There’s something quietly satisfying about a house salad—that reliable, go-to bowl of greens that feels like a trusted friend on your plate. Pittsburgh-based Jessica Merchant captured this perfectly in her new cookbook Easy Everyday, where she shares her affection for what she calls the “signature house salad.”
Jessica’s idea struck a chord with me: a vibrant, flavorful green salad that pairs beautifully with nearly every meal. No matter what’s cooking, this salad is ready to step in and complement it flawlessly. It’s a bit like having your personal salad anthem.
Jessica’s House Salad: Familiar but Special
Jessica’s house salad is an inviting mix of fresh greens, carrots, tomatoes, onions, and croutons—but what really sets it apart are two unexpected stars: asiago cheese and sunflower seeds. These ingredients add a welcome depth and texture, giving the salad a delightful crunch and a subtle cheesy richness that makes it feel anything but ordinary.
It’s that little extra twist, those small but thoughtful choices, that turn a simple salad into something memorable. The kind of salad you want to eat again and again.
Liz Libré’s Lemony Arugula Classic
As I flipped through Jessica’s cookbook, my thoughts wandered to my friend Liz Libré, who’s had her own house salad ritual for over a decade. For Liz, it’s a simple arugula salad dressed with a bright, lemony vinaigrette—a recipe so beloved that her son Griffin, now 14, has been eating it since he was five and still asks for seconds.
Liz’s dressing is a freestyle masterpiece, something she tosses together without measuring but with plenty of love. It’s a balanced blend of olive oil, champagne vinegar, fresh lemon juice, minced garlic, Dijon mustard, a touch of mayo, and salt and pepper. The vinaigrette sings with a bright acidity that perfectly matches the peppery bite of arugula.
It’s a salad that feels fresh and easy, yet vibrant enough to become a family favorite—and that, I think, is the hallmark of a true house salad.
Dad’s Ever-Reliable Veggie Mix
Then there’s my dad’s version—simple, practical, and endlessly familiar. He laughs as he describes his salad, which often features variegated tomatoes, mushrooms, a medley of bell peppers, and avocado when the fruit is good. His dressings vary, sometimes a homemade concoction of olive oil, Dijon mustard, and balsamic vinegar stirred into a tangy blend reminiscent of lunches back in France. Other times, he opts for store-bought options like Newman’s Own or Garlic Expressions.
For him, this salad is a daily ritual, a fixture he’s eaten “probably every other day, for 20 years.” The devotion is impressive—and while he jokes it’s “boring,” I see it as a testament to how comfort and consistency can create a kind of delicious reliability that’s hard to beat.
Why We Love the House Salad
What these three salads have in common is their personal touch and consistency. A house salad isn’t just a bowl of lettuce—it’s a culinary signature. It reflects your tastes, your lifestyle, and your kitchen rhythm. Whether it’s Jessica’s cheese and seed combo, Liz’s lemon-kissed arugula, or my dad’s veggie rainbow, each salad tells a story.
They’re salads you know and trust. They fit in effortlessly with whatever you’re eating. And, importantly, they invite you to put your own spin on something that might otherwise feel generic.
Creating Your Own House Salad
The beauty of a house salad is in its flexibility. Start with a base you love—maybe peppery arugula, crisp romaine, or tender baby spinach. Add vegetables and textures that speak to you: crunchy carrots, sweet tomatoes, crisp cucumbers, or roasted nuts and seeds.
Don’t forget the extras—cheese, avocado, or homemade croutons can elevate the experience. And the dressing? That’s your opportunity to get creative. Whether it’s a simple splash of olive oil and vinegar or a more complex vinaigrette with mustard and garlic, find a combination that feels like you.
In the End, It’s About Ritual and Joy
A house salad is more than just a side dish. It’s a little daily pleasure, a simple way to eat more greens, and a consistent friend at your table. It’s comforting without being boring, familiar without being dull.
So, do you have a house salad? Or maybe, like me, you’re inspired to create one. Because in a world full of food trends and complicated recipes, sometimes the best thing you can do is embrace the simple, flavorful salad that’s all your own.
Would you consider making a house salad your signature? What would yours include?
