Lettuce Salad
This Lettuce Salad is an effortless way to get a side of greens on the table. Featuring crisp and crunchy lettuce tossed in a simple vinaigrette dressing, this recipe could not be easier.
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Dishes like this simple salad recipe are loaded with vitamins and minerals, making them the perfect choice for a nutritious side dish. Explore our other salad recipes like this Avocado Tuna Salad and this fresh and tasty Fattoush Salad. Check out all of our Salad Recipes for more inspiration.
Why You Will Love This Recipe
Ingredients
Find the complete ingredient list, with measurements, in the recipe card below.
- Lettuce – Our favorites include romaine lettuce and green leaf lettuce.
- Oil – Choose a neutral oil such as extra virgin olive oil or MCT Oil.
- Vinegar – Choose distilled white vinegar for a clean taste or white wine vinegar for a subtle fruity flavor.
- Salt – A pinch of fine sea salt brings out the best flavors in your ingredients.
- Pepper – We like using a couple of grinds of coarse black pepper for balance.
Equipment
- Chef’s Knife – We use a sharp 8-inch Victorinox chef’s knife for chopping our lettuce.
- Cutting Board – A wooden cutting board is a great, non-plastic alternative.
- Salad Spinner – This is a handy tool to have to make prepping salad much easier.
Instructions
Scroll to the recipe card at the bottom for the FULL recipe details.
Step 1
First, start by placing the head of lettuce on a cutting board.
Next, with a sharp chef’s knife, cut the lettuce lengthwise into thirds. Start by slicing down the center, and then make cuts in the middle of each side.
Step 2
Then, slice the lettuce crosswise into one-inch chunks, working towards the stem of the head of lettuce.
This creates bite-sized pieces perfect for a salad.
Step 3
Next, add the chopped lettuce to your salad spinner. Fill it with water and swish the lettuce around to remove any dirt or debris. We repeat this a couple of times to make sure it is squeaky clean.
Empty the water and spin it until it’s dry. Consider repeating the process 2-3 times to ensure it is totally dry.
Check out this post for how to wash your greens if you want to see the step-by-step process.
Expert tip! Drawing from my experience of making this salad almost daily for the last three years, I’ve learned that taking the time to wash and dry your lettuce thoroughly can make a significant difference in your salad’s overall quality and taste.
Step 4
Meanwhile, add the dressing ingredients to a small mason jar.
Shake the jar really well for 10-15 seconds to emulsify it.
Step 5
Finally, add the clean and spun dry lettuce to a bowl.
Pour the dressing overtop and toss the salad well to coat the leaves.
Substitutions
- You can also use Boston lettuce, kale, bibb, or iceberg lettuce.
- Use fresh lemon juice as a substitute for vinegar.
Recipe Variations
- Incorporate fresh herbs such as parsley, chives, or fresh dill for a burst of aromatic flavor.
- For a garden salad vibe, add a variety of chopped vegetables, including cherry tomatoes, cucumbers, and red onion.
- Add a tablespoon of freshly grated parmesan cheese and scatter a handful of croutons for some crunch.
- A teaspoon of minced garlic and/or Dijon mustard gives the simple dressing a flavor boost. Check out this Honey Mustard Vinaigrette Dressing recipe.
Serving Suggestions
- Enjoy as a simple side salad served alongside a main dish. Present it in a large salad bowl with serving tongs for a family-style side dish.
- Pair this green salad with grilled protein such as chicken or salmon for a satisfying, light meal.
- Drizzle with balsamic glaze for an extra touch of elegance and a pouch of sweetness.
This light salad is a perfect pairing with this super creamy and rich cajun shrimp fettuccine alfredo.
FAQS
Pre-packaged lettuce can be convenient, but be sure to check for freshness and quality. Rinse before use, and consider mixing with other fresh greens for added variety.
Yes, but we recommend storing the dressing separately from the lettuce salad if you make it beforehand.
Protein can be added with grilled chicken, shrimp, tofu, chickpeas, or beans. Nuts, seeds, and cheese are also great options.
Storage Tips
To Store: Line a bowl with a paper towel or a clean kitchen towel and place the clean lettuce leaves inside. Cover the lettuce with a damp paper towel or reusable paper towel. Place a lid on the bowl and place it in the fridge. Store for 1-3 days.
Store the dressing separately in the small mason jar and leave it at room temperature.
More Salad Recipes
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Lettuce Salad
Ingredients
For the salad
- 1 head romaine lettuce
For the dressing
- ¼ cup oil – we use MCT oil
- 1 tbsp vinegar – we use white wine vinegar
- ⅛ tsp fine sea salt
- ⅛ tsp cracked black pepper
Instructions
- First, start by placing the head of lettuce on a cutting board.
- Next, with a sharp chef's knife, cut the lettuce lengthwise into quarters. Start by slicing down the center, then make cuts in the middle of each side.
- Then, slice the lettuce crosswise into one-inch chunks, working towards the stem of the head of lettuce.
- Next, add the chopped lettuce to your salad spinner. Fill it with water and swish the lettuce around to remove any dirt or debris. We repeat this a couple of times to make sure it is squeaky clean.
- Meanwhile, add the dressing ingredients to a small mason jar. Shake the jar really well for 10-15 seconds to emulsify it.
- Finally, add the clean and spun dry lettuce to a bowl.
- Pour the dressing overtop and toss the salad well to coat the leaves.
Simple without all kinds of other stuff that my family won’t eat, just good lettuce and a great salad dressings. Love it!
Thanks Delaney! We love its simplicity too.