At Shared Family Recipes, we believe even the simplest dishes have a place at the table. This Simple Side Salad with Lemon Tahini Dressing is the kind of recipe that quietly supports the meal — fresh, balanced, and made to be shared alongside whatever main dish brings everyone together.
Bright lemon, creamy tahini, crunchy almonds, and a touch of sweetness from dried cranberries come together in a way that feels thoughtful but effortless. It’s a salad that complements rich, comforting dishes while adding color and freshness to the table — the kind of recipe you make again and again for family dinners, gatherings, and everyday moments worth sharing.
Simple Side Salad Recipe
Prep Time
10 min
Serves
4
Ingredients
Salad
- 4–5 cups mixed greens or arugula
- ¼ cup sliced almonds, lightly toasted
- ¼ cup dried cranberries
Lemon Tahini Dressing
- 3 tbsp tahini
- 2 tbsp fresh lemon juice
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 small garlic clove, finely grated
- 2–4 tbsp warm water (to thin)
- Salt, to taste
Steps
1
Make the dressing
In a small bowl, whisk tahini, lemon juice, olive oil, and garlic.
Slowly whisk in warm water until smooth and pourable.
Season with salt.
2
Assemble the salad
Add greens to a large bowl.
Drizzle lightly with dressing and toss gently.
3
Finish
Top with toasted almonds and dried cranberries just before serving.
Tips and Variations
- Use arugula for a peppery bite
- Swap almonds for pistachios or walnuts
- Add shaved Parmesan or feta if desired
- Make dressing ahead — keeps 5 days refrigerated
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