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Lemon Parmesan Lettuce Salad Recipe

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4.3 from 9 reviews

A refreshing and zesty Lemon Parmesan Lettuce Salad featuring crisp romaine and red leaf lettuce, tangy lemon dressing, and rich parmesan cheese. Perfect as a light side dish or a simple, flavorful starter.

Ingredients

Lettuce

  • 1 to 2 hearts of romaine lettuce
  • 1 bundle red leaf lettuce

Salad Dressing and Seasoning

  • 2 shallots, thinly sliced
  • 2 lemons, zested and juiced
  • ¼ cup extra virgin olive oil
  • Kosher salt, to taste
  • Black pepper, to taste
  • Crushed red pepper flakes or Aleppo pepper, optional, to taste

Cheese

  • 1 cup finely grated parmesan cheese

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Lettuce: Chop the romaine and red leaf lettuce and place them in a salad spinner or a large bowl. Rinse thoroughly with cold water and drain well. Pat the lettuce dry with paper towels or, for extra crispness, wrap in paper towels and refrigerate briefly.
  2. Combine Ingredients: In a large bowl, add the dried lettuce, thinly sliced shallots, and lemon zest. This combination lays the fresh, aromatic base for the salad’s flavor.
  3. Dress the Salad: Season the lettuce mixture with kosher salt, freshly ground black pepper, freshly squeezed lemon juice, and extra virgin olive oil. Toss everything together gently but thoroughly to coat the leaves evenly.
  4. Add Cheese and Spice: Sprinkle the finely grated parmesan cheese over the salad along with optional crushed red pepper flakes or Aleppo pepper for a mild kick. Toss the salad once more to distribute the cheese and pepper flakes evenly.
  5. Serve: Plate the salad immediately to enjoy the crisp textures and vibrant flavors at their best.

Notes

  • Refrigerating the lettuce wrapped in paper towels before dressing helps to enhance crispiness.
  • Use Aleppo pepper instead of crushed red pepper flakes for a milder, more aromatic spiciness.
  • This salad is best served fresh to maintain the crunch of the lettuce and the zestiness of the lemon.
  • Adjust seasoning according to taste; lemon juice and salt can be increased for a brighter flavor.