Butter Lettuce Salad

Looking to enhance your meals with a quick and versatile salad that perfectly complements any main course? Your search ends here! Introducing the Butter Lettuce Salad – a delightful addition to your culinary repertoire. Originally featured in the Paella Party menu, this simple yet flavorful salad steals the show, effortlessly fitting into any culinary occasion, from dinner parties to Shawarma celebrations.

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Butter Lettuce Salad Recipe

The Butter Lettuce Salad is not only incredibly tasty but also unbelievably easy to prepare. Crispy butter lettuce leaves and ripe avocados are the stars of this show, creating the perfect side salad that enhances the bold flavors of your main dishes.

Prep Time10 minutes mins

Cook Time5 minutes mins

Course: Salad, Side Dish

Cuisine: American

Diet: Vegan

Keyword: Butter Lettuce Salad

Servings: 6 people

Calories: 253kcal

Ingredients

• 3-4 heads of butter lettuce
• 1 bunch of fresh snipped chives
• 2 sliced avocados

Lemon Shallot Vinaigrette:

• 1 lemon juiced
• 3 tablespoons red wine vinegar
• 6 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 shallot finely minced
• 2 cloves garlic finely minced
• Kosher salt and freshly cracked black pepper to taste

Instructions

• Carefully trim the butter lettuce leaves from the heads, rinse well, and dry.
• Toss the full leaves, avocado slices, and snipped chives with the zesty lemon shallot vinaigrette.
• Serve the vibrant salad on a large platter, and you're ready to impress!

Notes

Feel free to experiment with different vinaigrettes – they last in the fridge for a week. Get creative and use up what you have to make this salad uniquely yours.

Nutrition Information:

• Calories: 253kcal
• Carbohydrates: 10g
• Protein: 3g
• Fat: 24g
• Saturated Fat: 3g
• Polyunsaturated Fat: 3g
• Monounsaturated Fat: 17g
• Sodium: 24mg
• Potassium: 567mg
• Fiber: 6g
• Sugar: 2g
• Vitamin A: 2830IU
• Vitamin C: 20mg
• Calcium: 46mg
• Iron: 2mg

Butter Lettuce Salad Variations:

1. Citrus Twist: Add a burst of citrusy freshness by incorporating segments of oranges or grapefruits into the salad. The citrus flavors complement the buttery lettuce beautifully.
2. Avocado Creaminess: Slice ripe avocados for a creamy texture and a dose of healthy fats. The smoothness of avocado pairs well with the tender crunch of butter lettuce.
3. Seeds for Texture: Sprinkle the salad with seeds like sunflower seeds or pumpkin seeds to add an extra layer of texture and a nutritional boost.
4. Grilled Vegetables: Include grilled vegetables such as asparagus, zucchini, or bell peppers to introduce a smoky, charred flavor to the salad.
5. Mango Tango: Combine the sweetness of mango with the crispness of butter lettuce for a tropical twist. The combination is both refreshing and satisfying.
6. Quinoa Boost: Make the salad more substantial by adding cooked quinoa. This not only adds protein but also contributes a nutty flavor and chewy texture.

Butter Lettuce Salad Serving Suggestions:

1. Pair with Grilled Proteins: Serve the butter lettuce salad alongside grilled chicken, fish, or steak for a well-rounded and satisfying meal.
2. Crusty Bread: Accompany the salad with crusty artisanal bread or a baguette to mop up any remaining dressing and to add a delightful crunch.
3. Soup Duo: Pair the salad with a light soup for a balanced and comforting lunch or dinner.
4. Summer Entertaining: This salad is perfect for summer gatherings, picnics, or barbecues, providing a refreshing contrast to heartier dishes.
5. Light Appetizer: Serve smaller portions as a light and elegant appetizer at dinner parties or special occasions.

Tips:

1. Freshness is Key: Use fresh, high-quality ingredients for the best flavor and texture.
2. Dress Just Before Serving: To prevent the lettuce from wilting, add the dressing just before serving.
3. Experiment with Dressings: Try different dressings like a honey-mustard vinaigrette or a creamy yogurt-based dressing to change up the flavor profile.
4. Season Thoughtfully: Taste the salad before serving and adjust the seasoning if needed. A pinch of salt or a squeeze of lemon can make a significant difference.
5. Serve Chilled: If possible, chill the salad ingredients before assembling to enhance the crispness and freshness.

A butter lettuce salad is a celebration of simplicity and the beauty of fresh, wholesome ingredients. Whether enjoyed as a light lunch, a side dish at dinner, or part of a festive spread, this salad is a versatile and elegant addition to any menu.