This salad is a tasty twist with fresh greens, zesty lemon, and crispy Parmesan. It’s crunchy, refreshing, and super easy to whip up—perfect for lunch or dinner!
I love how the cheese adds that extra crunch. It’s like a little sunshine in a bowl! Serve it with a slice of bread, and you’re all set. 🌿🍋
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Romaine Lettuce: This leafy green is super crunchy and fresh. If you can’t find it, use any other crisp lettuce like iceberg or green leaf lettuce. Some people even enjoy spinach for a different twist!
Purple Cabbage: The purple cabbage adds a pop of color and additional crunch. If you’re out of it, feel free to skip it or swap it with green cabbage, which works just as well.
Parmesan Cheese: Freshly grated Parmesan gives the best flavor and texture. If you’re in a pinch, you can use Pecorino Romano for a sharper taste. For a dairy-free option, try using nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor.
Croutons: I love crunchy croutons in my salads! If you want to skip those, you can use toasted nuts like almonds or walnuts, which would add great texture. Store-bought croutons are a time-saver, too!
Lemon: Fresh lemon juice brightens this dish. If you’re out of fresh lemons, bottled lemon juice can work, but fresh is always best for the most zingy flavor.
How Do You Make Crunchy Parmesan Bites?
These crispy bites really elevate the salad by adding an extra crunch and depth of flavor. Here’s how to get them just right!
- First, preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
- On a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, place small mounds of grated Parmesan cheese about 2 inches apart.
- Flatten each mound slightly, and if you like, sprinkle some smoked paprika and garlic powder for added flavor.
- Bake them for 5-7 minutes until they’re golden brown. Keep an eye on them so they don’t burn!
- Let them cool completely, as they will crisp up even more once out of the oven. Enjoy!
Nana’s Crunchy Lemon Parmesan Salad
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Salad:
- 6 cups romaine lettuce, chopped
- 1/2 cup shredded purple cabbage (optional, for color and crunch)
- 1 lemon, thinly sliced
- 1/2 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 cup croutons or crunchy fried Parmesan bites (see instructions below)
For the Dressing:
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon lemon zest
- 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- Red chili flakes or cracked red pepper, for garnish (optional)
Time Needed:
This delightful salad will take about 15 minutes to prepare. If you’re making the crunchy Parmesan bites, add an additional 10 minutes for baking. Altogether, it’s a quick and easy dish perfect for any mealtime!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare Crunchy Parmesan Bites:
If you’re opting for extra crunch, start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). On a parchment-lined baking sheet, scoop out tablespoon-size mounds of grated Parmesan cheese, spacing them apart. Flatten each mound gently. Sprinkle a bit of smoked paprika and garlic powder on top for flavor. Bake in the oven for 5-7 minutes, or until they’re golden and crispy. Let them cool on the sheet as they will harden further. If you prefer, you can simply use store-bought croutons!
2. Make the Dressing:
In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, lemon zest, lemon juice, garlic powder, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Mix well until everything is combined and smooth!
3. Assemble the Salad:
In a large salad bowl, combine the chopped romaine lettuce and optional purple cabbage. Add in the thinly sliced lemon and gently toss to mix everything evenly.
4. Dress and Top:
Drizzle the prepared lemon dressing over the salad and toss to coat the greens thoroughly. Next, sprinkle the grated Parmesan cheese on top, followed by the crunchy Parmesan bites or croutons. For a little extra kick, feel free to add some cracked black pepper and red chili flakes if you like!
5. Serve and Enjoy:
Serve the salad immediately to enjoy its vibrant, fresh crunch and delicious lemony flavor. This salad is a fantastic option for a light lunch or as a side dish to complement your meal. Enjoy every bite!
Can I Use Other Types of Lettuce?
Absolutely! While romaine gives a great crunch, you can substitute it with any crisp lettuce such as iceberg or green leaf. If you’re feeling adventurous, try using kale or spinach for a different flavor profile!
Can I Prepare the Salad in Advance?
Yes, you can prep the salad in advance! However, it’s best to keep the dressing separate until you’re ready to serve to ensure the greens stay crisp. You can also chop the vegetables and store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to a day ahead.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover salad in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. Keep in mind that the croutons or Parmesan bites may lose their crunch, so it’s best to keep them separate and add them just before eating!
Can I Substitute the Parmesan Cheese?
Yes! You can use Pecorino Romano for a sharper flavor or nutritional yeast for a dairy-free option that provides a cheesy taste. Just adjust the amount to your liking, as the flavors can vary!
