Garden-Fresh Parmesan Bliss Salad
Discover the vibrant flavors of summer in every bite of our Garden-Fresh Parmesan Bliss Salad! Inspired by a delightful dish from a favorite restaurant, I've crafted this lighter and fresher version that’s sure to impress even the most skeptical salad lovers. With the rich creaminess of fresh parmesan, the bright acidity of lemon juice, and fragrant basil, this salad is not only a feast for the palate but also a joyful experience. Perfect for a sunny day, it's crafted with fresh romaine lettuce and cherry tomatoes, making it a delightful addition to any meal. Trust me, with this easy-to-make salad, everyone—yes, even your anti-salad partner—will be asking for more!
2
Servings
175
Calories
6
Ingredients
Ingredients
Fresh Parmesan Cheese
4 (tablespoons, grated)
Olive Oil
1 (tablespoon)
Fresh Lemon Juice
2 (tablespoons)
Fresh Basil
2 (tablespoons, chopped)
Cherry Tomatoes
8 (whole, halved)
Romaine Lettuce
4 (cups, torn or chopped)
Instructions
1
In a small bowl, combine the fresh parmesan cheese, chopped basil, olive oil, and lemon juice. Whisk together until well blended to create a flavorful dressing.
2
Rinse the cherry tomatoes and romaine lettuce under cool water to remove any dirt or residues.
3
On a cutting board, tear or chop the romaine into bite-sized pieces. Place them in a large mixing bowl.
4
Halve each cherry tomato and add them to the bowl with the romaine.
5
Pour the prepared dressing over the salad ingredients and gently toss to ensure everything is evenly coated.
6
Serve immediately for the freshest taste and enjoy every crispy, tangy bite!
Nutrition Information
12.5g
Fat
10g
Carbs
6g
Protein
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Garden-Fresh Parmesan Bliss Salad?
It is a vibrant summer salad featuring romaine lettuce, cherry tomatoes, and a fresh parmesan lemon dressing inspired by restaurant-style dishes.
Is this salad vegetarian?
Yes, the recipe is specifically tagged as vegetarian and contains no meat products.
How many servings does this recipe make?
This recipe is designed to yield 2 servings.
What are the main ingredients?
The main ingredients include romaine lettuce, cherry tomatoes, fresh parmesan cheese, olive oil, lemon juice, and fresh basil.
How many calories are in one serving?
Each serving contains approximately 175 calories.
Is this recipe easy to make?
Yes, it is categorized as an easy recipe and a quick meal perfect for beginners.
Can I use a different type of lettuce?
While romaine provides the best crunch, you can substitute it with spinach, kale, or mixed greens if preferred.
How do I make the dressing?
Whisk together the fresh parmesan cheese, chopped basil, olive oil, and lemon juice in a small bowl until well blended.
Can I add protein like chicken?
Yes, adding grilled chicken, shrimp, or chickpeas would complement the parmesan and lemon flavors well.
Is this salad gluten-free?
Based on the ingredients listed, this recipe is naturally gluten-free.
How long does it take to prepare?
It is a quick meal that can be prepared in just a few minutes of chopping and whisking.
Can I make this salad ahead of time?
It is best served immediately to maintain crispness, but you can prep the dressing and vegetables separately in advance.
What kind of tomatoes should I use?
The recipe specifically calls for 8 cherry tomatoes, halved.
Can I substitute the lemon juice?
Lime juice or a light white wine vinegar can be used as an alternative to provide the necessary acidity.
Is there a dairy-free alternative for the parmesan?
You can use a vegan parmesan substitute or nutritional yeast to make the salad dairy-free.
How much fat is in this salad?
There is approximately 12.5g of fat per serving.
Are there many carbohydrates in this dish?
This salad is relatively low in carbohydrates, containing about 10g per serving.
What makes this salad 'blissful'?
The combination of creamy parmesan, fragrant basil, and bright lemon acidity creates a joyful and refreshing flavor profile.
Can I add more vegetables?
Absolutely; cucumbers, bell peppers, or red onions would be great additions to this garden salad.
Is this recipe low in cholesterol?
Yes, this recipe is specifically tagged as a low cholesterol meal option.
How should I wash the romaine lettuce?
Rinse the romaine under cool water to remove any dirt or residues before tearing it into pieces.
Can I use dried basil instead of fresh?
Fresh basil is recommended for the best flavor, but you can use one-third the amount of dried basil if fresh is unavailable.
What is the best way to halve cherry tomatoes?
Use a sharp serrated knife to carefully slice them on a stable cutting board.
Does this salad need salt and pepper?
The parmesan cheese provides natural saltiness, but you can add a pinch of salt and cracked black pepper to taste.
Can I use bottled lemon juice?
Freshly squeezed lemon juice is preferred for the brightest flavor, but bottled juice works as a convenient alternative.
What size should the romaine lettuce pieces be?
Tear or chop the romaine into bite-sized pieces for the best eating experience.
Is this a good side dish for a BBQ?
Yes, its fresh and tangy profile makes it an excellent accompaniment to grilled meats and vegetables.
How much olive oil is used in the dressing?
The recipe requires 1 tablespoon of olive oil for the dressing mixture.
Can I double the recipe?
Yes, simply double all ingredient amounts to serve 4 people instead of 2.
Why should I serve it immediately?
Serving immediately ensures the lettuce stays crispy and prevents the dressing from making the salad soggy.