This Lemon Parmesan Salad combines the crispness of romaine with the sharpness of Parmesan, all brought together by a zesty lemon dressing. It’s a simple yet delightful dish that brings a burst of flavor to your meal. With its crunchy texture and invigorating taste, this salad is a must-try for anyone looking to spice up their lunch or dinner table.
One of the best parts about this salad is its versatility. You can whip it up in just a few minutes, making it a fantastic option for busy weeknights. Plus, it uses straightforward ingredients that you probably already have on hand. It’s not just a side dish – it can be a star on its own!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Ready in 10 minutes: Preparation is quick and hassle-free.
- Made with pantry staples: Simple ingredients that you may already have.
- Perfect for meal prep: Great for packing lunches or serving at gatherings.
- Refreshing and light: A tasty way to add greens to your diet.
Ingredients for Lemon Parmesan Salad
- 1 head Romaine lettuce, chopped
- 1 Shallot, thinly sliced
- ½ cup Parmesan cheese, grated
- 3 tablespoons Lemon juice, freshly squeezed
- ¼ cup Olive oil
- Salt, to taste
- Pepper, to taste
Step-by-Step Instructions for Lemon Parmesan Salad
- Chop the romaine lettuce into bite-sized pieces and place it in a large salad bowl.
- Slice the shallot thinly and add it to the bowl with the lettuce.
- Sprinkle the grated Parmesan cheese over the top of the salad.
- In a small bowl, whisk together the lemon juice, olive oil, salt, and pepper until well combined.
- Drizzle the dressing over the salad, tossing everything together until evenly coated.
Tips for Success
- Use fresh lemon juice for the best flavor – skip the bottled stuff!
- Adjust the cheese amount to your liking; more cheese means more flavor!
- Add some croutons for a crunchy twist if you desire extra texture.
Substitutions & Variations of Lemon Parmesan Salad
To Make It Vegan/Gluten-Free: Swap Parmesan with a plant-based cheese alternative and make sure the dressing is gluten-free for those dietary needs.
Variations: For an extra pop of flavor, stir in some cherry tomatoes or add sliced cucumbers. Want to make it heartier? Toss in some chickpeas or grilled chicken for added protein.
Storage Instructions for Lemon Parmesan Salad
Refrigerator: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 2 days.
Freezer: This salad is best eaten fresh. Freezing is not recommended due to the texture of the greens.
Make-Ahead: Pre-chop the lettuce and shallots the night before and store them separately to save time during meal prep.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) of Lemon Parmesan Salad
Can I make this salad in advance?
Yes, you can prepare the ingredients and store them separately for a day before serving. Just add the dressing right before eating to keep it fresh.
What can I add for more protein?
Adding grilled chicken, chickpeas, or even nuts can boost the protein content.
Can I use other types of cheese?
Absolutely! Feta or goat cheese would make great alternatives to Parmesan if you’re looking for something different.
Final Toughts
This Lemon Parmesan Salad is a fantastic choice when you need a quick and tasty meal that brightens up your day. The combination of fresh lettuce, vibrant flavors, and that zingy lemon dressing makes it a go-to recipe for any occasion. Why not give this refreshing dish a try? You may find it quickly becomes a favorite in your household! Share your thoughts and give us a star rating below!
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Lemon Parmesan Salad
A light and refreshing salad featuring crisp romaine lettuce, sharp Parmesan cheese, and a zesty lemon dressing, perfect for any occasion.
- Total Time: 10 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 1 head Romaine lettuce, chopped
- 1 Shallot, thinly sliced
- ½ cup Parmesan cheese, grated
- 3 tablespoons Lemon juice, freshly squeezed
- ¼ cup Olive oil
- Salt, to taste
- Pepper, to taste
Instructions
- Chop the romaine lettuce into bite-sized pieces and place it in a large salad bowl.
- Slice the shallot thinly and add it to the bowl with the lettuce.
- Sprinkle the grated Parmesan cheese over the top of the salad.
- In a small bowl, whisk together the lemon juice, olive oil, salt, and pepper until well combined.
- Drizzle the dressing over the salad, tossing everything together until evenly coated.
Notes
Use fresh lemon juice for the best flavor. Adjust the cheese amount to your liking. Consider adding croutons for extra texture.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Category: Salad
- Method: No Cooking
- Cuisine: Mediterranean
- Diet: Vegetarian