This refreshing salad mixes crunchy greens with a zesty lemon dressing and a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese. It’s a bright and tasty choice for any meal!
You can’t go wrong with a little crunch and a lot of flavor! I love serving this salad alongside grilled chicken—it’s the perfect match. Plus, it’s super easy to whip up!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Romaine Lettuce: Romaine adds a nice crunch and nutritional value. If you can’t find it, try using kale or mixed greens. They also hold up well with dressing.
Red Onion: For a milder flavor, you can use green onions or shallots. They add nice color and taste without being too strong.
Croutons: Homemade croutons are quick to make. Just cube stale bread, toss it with olive oil and seasonings, then bake until crispy. Store-bought croutons are great too if you’re short on time.
Parmesan Cheese: Freshly grated Parmesan is a must for the best flavor. If you’re looking for a dairy-free option, try nutritional yeast or a blend of nuts crushed into a cheese-like texture.
Lemon Juice: Fresh lemon juice brightens the salad. If you don’t have lemon, lime juice works as a nice substitute.
How Do You Make the Perfect Crunchy Salad?
The key to a crunchy salad is all about the components and how you prepare them. Here’s how to get that perfect crunch:
- Wash and dry your greens thoroughly. Excess water can make them soggy.
- Chop the lettuce into bite-sized pieces instead of larger chunks, so it’s easier to eat.
- For the best dressing, whisk all the ingredients well for a smooth consistency that coats the lettuce evenly.
- Don’t add croutons until you’re ready to serve. This keeps them crunchy rather than soggy.
These tips ensure your salad stays fresh and crunchy until the very last bite!
Nana’s Crunchy Lemon Parmesan Salad
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Salad:
- 1 large head of romaine lettuce, chopped
- 1/2 small red onion, thinly sliced
- 1 cup homemade or store-bought croutons
- 1/2 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
For the Dressing:
- 1 lemon, juiced and zested
- 3 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tbsp white wine vinegar or apple cider vinegar
- 1 tsp Dijon mustard
- 1 garlic clove, minced
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This salad takes about 10 minutes to prepare with no cooking involved! It’s a quick and easy dish perfect for any meal or occasion.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Combine the Greens:
In a large salad bowl, add the chopped romaine lettuce and the thinly sliced red onion. Toss them gently to mix the greens.
2. Make the Dressing:
In a small bowl, whisk together the lemon juice and zest, olive oil, white wine vinegar (or apple cider vinegar), Dijon mustard, and minced garlic. Mix until the dressing is well combined and smooth.
3. Season the Dressing:
Add salt and freshly ground black pepper to the dressing to taste. Adjust the seasoning as you like—it should be bright and flavorful!
4. Dress the Salad:
Pour the dressing over the lettuce and onions, making sure to coat them evenly. Toss the salad gently to ensure all the greens are well covered in the dressing.
5. Add Crunch and Cheese:
Now it’s time for the croutons! Sprinkle them over the salad along with the freshly grated Parmesan cheese.
6. Final Toss:
Give the salad one last gentle toss to mix in the croutons and cheese evenly throughout the lettuce.
7. Serve and Enjoy:
Serve the salad immediately to enjoy the crisp crunch and fresh flavors. It pairs wonderfully with grilled chicken or as a refreshing side dish!
This simple yet flavorful salad features crisp romaine, sharp Parmesan, crunchy croutons, and a zesty lemon dressing that brightens the dish. It’s perfect as a light starter or a side to any main meal!
Can I Use Other Types of Lettuce?
Absolutely! While romaine adds great crunch, you can substitute with other greens like kale, butter lettuce, or mixed salad greens for a different flavor and texture.
How Long Will Leftovers Last?
Leftovers should be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. However, the croutons may lose their crunch, so it’s best to add them fresh when serving.
Can I Make the Dressing Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can prepare the dressing in advance! Just store it in a sealed jar in the fridge for up to a week. Shake well before using, and adjust seasoning if needed.
What Can I Substitute for Parmesan Cheese?
If you’re looking for a dairy-free option, try nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor. Alternatively, you can use Pecorino Romano or a similar hard cheese if you want to keep it cheesy.