Description

Crispy Parmesan Chopped Salad is a fresh, crunchy, easy recipe made with crisp romaine, shaved Parmesan, red onion, lemon dressing, and a little peppery heat. It is perfect as a quick lunch, healthy snack, simple side dish, or bright dinner idea when you want food ideas that feel light, flavorful, and ready fast.

Ingredients

2 large romaine hearts, chopped

1/2 small red onion, thinly sliced

3/4 cup shaved Parmesan cheese

2 tablespoons finely grated Parmesan cheese

1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil

2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice

1 teaspoon lemon zest

1 teaspoon Dijon mustard

1 small garlic clove, finely grated

1 teaspoon honey

1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes

1/4 teaspoon black pepper

1/4 teaspoon kosher salt

1/2 cup toasted breadcrumbs or crushed croutons, optional

Instructions

1. Wash the romaine hearts, dry them very well, and chop them into bite-size pieces.

2. Thinly slice the red onion. For a milder flavor, soak it in cold water for 5 minutes, then drain and pat dry.

3. In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, lemon zest, Dijon mustard, grated garlic, honey, red pepper flakes, black pepper, salt, and finely grated Parmesan.

4. Add chopped romaine and red onion to a large mixing bowl.

5. Pour about three-quarters of the dressing over the salad and toss until evenly coated.

6. Add shaved Parmesan and toss gently again.

7. Taste and add more dressing if needed.

8. Finish with toasted breadcrumbs or crushed croutons, extra Parmesan, and more black pepper.

9. Serve immediately while the salad is crisp and cold.

Notes

Dry the romaine very well before chopping so the dressing clings instead of becoming watery.

Dress the salad right before serving to keep the lettuce crisp and fresh.

Use freshly shaved Parmesan from a block for the best salty, nutty flavor and texture.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 0 minutes
Category: Salad
Method: No-Cook
Cuisine: American

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 side salad
Calories: 215
Sugar: 3g
Sodium: 410mg
Fat: 18g
Saturated Fat: 5g
Unsaturated Fat: 12g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 8g
Fiber: 2g
Protein: 7g
Cholesterol: 15mg

Keywords: Crispy Parmesan Chopped Salad, chopped salad, Parmesan salad, romaine salad, easy salad recipe, quick lunch, healthy snack, dinner ideas, food ideas