Name: Divorce Salad
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 5 min
Total time: 15 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 large head romaine lettuce, chopped; 1/2 red onion, thinly sliced; 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved; 1/2 cucumber, thinly sliced; 1/2 cup feta cheese, crumbled; 1/4 cup toasted almonds or walnuts; 3 tablespoons olive oil; 1 tablespoon red wine vinegar or balsamic vinegar; 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard; 1 teaspoon honey or maple syrup; Salt and pepper, to taste

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Divorce Salad might sound dramatic, but it’s actually a delicious and surprisingly addictive salad that’s perfect for a quick lunch, a light dinner, or even as a side dish. This salad became popular for being the kind of dish someone might obsess over during a life change—like a breakup or divorce—because it’s easy, healthy, and packed with flavor. It’s a no-fuss mix of crispy greens, tangy dressing, and just enough crunch to keep every bite exciting.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

I love how quick and simple this salad is to throw together, especially on days when I don’t feel like cooking. It’s full of fresh, crisp textures and bold flavors, thanks to a tangy vinaigrette and satisfying toppings. I can easily customize it with whatever I have in the fridge, and it always hits the spot without making me feel weighed down. It’s also great for meal prep and keeps well in the fridge (just hold off on the dressing until serving time).

Ingredients

(Here’s a tip: Check out the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Romaine lettuce, chopped
Red onion, thinly sliced
Cherry tomatoes, halved
Cucumber, thinly sliced
Feta cheese, crumbled
Toasted almonds or walnuts
Olive oil
Red wine vinegar or balsamic vinegar
Dijon mustard
Honey or maple syrup
Salt and pepper

Directions

I start by prepping all the vegetables—chopping the romaine, slicing the red onion and cucumber, and halving the cherry tomatoes.
Then I toast the nuts in a dry skillet over medium heat until fragrant and golden, which takes about 3–5 minutes.
For the dressing, I whisk together olive oil, vinegar, Dijon mustard, honey, salt, and pepper until smooth and emulsified.
In a large bowl, I toss the lettuce, tomatoes, cucumbers, red onions, and nuts together.
I add the crumbled feta on top, then drizzle with the vinaigrette just before serving.
I toss everything gently and serve immediately.

Servings and timing

This recipe makes about 2–3 servings as a main dish or 4–5 as a side. It takes only about 15 minutes from start to finish, making it one of my go-to salads when I’m short on time.

Variations

I like switching up the nuts with pepitas or sunflower seeds when I want something different. Sometimes I add grilled chicken, chickpeas, or avocado to make it more filling. If I want extra crunch, I’ll toss in some croutons. The feta can also be swapped with goat cheese or left out completely for a dairy-free version.

Storage/reheating

If I’m making this ahead, I store the salad ingredients and dressing separately in the fridge for up to 3 days. Once dressed, the salad is best eaten right away to keep the lettuce crisp. I don’t reheat this one—it’s meant to be enjoyed cold and fresh.

FAQs

What is Divorce Salad and why is it called that?

Divorce Salad got its name because it’s simple, satisfying, and often made during big life transitions. It’s the kind of meal I can rely on when I don’t feel like cooking something complicated.

Can I make this salad ahead of time?

Yes, I usually prep the veggies and keep them in containers, then add the dressing right before eating. It holds up well that way.

Is this salad good for weight loss?

It can be! I find it’s low in calories and high in fiber, especially if I skip the cheese or add a lean protein to make it more filling.

Can I use a store-bought dressing?

Definitely. I’ve used store-bought vinaigrettes before when I’m in a rush. Just go for something tangy and not too creamy to keep the freshness.

What’s the best protein to add to Divorce Salad?

I love grilled chicken or salmon for extra protein. Chickpeas are also a great plant-based option if I want to keep it vegetarian.

Conclusion

Divorce Salad is one of those surprisingly craveable dishes that I keep coming back to, whether I’m going through a life change or just want a fresh, easy meal. It’s flexible, fast, and full of flavor—and I never get tired of finding new ways to enjoy it.