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A clear glass bowl filled with a fresh Lemon Parmesan Lettuce Salad, featuring crisp greens, shaved cheese, and a whole lemon nearby.
Layla

Lemon Parmesan Lettuce Salad

A wonderfully refreshing and vibrant salad that combines crisp lettuce with a bright, zesty lemon-Parmesan vinaigrette. Simple, quick, and bursting with fresh flavors, it's perfect as a side dish or light lunch.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Total Time 15 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Appetizer, Salad, Side Dish
Cuisine: American, Mediterranean
Calories: 180
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Salad
  • 1 large head Romaine lettuce or butter lettuce, washed, dried, and torn into bite-sized pieces
  • 1/2 cup Parmesan cheese freshly grated or shaved, plus extra for garnish
  • 1 cup Croutons store-bought or homemade (optional, for crunch)
For the Lemon Parmesan Dressing
  • 1/4 cup Extra virgin olive oil
  • 2 tbsp Lemon juice freshly squeezed
  • 1 tsp Dijon mustard
  • 1 clove Garlic minced or grated
  • 2 tbsp Parmesan cheese finely grated
  • 1/4 tsp Salt or to taste
  • 1/8 tsp Black pepper freshly ground, or to taste

Equipment

  • Large Mixing Bowl
  • Small Whisk
  • Cutting board
  • Sharp knife
  • Measuring cups and spoons
  • Garlic press (optional)

Method
 

Prepare the Salad Ingredients
  1. Wash and thoroughly dry the lettuce. It's crucial for crispness and for the dressing to adhere well. Tear or chop the lettuce into bite-sized pieces and place them in a large mixing bowl.
Make the Lemon Parmesan Dressing
  1. In a small bowl, combine the extra virgin olive oil, fresh lemon juice, Dijon mustard, minced garlic, finely grated Parmesan cheese, salt, and black pepper.
  2. Whisk vigorously until all ingredients are well combined and the dressing is emulsified. Taste and adjust seasonings if necessary; you might want more lemon, salt, or pepper depending on your preference.
Assemble the Salad
  1. Pour the prepared lemon Parmesan dressing over the lettuce in the large mixing bowl. Toss gently but thoroughly, ensuring all the lettuce pieces are lightly coated.
  2. Add the 1/2 cup of grated or shaved Parmesan cheese and croutons (if using) to the bowl. Toss once more to distribute evenly.
  3. Serve the Lemon Parmesan Lettuce Salad immediately, garnished with a little extra Parmesan cheese if desired.

Notes

For an extra crunch, you can toast the croutons in a pan with a little olive oil until golden. This salad is best served fresh. If preparing ahead, keep the dressing separate and toss just before serving to prevent the lettuce from wilting. Add grilled chicken or shrimp for a complete meal.