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Hilltop House Salad with Signature Dressing inspired by Hilltop Steakhouse
Inspired by Hilltop Steakhouse

Hilltop House Salad with Signature Dressing

Appetizer Vegetarian
A classic steakhouse starter featuring crisp mixed greens and seasonal vegetables with house-made dressing. This refreshing salad balances textures and flavors while offering a lighter beginning to a hearty meal. The preparation showcases simple, quality ingredients arranged with steakhouse presentation.
Prep Time 20 mins
Cook Time 0 mins
Inactive Time 30 mins
Total Time 50 mins
Servings 4

Ingredients

  • 8 cups Mixed greens (Such as romaine, iceberg, and leaf lettuce)
  • 1 cup Cherry tomatoes (Halved)
  • 1 medium Cucumber (Thinly sliced)
  • 1/4 cup Red onion (Thinly sliced)
  • 2 medium Carrots (Julienned or shredded)
  • 4 whole Radishes (Thinly sliced)
  • 1 cup Croutons (Homemade or store-bought)
  • 1/4 cup Red wine vinegar
  • 1 tbsp Dijon mustard
  • 1 tsp Honey
  • 1 clove Garlic (Minced)
  • 1/2 tsp Dried oregano
  • 1/2 tsp Dried basil
  • 1/2 cup Extra virgin olive oil
  • 1/4 tsp Salt
  • 1/4 tsp Black pepper (Freshly ground)

Tools You'll Need

  • Large mixing bowl
  • Salad spinner
  • Sharp knife
  • Cutting board
  • Whisk
  • Small jar with lid (optional for dressing)
  • Salad tongs

Chef's Tip

For the most vibrant salad, chill the serving plates in the refrigerator for 15 minutes before plating. This keeps the greens crisp longer and elevates the presentation.

Instructions

  1. For the dressing, combine red wine vinegar, Dijon mustard, honey, minced garlic, dried oregano, dried basil, salt, and pepper in a bowl or jar.
  2. Slowly whisk in the olive oil until emulsified. If using a jar, shake vigorously to combine. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to blend.
  3. Wash and thoroughly dry all greens and vegetables. Proper drying ensures the dressing will adhere properly.
  4. Tear larger lettuce leaves into bite-sized pieces, keeping smaller leaves whole.
  5. Prepare all vegetables according to ingredient list: halve cherry tomatoes, slice cucumber and radishes, julienne carrots, and thinly slice red onion.
  6. In a large bowl, combine mixed greens with about half of the prepared vegetables.
  7. Add about half of the dressing and toss gently to coat. Be careful not to overdress; you can always add more.
  8. Divide the dressed salad among chilled plates.
  9. Arrange remaining vegetables decoratively on top of each salad.
  10. Sprinkle with croutons and drizzle with additional dressing just before serving.

Plating

Serve on chilled plates with the salad forming a neat mound in the center. Arrange the colorful vegetables artfully on top, sprinkle with croutons, and finish with a light drizzle of dressing around the edges of the plate. For an elegant touch, place two chilled forks on folded napkins alongside each plate.

Storage & Reheating

The dressing can be made ahead and stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. Prepared (but undressed) salad components can be stored separately in airtight containers with paper towels to absorb moisture for up to 2 days. Always dress salads immediately before serving.

About This Recipe

This fresh salad is inspired by the Famous Hilltop Salad Bowl that provided a crisp start to meals at the iconic steakhouse. The combination of mixed greens and colorful vegetables offers textural variety and visual appeal, while the house-made dressing adds a distinctive flavor that balances tangy and savory notes.

How did it turn out?

We'd love to hear about your experience making this recipe!