Parmesan Chopped Salad

This Parmesan Chopped Salad is my go-to solution for elevating any meal with minimal effort. The combination of crisp romaine, savory cheese, and bright lemon creates a restaurant-quality side that comes together in minutes while impressing everyone at the table.

I first created this salad when hosting an impromptu dinner party and needed something fresh to complement a heavy pasta main. The guests raved so much about this simple side that it's now requested at every gathering I host.

Ingredients

• Romaine lettuce hearts provide the perfect crisp base and hold up well to the dressing without wilting
• Shallots add a mild onion flavor that's more elegant than regular onions
• Lemon zest and juice bring brightness and acidity that balances the rich cheese
• Olive oil creates the foundation for the dressing use a good quality one for best flavor
• Salt enhances all the flavors throughout the salad
• Black pepper adds subtle heat and complexity
• Garlic powder provides savory notes without the harshness of fresh garlic
• Parmesan cheese is the star ingredient bringing nutty salty depth
• Red pepper flakes add a pleasant heat that wakes up your palate

Step-by-Step Instructions

Prep the Lettuce

Slice romaine hearts into thin strips about half an inch wide. Make sure leaves are completely dry after washing to allow the dressing to cling properly. A salad spinner works wonders here, but paper towels work too if you don't have one.

Add Aromatics

Scatter the thinly sliced shallots and fresh lemon zest over the lettuce. The shallots should be sliced paper thin so they don't overwhelm any single bite, and the lemon zest should be finely grated to distribute the citrus oils throughout.

Create the Dressing

Combine lemon juice, olive oil, salt, pepper, and garlic powder in a small bowl or jar. Whisk vigorously until emulsified, about 30 seconds. The dressing should look slightly thickened and uniform in color when properly combined.

Dress the Salad

Pour the dressing evenly over the lettuce mixture. Use salad tongs or two large spoons to gently toss until every piece is lightly coated. Be careful not to over dress as this can make the lettuce soggy.

Add the Cheese and Spice

Sprinkle the grated parmesan cheese and red pepper flakes over the dressed salad. Toss again thoroughly to ensure even distribution of the cheese throughout the salad. The cheese should cling to the dressed lettuce creating a light coating on each piece.

Bookmark

The quality of your parmesan makes all the difference in this recipe. I once splurged on a chunk of aged Parmigiano-Reggiano for a special dinner, and the complex nutty flavor transformed this simple salad into something truly memorable. My guests still talk about that salad years later!

Make Ahead Options

This salad can be partially prepped in advance to save time before serving. Wash and chop the romaine up to 24 hours ahead, storing it in the refrigerator wrapped in paper towels inside a sealed container. The dressing can be mixed and stored in a jar for up to 3 days. Slice the shallots a few hours before serving and store them in cold water in the refrigerator to reduce their intensity. Just before serving, drain and pat dry the shallots, then assemble everything fresh for the best texture and flavor.

Perfect Pairings

This versatile salad complements a wide range of main dishes. It pairs beautifully with grilled meats like steak or chicken, creating a refreshing counterpoint to rich proteins. For a complete meal, serve alongside pasta dishes like spaghetti carbonara or lasagna where the bright acidity cuts through the richness. It also works wonderfully with pizza, roasted vegetables, or as part of an Italian-inspired antipasto spread with cured meats and cheeses.

Customization Ideas

The beauty of this salad lies in its adaptability. For added protein, top with grilled chicken, shrimp, or chickpeas. Incorporate seasonal vegetables like cherry tomatoes in summer, roasted butternut squash in fall, or blanched asparagus in spring. For texture, add toasted pine nuts, homemade croutons, or crispy pancetta. Switch up the cheese with pecorino romano for a sharper flavor or add some crumbled feta for a Mediterranean twist. The basic formula stays the same while allowing endless variations.

Recipe FAQs

→ How long does this parmesan chopped salad stay fresh?

Once dressed, this salad is best consumed within 2-3 hours. If you want to prepare ahead, keep the dressing separate from the lettuce and other ingredients, then combine just before serving.

→ Can I add protein to make this a complete meal?

Absolutely! Grilled chicken, shrimp, or chickpeas would complement the flavors beautifully. Simply add your protein of choice on top of the finished salad.

→ What can I substitute for romaine lettuce?

Kale, iceberg lettuce, or a spring mix would work well as alternatives. With kale, you might want to massage it first with a bit of the dressing to tenderize it.

→ Is there a dairy-free alternative to parmesan cheese?

You can use nutritional yeast for a similar savory flavor, or look for plant-based parmesan alternatives made from nuts. Toasted pine nuts or walnuts can also add a nice texture and flavor.

→ Can I make the dressing ahead of time?

Yes! The dressing can be made up to 3 days in advance and stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Just shake or whisk well before using.

→ How can I adjust the spice level?

To make it milder, reduce or omit the red pepper flakes. For more heat, increase the amount of red pepper flakes or add a dash of hot sauce to the dressing.