Citrus-Poppy Seed Rainbow Salad

By AislePrompt Test Kitchen · Reviewed by AislePrompt Editorial · Published 2026-04-06 · Updated 2026-04-06

A vibrant, nutrient-packed salad featuring crisp seasonal vegetables tossed in a bright lemon-poppy seed dressing, perfect for a refreshing lunch or side dish. This mediterranean-inspired salads (vegan, gluten-free) ready in about 15 minutes pairs mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, cucumber into a side that holds its own next to almost any main — bright, balanced, and quick enough to slot into a weeknight plate. Each serving lands at about 220 calories and feeds 2, so it slots cleanly next to roasted proteins, grain bowls, or weeknight mains. Tap "Plan a meal with the AI" below to drop this recipe into your week and send the ingredients straight to Instacart. Nutrition values are approximate, calculated from USDA FoodData Central (fdc.nal.usda.gov) — verify against ingredient labels for any health-driven dietary plan.

Ingredients

• 2 cups mixed greens
• 1/2 cup cherry tomatoes
• 1/4 cup cucumber
• 1/4 cup red bell pepper
• 1/4 cup shredded carrots
• 1/4 cup red onion
• 2 tbsp lemon juice
• 1 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
• 1 tsp poppy seeds
• 1/4 tsp salt
• 1/8 tsp black pepper

Instructions

1. Step 1: In a large bowl, combine 2 cups mixed greens, 1/2 cup cherry tomatoes, 1/4 cup diced cucumber, 1/4 cup thinly sliced red bell pepper, 1/4 cup shredded carrots, and 1/4 cup thinly sliced red onion.
2. Step 2: Whisk together 2 tbsp lemon juice, 1 tbsp extra virgin olive oil, 1 tsp poppy seeds, 1/4 tsp salt, and 1/8 tsp black pepper in a small bowl until emulsified and fragrant.
3. Step 3: Pour the dressing over the vegetables and toss gently until evenly coated, ensuring every leaf is lightly glazed and the flavors meld together.