This refreshing salad is packed with crunchy greens and zesty lemon, all topped with a sprinkle of savory Parmesan cheese. It’s a perfect mix of bright flavors and textures!
I love how the lemon makes everything pop, and the crunchy bits keep every bite exciting. Serve it as a side dish, or enjoy it on its own—either way, it’s a winner! 🥗
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Mixed Greens: Romaine and baby greens form a lovely base. Feel free to mix in spinach, arugula, or any available greens. Each choice adds a unique flavor!
Lemon: Fresh lemon juice and zest add zing! If you don’t have fresh lemons, bottled juice is okay in a pinch, but fresh is always better for flavor.
Parmesan Cheese: Freshly grated Parmesan lends a rich flavor. If you need a substitute, Pecorino Romano works well. Nutritional yeast can also provide a cheesy taste if you’re dairy-free!
Croutons: Homemade croutons are easy and tasty, but store-bought croutons are fine too. For a gluten-free option, look for gluten-free bread.
How Do I Make This Salad Extra Crunchy?
To really bring a crunch to Nana’s salad, focus on the croutons and the fresh ingredients. Here’s how to ensure your salad is crunchy and fresh:
- For homemade croutons, use day-old bread for the best texture. Cut them into cubes and toss with olive oil, then bake until crispy!
- Toss the salad ingredients just before serving. This keeps the greens crisp and prevents them from wilting under the dressing.
- Consider adding other crunchy elements like sliced almonds or sunflower seeds for extra texture which also gives a nice nutty flavor.
- Ensure all produce is thoroughly dried after washing. Moisture can lead to sogginess.
These tips will help your salad shine on the table with its delightful crunch! Enjoy!”
How to Make Nana’s Crunchy Lemon Parmesan Salad
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Salad:
- 6 cups mixed romaine and baby greens (like romaine hearts, red leaf lettuce, etc.)
- 1 lemon, thinly sliced (use half for slices and half for juice and zest)
- 1/3 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese (plus extra for topping)
- 1 cup homemade or store-bought crunchy croutons
For the Dressing:
- 3 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
- 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
- 1 garlic clove, minced
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- 1 teaspoon honey or agave syrup (optional, for slight sweetness)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delightful salad takes about 15 minutes to prepare, plus time for baking homemade croutons if you choose to make those from scratch (about 10-12 minutes). You’ll have a fresh, crunchy salad ready in about 30 minutes!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Croutons:
If you’re making homemade croutons, start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). Cut your bread into 1-inch cubes, then toss them in a bowl with 1 tablespoon of olive oil, salt, pepper, and a pinch of garlic powder. Spread the cubes out on a baking sheet and bake for about 10-12 minutes or until they’re golden and crunchy. Once done, set them aside to cool!
2. Mix the Dressing:
In a small bowl, whisk together the fresh lemon juice, the rest of the olive oil (2 tablespoons), minced garlic, Dijon mustard, lemon zest (from half the lemon), honey (if you want a touch of sweetness), and a bit of salt and pepper. Keep mixing until it all comes together nicely.
3. Assemble the Salad:
In a large salad bowl, combine the mixed greens and toss in half of the lemon slices. Drizzle the dressing over the greens, then toss gently to make sure all the leaves are coated in that delicious dressing.
4. Add the Crunch!
Now it’s time to add those lovely croutons! Toss them in with the salad mixture carefully so that everything remains crunchy. Then sprinkle the freshly grated Parmesan cheese generously over the top.
5. Garnish and Serve:
Finish off your salad by garnishing with the remaining lemon slices and a few cracks of fresh black pepper. For the best taste and texture, serve this salad right away and enjoy its vibrant flavors!
This salad delivers a fantastic combination of crunchy greens, zesty lemon, and savory Parmesan that’s sure to brighten any meal! Enjoy Nana’s special recipe freshly tossed! 🌿🍋
Can I Use Different Greens for This Salad?
Absolutely! Feel free to mix and match your greens based on what you have. Spinach, arugula, or even kale would make great additions or substitutes for the mixed romaine and baby greens.
How Should I Store Leftover Salad?
If you have leftovers, store the salad in an airtight container in the fridge, but keep the croutons separate to maintain their crunch. Enjoy the greens within 1-2 days for the best quality!
Can I Make the Dressing Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can prepare the dressing in advance! Just whisk it up and store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to a week. Give it a good shake before using it to recombine any ingredients that may have settled.
What Can I Substitute for Parmesan Cheese?
If you’re looking for a substitute, Pecorino Romano is a great choice due to its similar flavor profile. For a dairy-free option, try using nutritional yeast for that cheesy taste!
