrette.
Dijon Mustard
Acts as an emulsifier and provides mild sharpness.
Salt & Pepper
Essential for seasoning the dressing and greens.
Substitutions
- Champagne vinegar → white wine vinegar or rice vinegar
- Honey → agave or maple syrup
- Olive oil → avocado oil
- Dijon mustard → whole grain mustard
Optional Add-Ins
- Sliced radishes
- Cucumbers or shaved fennel
- Cherry tomatoes
- Pear slices or apples
- Goat cheese or feta
- Toasted almonds, walnuts, or pecans
- Dried cranberries
3. Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Make the Champagne Vinaigrette
In a small bowl or jar, whisk together:
- 3 tbsp champagne vinegar
- 1 tsp Dijon mustard
- 1 tsp honey
- ¼ cup olive oil
- Salt & pepper to taste
Shake or whisk until fully emulsified.
2. Prepare the Greens
Rinse and dry mixed greens. Use a salad spinner to ensure they are thoroughly dry for best texture.
3. Assemble the Salad
Place greens in a large bowl. Add optional toppings like radishes, cucumbers, or tomatoes.
4. Dress the Salad
Drizzle the vinaigrette over the greens just before serving. Toss gently to coat evenly.
5. Serve Fresh
Transfer to plates and top with nuts, cheese, or fruit if desired.
4. Tips and Variations
Tips
- Dry greens thoroughly to prevent a watery salad.
- Add dressing gradually—you can always add more.
- Taste and adjust vinaigrette sweetness or acidity to preference.
Variations
- Sweet & Tangy: Add sliced strawberries and goat cheese.
- Crunchy: Add nuts, seeds, or crispy shallots.
- Savory: Add shaved Parmesan and cracked black pepper.
- Protein boost: Add grilled chicken, salmon, or shrimp.
5. Serving Suggestions
Pairs Well With
- Grilled fish or seafood
- Roast chicken or turkey
- Pasta dishes
- Steak or lamb
Presentation Ideas
- Use a wide shallow bowl for a restaurant-style look.
- Add edible flowers for a gourmet touch.
Drink Pairings
- Champagne or Prosecco
- Sauvignon Blanc
- Sparkling water with citrus
6. Storage and Reheating Instructions
- Store undressed greens in an airtight container for 2–3 days.
- Champagne vinaigrette keeps in the fridge for up to 1 week.
- Do not store dressed salad—it will wilt.
- Shake dressing before each use.
7. Recipe Notes
- For best flavor, use high-quality extra-virgin olive oil.
- Add salt directly to the greens before tossing—this enhances flavor.
- Use cold greens for ultimate crispness.
8. Nutrition Information (Per Serving)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 160 |
| Fat | 14g |
| Carbohydrates | 6g |
| Sugar | 4g |
| Fiber | 2g |
| Protein | 2g |
| Sodium | 120mg |
Estimates may vary based on toppings.
9. Recipe Card Summary
Course: Salad
Cuisine: American / Modern
Servings: 4
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Total Time: 10 minutes
Ingredients
- 6 cups mixed greens
- 3 tbsp champagne vinegar
- ¼ cup olive oil
- 1 tsp Dijon mustard
- 1 tsp honey
- Salt & pepper to taste
Instructions
- Whisk or shake dressing ingredients until emulsified.
- Prepare and dry mixed greens.
- Place greens in a bowl with preferred toppings.
- Drizzle vinaigrette and toss gently.
- Serve immediately.
Diet Tags
- Vegetarian
- Gluten-free
- Dairy-free (without cheese add-ins)
- Low-carb
Health Benefits
- Packed with antioxidants from leafy greens
- Healthy fats from olive oil
- Low in calories
- Supports heart and digestive health
FAQs
1. Is champagne vinegar strong?
No—it’s light, floral, and less acidic than many vinegars.
2. Can I prep this salad ahead?
Prep ingredients separately; combine before serving.
3. Can I add fruit?
Yes—berries, apples, or pears work beautifully.
4. Can I use store-bought vinaigrette?
Yes, but homemade offers fresher flavor and better control.
5. What greens work best?
Spring mix, arugula, spinach, or any tender lettuce blend.
11. Final Thoughts
Mixed Greens with Champagne Vinaigrette is refreshing, elegant, and versatile. The light acidity from champagne vinegar pairs perfectly with crisp greens, making this salad a beautiful starter or side dish for any meal. With endless add-in possibilities, it’s a dish you can customize for any occasion—from everyday lunches to fine-dining presentations.