Lemon Parmesan Lettuce Salad

Crisp romaine and red leaf lettuce tossed with lemon juice, olive oil, Parmesan cheese, and shallots. Light, refreshing, and easy Mediterranean-style salad for lunch or dinner.

Ingredients

• 1–2 hearts of romaine lettuce
• 1 bundle red leaf lettuce
• 2 shallots, thinly sliced
• Zest and juice of 2 lemons
• ¼ cup extra virgin olive oil
• Kosher salt and black pepper, to taste
• Crushed red pepper flakes or Aleppo pepper, optional
• 1 cup finely grated Parmesan cheese

Instructions

Prepare the Lettuce

1. Chop the romaine and red leaf lettuce. Place in a salad spinner or large bowl, rinse thoroughly, and drain well.
2. Pat the lettuce dry with paper towels. For extra crispiness, wrap in paper towels and refrigerate for 10–15 minutes.

Assemble the Salad

3. In a large bowl, combine the lettuce, thinly sliced shallots, and lemon zest.
4. Season with kosher salt, black pepper, lemon juice, and olive oil. Toss gently to coat evenly.

Finish and Serve

5. Sprinkle the Parmesan cheese and crushed red pepper flakes (if using) over the salad. Toss lightly once more.
6. Serve immediately as a refreshing side or light main dish.

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and easy salad with bright, zesty flavors.
• Crisp, fresh lettuce balanced with tangy lemon and rich Parmesan.
• Perfect for light lunches, weeknight dinners, or as a side for Mediterranean meals.
• Healthy and low-calorie while still flavorful.

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Tips

• Dry the lettuce thoroughly to prevent a soggy salad.
• Use freshly grated Parmesan for best flavor and texture.
• Adjust lemon juice and olive oil to taste for preferred acidity and richness.
• Toss gently to avoid bruising the delicate lettuce leaves.

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Variations and Substitutions

• Cheese: Swap Parmesan for Pecorino Romano or Asiago.
• Greens: Mix in arugula, butter lettuce, or spinach.
• Add-ins: Add toasted nuts, avocado slices, or cherry tomatoes for extra texture and flavor.
• Spices: Substitute red pepper flakes with a dash of smoked paprika or black pepper for a milder kick.

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FAQs

Can I make this salad ahead of time?
It’s best served immediately, but you can prep the lettuce and lemon dressing separately for up to a few hours in the fridge.

Can I use bottled lemon juice?
Fresh lemon juice is recommended for the best bright flavor, but bottled juice can be used in a pinch.

How do I keep the lettuce crisp?
After washing, spin and pat the lettuce dry thoroughly. Refrigerate wrapped in paper towels if not using immediately.

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Serving Suggestions

• Serve alongside grilled chicken, fish, or shrimp for a complete meal.
• Pair with roasted vegetables or Mediterranean dishes for a balanced plate.
• Add grilled bread or croutons for a Caesar-style twist.
• Drizzle with extra lemon juice and olive oil just before serving for a fresh finish.