15-Minute Fresh Parmesan Garden Salad
Light and bright salad combining peppery romaine, sweet cherry tomatoes, and a tangy lemon-basil vinaigrette enriched with fresh Parmesan. The simplicity lets quality ingredients shine. Serve as a side dish or light lunch any day of the week. This version skips heavy dressings for a clean, herbaceous approach.
Ingredients
- 4 tablespoon parmesan cheese, fresh, finely grated
- 1 tablespoon olive oil, extra virgin
- 2 tablespoon lemon juice, fresh
- 2 tablespoon basil, fresh, roughly chopped
- 8 cherry tomatoes, whole
- 4 cup romaine lettuce, whole leaves
Instructions
- 1
Combine parmesan, basil, lemon juice, and olive oil in a small bowl to make dressing.
- 2
Rinse tomatoes and romaine lettuce under cool water.
- 3
Tear or chop romaine into bite-sized pieces.
- 4
Halve the cherry tomatoes.
- 5
Transfer romaine and tomatoes to a bowl.
- 6
Pour dressing over salad and toss until coated.
- 7
Serve immediately.
Tips
Grate Parmesan finely so it disperses evenly through dressing instead of clumping.
Tear romaine by hand rather than chopping to preserve delicate leaves and prevent bruising.
Good to Know
Store leftover undressed salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Keep dressing separate and toss just before serving.
Prepare dressing up to 1 day ahead. Wash and chop vegetables several hours in advance; store separately to prevent wilting.
Serve immediately after tossing to keep greens crisp. Pair with grilled chicken, fish, or bread for a more substantial meal.
Common Mistakes
Don't dress the salad too far in advance to avoid soggy, wilted greens.
Don't skip rinsing vegetables to remove any grit or debris.
Substitutions
Dairy-Free Swaps
General Alternatives
FAQ
Can I make this salad ahead of time?
Yes, prepare ingredients separately and store in the refrigerator. Keep dressing in a separate container and combine just before serving to maintain crispness.
What if I don't have fresh basil?
Substitute with fresh mint, oregano, or parsley in equal amounts. Dried basil works but use one-third the quantity, as its flavor concentrates when dried.
How long does this salad keep in the refrigerator?
Undressed salad stays fresh for up to 2 days when stored in an airtight container. Dressed salad should be eaten immediately to prevent wilting.