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Lemon Parmesan Salad Recipe

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4.3 from 65 reviews

A fresh and zesty Lemon Parmesan Salad featuring crisp romaine and iceberg lettuce tossed in a tangy lemon vinaigrette, enhanced with shallots and grated Parmesan cheese. This light and flavorful salad is perfect as a refreshing side or a quick healthy meal.

Ingredients

Vinaigrette Ingredients

  • 2 lemons, juiced
  • 1 lemon, zested
  • ¼ cup extra virgin olive oil
  • ¼ teaspoon coarse kosher salt
  • ¼ teaspoon ground black pepper
  • ¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)

Salad Ingredients

  • 2 romaine hearts, chopped
  • 3 cups iceberg lettuce, chopped
  • 1 cup Parmesan cheese, grated or shredded (reserve 2 tablespoons for topping)
  • 2 shallots, sliced
  • ½ teaspoon cracked black pepper

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Vinaigrette: In a bowl, combine the lemon juice, lemon zest, extra virgin olive oil, kosher salt, ground black pepper, and red pepper flakes if using. Whisk thoroughly until the dressing is fully blended and emulsified.
  2. Prepare the Lettuce: Wash and dry the romaine hearts and iceberg lettuce thoroughly to ensure a crisp salad. Chop them as directed and place them into a large salad bowl.
  3. Add Cheese and Shallots: Add the grated or shredded Parmesan cheese and sliced shallots to the bowl with the lettuce, reserving 2 tablespoons of Parmesan cheese for garnish later.
  4. Toss the Salad: Pour the prepared vinaigrette over the salad ingredients and toss gently but thoroughly until every leaf is coated with the dressing and ingredients are well combined.
  5. Finish and Serve: Sprinkle the reserved 2 tablespoons of Parmesan cheese and cracked black pepper evenly over the top of the salad. Serve immediately to enjoy the fresh flavors and crisp texture.

Notes

  • Storage: Store the salad in an air-tight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days without dressing. Add the vinaigrette just before serving to keep the lettuce crisp.
  • Tip: For a less tangy dressing, add sugar 1 teaspoon at a time to the vinaigrette and adjust to taste.
  • Once dressed, the salad should be served promptly as the lettuce will wilt quickly.