Description
Bright, crisp, and packed with flavor, this Crispy Parmesan Chopped Salad is a go-to for quick lunches, healthy snacks, or refreshing dinner ideas. With crunchy romaine lettuce, thinly sliced red onion, and both shaved and grated Parmesan cheese, this easy recipe is finished with a zesty lemon-garlic vinaigrette that ties it all together. Perfect as a stand-alone meal or as a side dish, it delivers satisfying texture and taste in every bite—ideal for anyone searching for easy dinner recipes, quick salads, or healthy lunch ideas.
Ingredients
2 large heads romaine lettuce, chopped
1/2 small red onion, thinly sliced
1/2 cup shaved Parmesan cheese
1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
1/4 teaspoon freshly cracked black pepper
1/2 teaspoon sea salt
3 tablespoons lemon juice (from 1 large lemon)
1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil
1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
1 clove garlic, finely minced or grated
Optional: croutons for added crunch
Instructions
1. Wash and dry romaine lettuce thoroughly, then chop into bite-sized pieces and place in a large salad bowl.
2. Thinly slice the red onion and add to the bowl with the lettuce.
3. In a separate bowl, whisk together lemon juice, olive oil, Dijon mustard, garlic, salt, and black pepper until emulsified.
4. Drizzle the dressing over the lettuce and onions.
5. Add grated Parmesan cheese and gently toss to coat all ingredients evenly.
6. Top with shaved Parmesan and red pepper flakes.
7. Add croutons if using and toss again lightly.
8. Serve immediately for maximum crunch and freshness.
Notes
Use freshly shaved and grated Parmesan for the best flavor and texture.
Dry the lettuce completely after washing to prevent sogginess.
Add protein like grilled chicken or chickpeas to turn it into a complete meal.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Category: Salad
- Method: No-cook
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bowl
- Calories: 210
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 420mg
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 13g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 7g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 6g
- Cholesterol: 10mg