This bright and zesty salad is a perfect mix of crunchy veggies and tangy lemon, topped with tasty Parmesan cheese. It’s so refreshing, you’ll want to munch on it all day!
I love how the crunchy textures dance in your mouth, and hey, who doesn’t love a little cheese? Serve it alongside your favorite meal or enjoy it as a light snack. Yum!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Romaine Lettuce: Romaine is crunchy and holds dressings well, which makes it perfect for this salad. If you’re out of Romaine, feel free to use other greens like iceberg, arugula, or a mixed greens blend.
Cherry Tomatoes: These add a nice sweetness and pop of color. If cherry tomatoes aren’t available, you can use diced regular tomatoes or even bell peppers for a crunchy bite.
Croutons: You can buy croutons or make your own by toasting bread cubes with a bit of oil and seasoning. If you’re trying to cut carbs, skip the croutons altogether and add nuts or seeds for crunch!
Parmesan Cheese: Freshly grated Parmesan adds a unique taste. If it’s not available, you can substitute with Pecorino Romano or a dairy-free alternative to cater to dietary needs.
Lemon: Fresh lemon juice brightens the salad. If you don’t have lemons, lime juice works too. In a pinch, a splash of vinegar can add the needed acidity!
How Do I Make My Dressing Extra Creamy?
To make the dressing creamier, consider adding a splash of plain yogurt or a tablespoon of mayonnaise. This helps to create a thicker texture that clings nicely to the salad ingredients. Here’s a simple way to do it:
- Mix yogurt or mayo with the olive oil, lemon juice, and Dijon mustard.
- Whisk until smooth, then stir in the minced garlic, salt, and pepper.
This addition gives a nice creamy feel without overpowering the freshness of the lemon and veggies!
Nana’s Crunchy Lemon Parmesan Salad
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Fresh Veggies:
- 1 large head of Romaine lettuce, chopped
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
Crunchy Additions:
- 1/2 cup croutons (seasoned, homemade or store-bought)
- 1/3 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
For the Dressing:
- 1 lemon (zest and juice)
- 3 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp Dijon mustard
- 1 garlic clove, minced
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
You will need about 10-15 minutes to prep and make this salad. It’s quick, fresh, and perfect for a side dish or light meal!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Lettuce:
Start by washing your Romaine lettuce thoroughly. Make sure you dry it well, as you don’t want extra water in your salad. Once dried, chop it into bite-sized pieces and toss it into a large salad bowl.
2. Add the Veggies:
Next, add the halved cherry tomatoes to the bowl with the lettuce. This will add a sweet burst of flavor and color to your salad!
3. Make the Dressing:
In a smaller bowl, combine the olive oil, freshly squeezed lemon juice, lemon zest, Dijon mustard, minced garlic, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Use a whisk to mix everything together until it’s well blended and smooth.
4. Dress the Salad:
Pour the lemon dressing over your salad. Gently toss everything together, making sure to coat all the veggies evenly with the dressing. This is where the magic happens!
5. Cheese Time!
Now, sprinkle the freshly grated Parmesan cheese over the top of your salad. This will give it a delicious salty finish that complements the zestiness of the dressing.
6. Final Touch:
Finally, add a generous grind of black pepper over the salad for an extra layer of flavor. Feel free to adjust the amount based on how much you love pepper!
7. Serve and Enjoy:
Serve the salad immediately so it stays crunchy and fresh. Enjoy the delightful combination of textures and flavors—your taste buds will thank you!
This simple yet flavorful salad combines juicy veggies, zesty lemon dressing, crunchy croutons, and sharp Parmesan cheese for a refreshing side or light meal. Enjoy every bite!
Can I Use Different Types of Lettuce?
Yes, you can absolutely use other types of lettuce! While Romaine provides a nice crunch, alternatives like iceberg, arugula, or spinach also work well, each adding a different flavor and texture to the salad.
How Can I Make This Salad Vegan?
To make this salad vegan, simply omit the Parmesan cheese or substitute it with a dairy-free alternative. You could also use nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor without the dairy!
Can I Prepare the Salad in Advance?
While you can prepare the dressing ahead of time and store it in the fridge, it’s best to assemble the salad just before serving for maximum crunchiness. If you must prep ahead, keep the lettuce and other ingredients separate until you’re ready to eat.
How Do I Store Leftover Salad?
If you have leftover salad, store the ingredients in an airtight container. Keep the dressing separate to prevent sogginess. Consume the salad within 1-2 days for the best taste and texture!
