Ah, Nana’s Crunchy Lemon Parmesan Salad—this recipe is like a sunny hug on a plate! Anytime I whip this up, I’m instantly transported to my childhood, where I’d often help my Nana in the kitchen. Her laughter filled the air as she tossed salads like a pro, and we could never resist sneaking bits of the crispy lettuce or buttery Parmesan cheese. There’s just something about the zesty lemon paired with the rich cheese that makes this salad a total showstopper.
And let me tell you a little secret: it’s so simple to make that even my dog could probably do it (though I wouldn’t recommend it). Whether it’s a family gathering or just a simple weeknight dinner, this salad brings a refreshing twist to any meal, making it one of my go-to recipes!
What’s in Nana’s Crunchy Lemon Parmesan Salad?
Let’s break down the star players in this delicious salad:
Romaine Lettuce: The crisp base of our salad! I love romaine because it has that perfect crunch that pairs wonderfully with the creamy cheese and tangy dressing.
Parmesan Cheese: Freshly grated for that rich, nutty flavor. Trust me, freshly grated really makes a difference compared to the pre-packaged stuff—it’s like a flavor explosion in your mouth!
Lemon Juice: I always opt for freshly squeezed lemon juice. The vibrant acidity brightens the salad and balances out the creaminess of the Parmesan.
Olive Oil: A good quality extra virgin olive oil adds a smooth richness to the dressing. It’s like liquid gold in my kitchen!
Garlic Powder: A little sprinkle goes a long way! It adds that savory kick that ties all the flavors together.
Salt and Black Pepper: These are essential for seasoning. They help enhance all the flavors in the salad.
Croutons (optional): For a little bit of added crunch if you’re feeling fancy. Who doesn’t love a good crouton, right?
Is Nana’s Crunchy Lemon Parmesan Salad Good for You?
Oh, this salad isn’t just delicious; it’s got some solid health benefits too!
Romaine Lettuce: Packed with vitamins A and K, romaine helps support your vision and bone health. Plus, it’s extremely low in calories, so you can eat as much as you want without any guilt!
Parmesan Cheese: While it’s definitely a treat, Parmesan is also a good source of calcium. Just remember that it can be a bit high in sodium, so moderation is key, especially if you’re watching your salt intake.
Lemon Juice: This tangy superstar is loaded with vitamin C. It’s great for your immune system and has some super cool antioxidant properties.
Olive Oil: The heart-healthy fats in olive oil are fantastic for your overall health. They can help reduce inflammation and promote cardiovascular health.
All in all, this salad is a wholesome option as a side or a light meal!
Ingredients
– 1 head romaine lettuce, chopped
– 1/2 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
– 1/4 cup lemon juice (freshly squeezed)
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– Salt and black pepper to taste
– Optional: croutons for added crunch
**Servings:** This luscious salad serves about 4 people; perfect for sharing!
How to Make Nana’s Crunchy Lemon Parmesan Salad?
Get ready for this—the steps are as easy as pie:
1. In a large bowl, add the chopped romaine lettuce.
2. In a separate bowl, whisk together the lemon juice, olive oil, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper until everything is nicely blended.
3. Pour that delicious dressing over the romaine and toss it well to coat every leaf.
4. Gently sprinkle in the grated Parmesan cheese and toss again to combine. We want to keep that cheese fluffy and not clumpy!
5. If you fancy a little crunch, toss in some croutons on top. They’re optional but oh-so-good!
6. Serve this salad immediately and prepare for the compliments!
Crunching Up the Flavor!
Want to jazz it up a bit? Here are some fun ideas to make this salad your own:
– **Add Protein:** Toss in some grilled chicken or chickpeas for a heartier meal.
– **Veggie Power:** Try adding some cherry tomatoes or sliced cucumbers for extra freshness and color.
– **Herbal Twist:** Fresh herbs like basil or parsley can brighten the salad even more!
I can’t stress enough how delicious and refreshing Nana’s Crunchy Lemon Parmesan Salad is. Trust me, once you try it, you’ll be hooked! And please, I’d love to hear your thoughts—feel free to share your take on this recipe or any fun variations you come up with! Happy cooking, my friends! 🍽️
