Lemon Pepper Parmesan Cream Dressing over Chopped Romaine
This delightful Lemon Pepper Parmesan Cream Dressing is the perfect accompaniment to crisp Romaine lettuce. Inspired by classic flavors and recommended by MTDavids, this recipe brings a burst of zesty lemon combined with the richness of Parmesan cheese. Each bite offers a harmonious blend of creamy, tangy, and peppery notes that will elevate any salad. Perfect for a fresh lunch or as a side dish at dinner, this easy-to-make dressing brings together the vibrant tastes of New England and Italy. Enjoy the freshness and simplicity with every serving!
N/A
Servings
N/A
Calories
7
Ingredients
Ingredients
Mayonnaise
3 tablespoons (heaping)
Lemon
1 (juice and zest)
Coarse black pepper
1 teaspoon (to taste)
Extra virgin olive oil
3 tablespoons (for emulsifying the dressing)
Parmesan cheese
1/2 cup (grated)
Salt
1 pinch (to taste)
Romaine lettuce hearts
3 (chopped)
Instructions
1
In a mixing bowl, begin by combining the heaping tablespoons of mayonnaise with the zest and juice of one lemon. Whisk together until smooth.
2
Add in the coarse black pepper and continue to whisk the mixture.
3
Slowly drizzle in the extra virgin olive oil while whisking to ensure a well-emulsified dressing.
4
Once the oil is fully incorporated, switch to a spoon or rubber spatula and gently fold in the grated Parmesan cheese along with a pinch of salt. Mix until well combined.
5
Chop the Romaine lettuce hearts into bite-sized pieces, around 2 inches each.
6
In a large salad bowl, place the chopped Romaine and generously drizzle the creamy Lemon Pepper Parmesan dressing over the top.
7
Toss gently to combine all ingredients and serve immediately for optimal freshness. Enjoy your refreshing salad!
Nutrition Information
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the primary lettuce used in this recipe?
The recipe uses 3 chopped Romaine lettuce hearts as the base for the salad.
What are the main flavor profiles of the Lemon Pepper Parmesan Cream Dressing?
The dressing offers a harmonious blend of creamy, tangy, zesty, and peppery notes.
How much mayonnaise is needed for the dressing?
The recipe calls for 3 heaping tablespoons of mayonnaise.
Which parts of the lemon are used in this recipe?
Both the juice and the zest of one lemon are used to create the zesty flavor.
How much Parmesan cheese is included in the dressing?
The dressing contains 1/2 cup of grated Parmesan cheese.
What type of oil is recommended for emulsifying the dressing?
Extra virgin olive oil is used, specifically 3 tablespoons.
How should the Romaine lettuce be prepared?
The Romaine hearts should be chopped into bite-sized pieces, roughly 2 inches each.
What kind of pepper is best for this recipe?
The recipe specifies using 1 teaspoon of coarse black pepper, which can be adjusted to taste.
What is the first step in making the dressing?
The first step is to whisk the heaping tablespoons of mayonnaise with the lemon zest and juice until smooth.
How is the olive oil incorporated into the dressing?
The oil should be drizzled in slowly while whisking to ensure the dressing becomes well-emulsified.
When should the Parmesan cheese be added to the mixture?
The cheese should be folded in with a spoon or rubber spatula once the oil is fully incorporated.
Is salt included in this dressing recipe?
Yes, a pinch of salt is added to taste along with the Parmesan cheese.
How many ingredients are required for this recipe?
There are 7 total ingredients: mayonnaise, lemon, black pepper, olive oil, Parmesan, salt, and Romaine hearts.
Is this salad suitable for a side dish or a main meal?
It is perfect as a fresh lunch or as a side dish at dinner.
What culinary traditions inspired this recipe?
This recipe combines the vibrant tastes of New England and Italy.
Who recommended the flavor combination for this dressing?
The recipe's flavor combination was inspired by classic tastes and recommended by MTDavids.
Should the salad be served immediately?
Yes, for optimal freshness, you should toss the ingredients and serve the salad immediately.
Can I use a food processor for this dressing?
While you could, the instructions suggest using a mixing bowl and a whisk for the best texture.
Is this a quick recipe to prepare?
Yes, it is tagged as an easy recipe and a 30-minute meal option.
What makes the dressing 'creamy'?
The combination of mayonnaise, emulsified olive oil, and grated Parmesan cheese creates the creamy texture.
Is the lemon juice fresh or bottled?
The recipe calls for the juice and zest of one lemon, implying fresh lemon is used.
How should I mix the cheese into the dressing?
Switch from a whisk to a spoon or rubber spatula to gently fold in the cheese.
What is the preparation style for the mayonnaise?
The recipe specifies using 'heaping' tablespoons of mayonnaise.
Can I adjust the amount of pepper used?
Yes, the 1 teaspoon of coarse black pepper is suggested but can be adjusted to taste.
Does this recipe include any sugar?
No, there is no sugar listed in the ingredients for this savory dressing.
What is the texture of the black pepper?
The recipe specifically calls for 'coarse' black pepper for a better bite.
What category does this recipe fall into?
It is categorized as a salad with a creamy lemon pepper dressing.
Are there any specific serving sizes provided?
No specific serving size or calorie count is provided in the recipe details.
Is the Parmesan cheese grated or shredded?
The recipe specifically requests 1/2 cup of grated Parmesan cheese.
What container should I use for tossing the salad?
A large salad bowl is recommended for combining the Romaine and the dressing.