This Quick Lemon Parmesan Lettuce Salad is bright and refreshing! With crisp lettuce, tangy lemon, and savory Parmesan, it makes a tasty side dish or a light lunch.
Who knew salad could be this simple? Just toss the ingredients together, and you’re ready to enjoy a crunchy, zesty treat. Perfect for those busy days! 🥗
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Romaine Lettuce: Romaine adds a nice crunch and is perfect for salads. If you don’t have it, feel free to use iceberg or even mixed greens as they bring their own flavor and crunch.
Baby Spinach: The baby spinach adds a lovely softness. You can replace it with arugula for a peppery bite or kale for something heartier. Just be sure to chop kale finely if you go that route!
Red Onion: I love red onion for its mild sweetness. If it’s too strong for your taste, you can swap in green onions or shallots for a milder flavor.
Parmesan Cheese: Parmesan gives the salad a nice nutty flavor. If you don’t have it, try Pecorino Romano or even a plant-based cheese if you want a dairy-free option.
Dijon Mustard: This adds a zesty kick to the dressing. Honey mustard or yellow mustard can work too, but they will change the flavor slightly.
How Do I Make a Creamy Salad Dressing without a Blender?
Making a creamy dressing can be super simple! If you want a creamy texture without a blender, here’s a technique:
- Use a small bowl or jar for mixing.
- Add your base ingredients like lemon juice, mustard, oil, and any spices.
- Whisk them together vigorously with a fork until emulsified. If you want it creamier, add a bit of yogurt or mayo.
- Taste and adjust seasonings. You can always add more oil or lemon juice to balance flavors.
This way, you get a creamy dressing without needing any fancy equipment!
Quick Lemon Parmesan Lettuce Salad
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Salad Components:
- 4 cups romaine lettuce, chopped
- 1 cup baby spinach, chopped
- 1/2 medium red onion, thinly sliced
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
For The Dressing:
- 1 lemon, juiced
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- 1 garlic clove, minced
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This salad is incredibly quick to prepare! You’ll need about 10 minutes for prep and mixing. It’s perfect for a last-minute side or a light lunch. Just grab your ingredients, toss them together, and you’re all set!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Greens:
In a large salad bowl, start by adding the chopped romaine lettuce and baby spinach. Then, add the thinly sliced red onion on top. This mix gives your salad a lovely color and crunch!
2. Make the Dressing:
In a small bowl or jar, add the lemon juice, olive oil, Dijon mustard, minced garlic, red pepper flakes, salt, and black pepper. Whisk everything together until it’s well mixed and emulsified. This dressing is what gives the salad its delicious flavor.
3. Combine the Salad:
Pour the dressing over the prepared lettuce and onion. Toss everything gently but thoroughly to ensure all the greens are nicely coated. This way, you get that zesty flavor in every bite!
4. Add the Cheese:
Sprinkle the grated Parmesan cheese over the salad. Give it one last gentle toss just to mix it in with the greens and dressing.
5. Final Touches:
Take a moment to taste your salad. Adjust the seasoning with additional salt and pepper if needed. Serve your delicious Quick Lemon Parmesan Lettuce Salad immediately for the best freshness and crunch!
Enjoy this light, zesty salad as a quick side or a healthy snack! It’s perfect for any occasion!
FAQ for Quick Lemon Parmesan Lettuce Salad
Can I Use Different Types of Lettuce?
Absolutely! While romaine and baby spinach give this salad a great texture, you can substitute with any lettuce you prefer, such as iceberg, arugula, or mixed greens. Each will bring its own unique flavor!
What Can I Substitute for Parmesan Cheese?
If you don’t have Parmesan cheese on hand, you can use Pecorino Romano for a similar salty, nutty flavor. For a dairy-free option, try a plant-based Parmesan or nutritional yeast, which adds a cheesy note without the dairy.
How Long Can I Store Leftovers?
If you have any leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 1 day. Keep in mind that the salad may lose some crunch as the dressing can make the greens wilt. It’s best enjoyed fresh!
Can I Make the Dressing in Advance?
Yes! You can prepare the dressing ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to a week. Just give it a good shake or whisk it again before using to re-emulsify the ingredients.
