Nana’s Crunchy Lemon Parmesan Salad is a refreshing mix of fresh greens, crispy veggies, and zesty lemon. Topped with shavings of rich Parmesan, it’s a salad that really shines!
Every bite feels like a crunch party. I love how simple it is to whip up, making it perfect for sunny days or when you’re trying to impress guests without breaking a sweat!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Romaine Lettuce: This is the backbone of the salad. Romaine is crunchy and holds up well with the dressing. If you can’t find romaine, try using kale or a mix of leafy greens for a different texture.
Cherry Tomatoes: Their sweetness adds freshness. If they’re out of season, you can use halved grape tomatoes or even diced cucumbers for a different crunch.
Croutons: Homemade croutons are a delicious touch, but store-bought works just fine for convenience. If gluten-free, look for gluten-free croutons or roasted chickpeas for a crunchy alternative.
Parmesan Cheese: Grated and shaved Parmesan brings salty richness. For a vegan option, you can use nutritional yeast or a dairy-free Parmesan substitute.
Lemon: It adds a bright zing. If you’re out of lemons, lime juice can work, though the flavor will differ slightly. I prefer the fresh zest as it enhances the lemon flavor throughout.
How Do I Make Sure My Salad Dressing is Perfectly Emulsified?
Emulsifying the dressing is key for a well-coated salad. The goal is to blend the oil and lemon juice so they don’t separate. Here’s how:
- Start by whisking the lemon juice, zest, Dijon mustard, garlic, salt, and pepper together in a bowl.
- Slowly drizzle in the olive oil while whisking continuously. This helps to combine the ingredients smoothly.
- Whisk until the dressing thickens slightly. It should have a creamy texture.
- Feel free to adjust the seasoning after mixing. Everyone’s taste is different!
Using a jar to shake the ingredients together is also a quick and easy way to emulsify if you prefer that method.
Nana’s Crunchy Lemon Parmesan Salad
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Fresh Ingredients:
- 1 large head of romaine lettuce, chopped
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
Crispy Elements:
- 1/2 cup croutons (homemade or store-bought)
Cheese:
- 1/3 cup grated Parmesan cheese, plus extra for shaving
Dressing:
- 1 lemon, zested and juiced
- 2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This salad takes about 10 minutes to prepare. You’ll spend a few minutes chopping veggies, mixing up the dressing, and tossing everything together. It’s quick and perfect for a weeknight meal or a refreshing side dish!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Romaine:
Start by washing your romaine lettuce well to remove any dirt or grit. Dry it thoroughly, either by patting it with a paper towel or using a salad spinner. Once it’s clean, chop the lettuce into bite-sized pieces and place it in a big salad bowl.
2. Add Your Veggies:
Next, chop your cherry tomatoes in half and toss them into the bowl with the romaine. Add in the croutons; they will add great crunch to the salad!
3. Make the Dressing:
In a small bowl, mix together the lemon juice and zest, olive oil, Dijon mustard, minced garlic, salt, and black pepper. Whisk everything together until the dressing is well-blended and creamy.
4. Dress the Salad:
Drizzle the freshly made dressing over the salad. Use clean hands or a large spoon to toss everything gently so that the veggies and croutons are evenly coated with the dressing.
5. Add the Cheese:
Sprinkle the grated Parmesan cheese over the top of the salad. Give it a light toss to mix in some of the cheese, but leave some on top for presentation!
6. Garnish and Serve:
Use a vegetable peeler to shave some extra Parmesan over the salad for a lovely finish. Taste the salad and add a bit of extra salt or pepper if needed. Serve immediately for the freshest and crunchiest experience!
Enjoy Nana’s zesty, crunchy Lemon Parmesan Salad—perfect as a side dish or a light meal! You can personalize it with your favorite proteins like grilled chicken or chickpeas for added nutrition.
Can I Use Other Greens Besides Romaine?
Absolutely! If you’re not a fan of romaine, arugula, spinach, or mixed greens work wonderfully as substitutes. Just ensure they’re fresh for the best flavor and texture!
How Can I Make This Salad Vegan?
To make this salad vegan, simply omit the Parmesan cheese or use a vegan cheese alternative. Additionally, make sure the croutons are also vegan-friendly.
Can I Make the Dressing in Advance?
Yes! You can prepare the dressing a day ahead and store it in the fridge. Just give it a good shake or whisk before using it, as it may separate while sitting.
What Should I Do with Leftover Salad?
Leftover salad can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to a day, but be aware that the croutons may lose their crunch. To keep them crispy, consider storing them separately and adding them just before serving!
