Healthy Green Salad that will keep you full! Perfect for weight loss

Healthy Green Salad that will keep you full! Perfect for weight loss is a easy Italian-American recipe that serves 4. 180 calories per serving. Recipe by The Modern Nonna on YouTube.

Prep: 16 min | Cook: PT0M | Total: 25 min

Cost: $4.30 total, $1.08 per serving

Ingredients

  • 1 head Romaine Lettuce (washed, trimmed, stacked and rolled before slicing)
  • 5 pieces Radishes (thinly sliced on a diagonal; optional)
  • 2 stalks Green Onions (sliced thin, include both white and green parts)
  • 1 medium Cucumber (seedless preferred, diced into bite‑size pieces)
  • 1 tsp Salt (kosher or sea salt)
  • 1 tbsp Olive Oil (extra‑virgin for best flavor)
  • 3 tbsp Plain Yogurt (full‑fat Greek yogurt works best for creaminess)

Instructions

  1. Prepare Romaine Lettuce

    Stack the romaine lettuce leaves, roll them tightly, and slice into thin ribbons using a sharp chef’s knife.

    Time: PT5M

  2. Slice Radishes

    Trim the radish ends and slice thinly on a diagonal; set aside.

    Time: PT2M

  3. Slice Green Onions

    Trim the root ends and slice the green onions thinly; set aside.

    Time: PT2M

  4. Dice Cucumber

    Wash the cucumber, cut into bite‑size dice; sprinkle lightly with salt to draw out moisture.

    Time: PT3M

  5. Combine Vegetables

    In a large salad bowl, combine the sliced lettuce, radishes, green onions, and cucumber.

    Time: PT2M

  6. Prepare Yogurt Dressing

    In a small bowl, whisk together plain yogurt, olive oil, and a pinch of salt until smooth.

    Time: PT2M

  7. Dress the Salad

    Drizzle the yogurt dressing over the salad and toss until evenly coated.

    Time: PT2M

  8. Serve

    Serve immediately, or let sit for a few minutes for flavors to meld.

    Time: PT0M

Nutrition Facts

Calories
180
Protein
4 g
Carbohydrates
8 g
Fat
16 g
Fiber
3 g

Dietary info: Vegetarian, Gluten-Free, Low-Carb, Keto-Friendly (if using full‑fat yogurt)

Allergens: Dairy

Last updated: April 18, 2026

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Healthy Green Salad that will keep you full! Perfect for weight loss

Recipe by The Modern Nonna

A bright, crunchy romaine lettuce salad tossed with thin radish slices, green onions, and diced cucumber, all coated in a tangy, creamy yogurt‑olive‑oil dressing that’s so good you’ll want to chug it. Inspired by the creator’s mom, this salad is low‑calorie, nutrient‑dense, and perfect for a quick lunch or side.

EasyItalian-AmericanServes 4

Shop all ingredients on Amazon in one click • Printable PDF with shopping checklist

Source Video
18m
Prep
0m
Cook
10m
Cleanup
28m
Total

Cost Breakdown

$4.30
Total cost
$1.08
Per serving

Critical Success Points

  • Slice lettuce thinly for even texture
  • Whisk yogurt dressing until smooth
  • Toss salad gently to coat evenly

Safety Warnings

  • Use a sharp knife carefully to avoid cuts
  • Olive oil can be slippery; handle with care

Frequently Asked Questions

Everything you need to know about this recipe

Q

What is the cultural significance and history of green salads in Italian‑American cuisine?

A

Green salads have long been a staple in Italian‑American households, representing a fresh, seasonal counterpoint to richer pasta and meat dishes. Immigrants brought simple vinaigrette‑style dressings, which evolved into creamier versions using yogurt or ricotta for a lighter, health‑focused twist.

cultural
Q

What traditional regional variations of green salads exist in Italian cuisine?

A

In northern Italy, salads often feature bitter greens like radicchio with a simple lemon‑olive oil dressing, while southern regions favor milder lettuces with citrus or yogurt‑based dressings. The use of fresh herbs, capers, and anchovies also varies by region.

cultural
Q

How is a creamy yogurt dressing traditionally used in Southern Italian households?

A

In Southern Italy, especially Sicily, a yogurt‑based dressing (sometimes mixed with ricotta) is used to lighten salads during hot summer months. It provides a tangy, cooling element that pairs well with crisp vegetables and fresh herbs.

cultural
Q

What occasions or celebrations is a fresh green salad like this traditionally served in Italian families?

A

A light, crisp salad is commonly served at family lunches, holiday feasts, and as a starter for larger meals such as Sunday roasts or festive Christmas dinners. Its freshness balances richer courses and is especially popular during summer gatherings.

cultural
Q

What authentic ingredients are used in a classic Italian green salad versus modern substitutes?

A

Traditional Italian salads use romaine or escarole, extra‑virgin olive oil, lemon juice or vinegar, and sometimes grated Parmigiano. Modern twists, like this recipe, replace lemon juice with plain yogurt for extra creaminess while still keeping olive oil and salt as core ingredients.

cultural
Q

What other Italian dishes pair well with this creamy green salad?

A

The salad pairs beautifully with grilled fish such as branzino, roasted chicken, or a simple pasta al pomodoro. It also complements antipasto platters featuring cured meats, olives, and fresh mozzarella.

cultural
Q

How has the concept of a “healthiest” salad evolved in modern Italian cooking?

A

Modern Italian chefs emphasize nutrient density, using whole‑food ingredients, reduced oil, and probiotic‑rich yogurts. This reflects a shift from heavy oil‑laden dressings to lighter, protein‑rich options that still honor traditional flavors.

cultural
Q

What are the most common mistakes to avoid when slicing romaine lettuce for this salad?

A

A common error is cutting the lettuce too thick, which creates a chewy texture. Rolling the leaves before slicing ensures thin, uniform ribbons that blend well with the dressing.

technical
Q

Why does this recipe use plain yogurt instead of mayonnaise for the dressing?

A

Plain yogurt provides tanginess and protein with far fewer calories and saturated fats than mayonnaise. It also adds a probiotic boost, keeping the dressing lighter and more nutritious while still delivering creaminess.

technical
Q

What does the YouTube channel The Modern Nonna specialize in?

A

The Modern Nonna focuses on modern twists of classic Italian recipes, blending traditional techniques with health‑conscious ingredients. The channel emphasizes approachable home cooking, seasonal produce, and clear, step‑by‑step video tutorials.

channel

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