Butter Lettuce Salad with Dijon-Tarragon Vinaigrette is a delightful and refreshing dish that combines the tender, mildly sweet leaves of butter lettuce with a zesty and aromatic vinaigrette. This salad is perfect as a light appetizer or as a side to complement a variety of main courses. Its simplicity allows the natural flavors to shine, while the dressing adds a sophisticated touch that elevates the dish.
Ingredients:
The salad primarily features butter lettuce, known for its soft, large leaves and a slightly sweet taste. This lettuce variety is ideal for salads where a delicate texture is desired. The recipe also includes additional ingredients like thinly sliced red onions, which provide a mild sharpness, and cherry tomatoes, adding a burst of color and sweetness.
Dijon-Tarragon Vinaigrette:
The star of the salad is the Dijon-tarragon vinaigrette. This dressing is made by whisking together Dijon mustard, which offers a tangy and slightly spicy flavor, with apple cider vinegar for acidity. Fresh tarragon, an herb with a unique anise-like aroma, is finely chopped and added to the mix. The vinaigrette is then emulsified with olive oil, which provides a smooth and rich texture. A pinch of salt and pepper is added for seasoning. This vinaigrette is not only flavorful but also aromatic, making it a perfect complement to the mild taste of the butter lettuce.
Assembly:
To assemble the salad, the butter lettuce leaves are gently torn into bite-sized pieces and placed in a large bowl. The red onion slices and cherry tomatoes are then added. The Dijon-tarragon vinaigrette is drizzled over the salad, and the ingredients are tossed gently to ensure that the leaves are evenly coated with the dressing. This prevents the delicate leaves from wilting or becoming soggy.
Serving Suggestions:
The Butter Lettuce Salad with Dijon-Tarragon Vinaigrette is best served immediately after tossing, to maintain the freshness and crispness of the lettuce. It can be garnished with additional herbs like chopped parsley or chives for an extra pop of color and flavor. This salad pairs wonderfully with grilled fish, chicken, or a vegetarian quiche, making it versatile for various dining occasions. Its light and refreshing qualities also make it a favored choice for spring and summer meals.
Overall, this salad is a celebration of simplicity and flavor, where each ingredient plays a crucial role in creating a harmonious and satisfying dish.
Butter Lettuce Salad with Dijon-Tarragon Vinaigrette Recipe | S2Recipes
Details Butter Lettuce Salad with Dijon-Tarragon Vinaigrette Recipes
Prep Time: 15 mins
Total Time: 15 mins
Servings: 6
Ingredients For Butter Lettuce Salad with Dijon-Tarragon Vinaigrette Recipes
3 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil
2 tablespoons white wine vinegar
2 tablespoons minced shallot
1/2 tablespoon Dijon mustard
1/2 tablespoon chopped fresh tarragon
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
1 (5- to 6-oz.) package butter lettuce, torn or chopped
1 cup sugar snap peas, halve on the bias
4 radishes, thinly sliced
Instructions: Butter Lettuce Salad with Dijon-Tarragon Vinaigrette Recipes
Step 1: For vinaigrette, shake together oil, vinegar, shallot, mustard, tarragon, salt, and pepper in a Mason jar until emulsified, about 30 seconds.
Step 2: Put lettuce, peas, and radishes in a serving bowl. Add vinaigrette; toss to coat.
TOP 5+ FAQ Butter Lettuce Salad with Dijon-Tarragon Vinaigrette Recipes
✅What are the health benefits of Butter Lettuce in the Butter Lettuce Salad with Dijon-Tarragon Vinaigrette Recipe?
Butter lettuce, featured in the Butter Lettuce Salad with Dijon-Tarragon Vinaigrette, is a nutritious leafy green, rich in vitamins A and K, which promote eye health and bone strength. Its high water content aids in hydration and digestion, making it an excellent choice for a healthy diet.
✅How does Dijon-Tarragon Vinaigrette enhance the flavor of the salad?
The Dijon-Tarragon Vinaigrette in the salad introduces a zesty and aromatic flavor. Dijon mustard adds a tangy depth, while tarragon brings a subtle hint of licorice. Together, they create a perfectly balanced dressing that complements the mild taste of butter lettuce, elevating the overall flavor profile of the dish.
✅What are some variations you can make to the Butter Lettuce Salad with Dijon-Tarragon Vinaigrette?
This salad is versatile and can be customized with various additions. Consider incorporating avocado for creaminess, toasted nuts for crunch, or fresh berries for a sweet contrast. Adding protein such as grilled chicken or tofu can transform it into a hearty meal. These variations cater to different taste preferences and dietary needs.
✅Is the Butter Lettuce Salad with Dijon-Tarragon Vinaigrette suitable for specific diets?
Yes, the salad is inherently gluten-free and vegetarian, making it suitable for those on specific dietary regimes. With minor adjustments, like omitting cheese or choosing a vegan dressing, it can easily be adapted to vegan or dairy-free diets as well, ensuring it can be enjoyed by a wide range of individuals.
✅How can you prepare the Dijon-Tarragon Vinaigrette at home?
Preparing Dijon-Tarragon Vinaigrette at home is simple. Combine Dijon mustard, chopped fresh tarragon, vinegar, olive oil, salt, and pepper. Whisk them together until emulsified. Adjust the ingredients to taste, and store any extra in the refrigerator for future use. Homemade vinaigrette offers freshness and the ability to control the ingredients used.
✅What makes Butter Lettuce a good choice for salads compared to other types of lettuce?
Butter lettuce stands out in salads due to its tender, sweet leaves and a buttery texture. Unlike other crisp lettuces, it has a delicate quality that pairs well with light dressings like Dijon-Tarragon Vinaigrette. Its ability to hold dressings without wilting makes it a preferred choice for elegant and refined salads.
✅Can the Butter Lettuce Salad with Dijon-Tarragon Vinaigrette be prepared in advance?
Yes, the salad can be prepped in advance. Wash and dry the lettuce and store it in the fridge. The vinaigrette can be made ahead and refrigerated. However, for optimal freshness and to prevent wilting, combine the lettuce with the dressing just before serving. This ensures the salad retains its crispness and flavor.
✅What is the nutritional profile of the Butter Lettuce Salad with Dijon-Tarragon Vinaigrette?
This salad is low in calories yet rich in nutrients. Butter lettuce provides vitamins and minerals, while the vinaigrette contributes healthy fats from olive oil. The overall nutritional profile is dependent on added ingredients, but generally, it's a light, healthful option that fits into a balanced diet.
