Lettuce in a bowl with lemon slices, croutons and a bottle of lemon pepper parmesan off to the side.

Lemon Parmesan Romaine Salad

Category: Salad

Author: My Curated Tastes, Shawhan Farms

Servings: 2

Prep Time: 10 minutes

Cook Time: 3–5 minutes

This lemon Parmesan romaine salad keeps things crisp and balanced with fresh greens, a simple vinaigrette, and warm, seasoned croutons. The combination of citrus, Parmesan, and pepper brings brightness without overwhelming the base.

It works well as a light meal or alongside grilled proteins, pasta, or seafood.

Ingredients

Salad

  • 3 cups romaine lettuce, chopped
  • 1/2 cup Parmesan cheese, grated or shaved
  • 1 cup lemon pepper croutons (see below)
  • Zest of 1 lemon
  • Kosher salt and black pepper, to taste

Vinaigrette

  • 2 tbsp olive oil
  • Juice of 1 large lemon
  • 1/2 tsp Dijon mustard
  • 1/4 tsp kosher salt
  • Black pepper, to taste

Croutons

Directions

  1. Make croutons: Preheat broiler to high. Toss bread cubes with oil, seasoning, oregano, salt, and pepper. Spread on a baking sheet and broil for 3–5 minutes, tossing frequently, until golden. Let cool.
  2. Make vinaigrette: Whisk lemon juice, Dijon, salt, and pepper. Slowly drizzle in olive oil while whisking until combined.
  3. Assemble salad: In a bowl, combine romaine, Parmesan, lemon zest, salt, and pepper.
  4. Add vinaigrette and toss until evenly coated.
  5. Top with croutons just before serving and gently toss.
  6. Garnish with additional Parmesan if desired and serve immediately.

Recipe Notes

  • Add croutons just before serving to keep them crisp.
  • Adjust lemon and oil balance to taste.
  • Pairs well with grilled chicken, seafood, or pasta.

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