Looking for a quick and delightful salad that bursts with flavor? Look no further than this irresistible Parmesan Chopped Salad! Crisp, tangy, and rich in cheesy goodness, this refreshing salad is not only a feast for the eyes but also a perfect starter or side dish for any meal. Made with fresh romaine lettuce, sharp parmesan cheese, zesty lemon, and a hint of shallots, it’s a blend of textures and flavors that come together beautifully in just minutes. Plus, it’s incredibly versatile, allowing you to enjoy it with various proteins or as a light bite on its own.

What sets this Parmesan Chopped Salad apart is its simple yet robust ingredients that promise to hit all the right notes. The combination of bright, zesty lemon and the nutty flavor of parmesan cheese creates a dressing that elevates the salad to another level of deliciousness. With this recipe, you’ll find yourself preparing it again and again, whether for a casual lunch or an elegant dinner party. Plus, it’s a healthy option packed with fresh greens and fulfilling flavors, making it a win-win choice for any salad lover.

Why You’ll Love This Parmesan Chopped Salad

This Parmesan Chopped Salad is not only delightful but comes with several perks that make it a must-try.

Quick & Easy: It takes just minutes to prepare, making it great for busy weeknights or last-minute gatherings.
Fresh Ingredients: The salad features fresh romaine lettuce, ensuring a crunchy base and a clean taste.
Flavor Packed: The combo of lemon, shallots, and parmesan creates a tangy and savory dressing that complements the greens perfectly.
Versatile: You can serve it on its own or pair it with grilled chicken, seafood, or even as a side dish for pasta meals.
Healthy Option: Packed with greens and healthy fats from olive oil, it’s a nutritious addition to any meal.

Preparation Phase & Tools to Use

Before diving into this quick and refreshing salad, it’s important to prepare your kitchen and gather the necessary tools. Start by washing your produce—give the romaine lettuce a good rinse and dry it thoroughly to ensure the salad dressing adheres properly. For this recipe, you’ll need a sharp knife and cutting board for chopping, as well as a large mixing bowl for combining your ingredients. A small jar or bowl with a whisk is essential for mixing the dressing smoothly. Having everything prepped in advance will help streamline the cooking process and ensure you can whip up this salad without a hitch. Once your ingredients are prepped and your tools are ready, you’re set for a delicious culinary experience!

Ingredients

Gather the following fresh ingredients to create this tasty salad:

1–2 hearts of romaine lettuce, chopped
2 shallots, thinly sliced
2 lemons, zested and juiced
¼ cup extra virgin olive oil
½ tsp kosher salt and black pepper
¼ tsp crushed red chili flakes (optional)
1 cup finely grated Parmesan cheese

Instructions

Step 1: Prep the Lettuce

Start by rinsing the hearts of romaine lettuce under cool water to remove any dirt or impurities. Using a sharp knife, chop the romaine into bite-sized pieces. Consider drying the lettuce thoroughly using a salad spinner or towel to prevent the dressing from becoming diluted. This step ensures that each bite remains crisp and enjoyable.

Step 2: Build the Salad

In a large mixing bowl, combine the chopped romaine with the thinly sliced shallots and the fragrant lemon zest. The shallots add a delightful crunch and a subtle sharpness to the salad, which is complemented wonderfully by the zesty lemon. Grate fresh parmesan cheese and add it to the mixture; this will give the salad a delicious cheesy flavor that enhances each bite.

Step 3: Mix the Dressing

In a small jar or bowl, combine the freshly squeezed lemon juice, extra virgin olive oil, kosher salt, black pepper, and, if you’re feeling adventurous, a pinch of crushed red chili flakes for added heat. Whisk or shake the mixture well until all the ingredients are fully emulsified. The dressing should be tangy and flavorful, ready to elevate your salad!

Step 4: Toss and Serve

Drizzle the prepared dressing over the salad mixture. With clean hands or salad tongs, gently toss the salad to ensure that the ingredients are evenly coated. The key is to combine everything without bruising the lettuce. Serve immediately for the best texture and flavor; the freshness of each ingredient is what makes this salad truly outstanding.

Variations

Protein: Add grilled chicken, shrimp, or chickpeas for an extra boost of protein.
Vegetables: Incorporate other vegetables like cherry tomatoes, cucumbers, or bell peppers for added color and nutrients.
Spices: Experiment with different herbs such as basil or oregano to give the salad an Italian twist.

Cooking Notes

Make sure to use fresh lemons for the best flavor; bottled lemon juice won’t provide the same zesty kick.
Feel free to adjust the quantity of parmesan based on your taste preferences; more cheese yields a creamier finish.

Serving Suggestions

Pair this salad with a grilled fish or chicken for a complete meal.
Serve as a side dish alongside pasta for a great balance of flavors and textures.

Tips

For the best results, let the salad sit for a few minutes after tossing to let the flavors meld.
If preparing for a meal later, keep the dressing separate until serving to maintain crunchiness.

Prep Time, Cook Time, Total Time

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 0 minutes
Total Time: 10 minutes

Nutritional Information

Calories: Approximately 250 per serving
Protein: 6g
Sodium: 400mg

FAQs

Can I make the salad ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the chopped ingredients ahead of time, but it’s best to toss the salad with dressing just before serving to maintain the freshness of the greens.

What other types of lettuce can I use?

You can substitute romaine with other greens like kale, spinach, or arugula, depending on your taste preference.

Is this salad gluten-free?

Absolutely! All the ingredients in this salad are naturally gluten-free.

How can I make it vegan?

To create a vegan version, simply replace parmesan with a dairy-free cheese alternative or nutritional yeast for a similar cheesy flavor.

Conclusion

In conclusion, this Parmesan Chopped Salad offers a wonderfully refreshing and flavorful option for any meal. Its simple preparation and vibrant ingredients make it easy to whip up in no time. Whether you’re enjoying it as a light lunch, a side dish to accompany a hearty dinner, or a base for your favorite protein, this salad will keep you returning for more. Don’t hesitate to explore variations and make it your own. We hope you try this recipe and share your experience with us in the comments below or on social media. Your tastiest salad adventure awaits!