When it comes to elegant and simple salads, this butter lettuce salad with a classic Dijon vinaigrette is hard to beat. Made with delicate butterhead lettuce, also known as Boston bibb or Bibb lettuce, and topped with a light vinaigrette dressing, this salad is both refreshing and satisfying. It’s perfect as a side dish for dinner parties or as a main dish salad when paired with a protein source like grilled chicken, steak or creamy avocado.
Why You’ll Love This Salad
Versatile and Customizable: You can add a variety of fresh herbs or even a pinch of lemon zest for an extra burst of flavor.
Simple Ingredients with Depth of Flavor: This salad highlights butterhead lettuce's mild taste and soft texture, pairing it with a tangy, flavorful vinaigrette.
Perfect Side Salad: The Dijon vinaigrette adds just the right balance of acidity and spice, making this the perfect addition to any meal.
Fresh and Quick: With a few fresh herbs and a quick whisk of ingredients, you have a salad ready in under 10 minutes.
I love making this salad when I make a dish on the heavier side, like a baked Mac and cheese. It balances it out pretty nicely. If you want a different salad, you can also try my Crispy Mexican taco bowl salad or now that you heard Mexican, you just want Mexican, then my Loaded Potato Taco Bowl will help you out 😉
Butter Lettuce Salad & Dijon Vinaigrette Ingredients
Full recipe, instructions, and photos at the end of this post
Dijon mustard: Helps emulsify the dressing and adds subtle tang without overpowering the greens.
Red wine vinegar: Brings sharp acidity that balances the richness of the olive oil; white wine vinegar works but is slightly lighter.
Shallot: Adds mild sweetness and depth without the bite of raw onion.
Extra virgin olive oil: The backbone of the vinaigrette, so use one you genuinely like the taste of. I dive into olive varieties and flavor differences in this detailed olive oil guide.
Kosher salt and black pepper: Essential for pulling the dressing together and enhancing the flavor of the lettuce.
Butterhead lettuce: Soft, delicate leaves that hold vinaigrette beautifully without feeling heavy.
Fresh parsley or herbs: Add freshness and a subtle lift to the salad.
Lemon zest (optional): Brightens the dressing and enhances the vinegar without adding more acidity.
Butter Lettuce Salad & Dijon Vinaigrette Instructions
Full recipe, instructions, and photos at the end of this post
Step 1: Rinse the butterhead lettuce in cold water, spin completely dry, and tear into bite-sized pieces, removing any tough outer leaves.
Step 2: Whisk together the Dijon, vinegar, and minced shallot until combined.
Step 3: Slowly stream in the olive oil while whisking until the dressing looks smooth and lightly thickened.
Step 4: Add salt and freshly ground black pepper, tasting to adjust as needed..
Step 5: Pour the vinaigrette over the lettuce and gently toss just until evenly coated.
Step 6: Sprinkle with fresh herbs and serve immediately while the leaves are crisp and delicate.
Variations and Serving Suggestions
Add a Touch of Sweet Flavor: A drizzle of balsamic vinegar or a touch of honey can add a nice contrast to the vinaigrette.
Add a Protein Source: For a main dish salad, serve with my Spatchcock Shawarma Chicken.
Different Lettuce Varieties: While butterhead lettuce offers a soft texture and mild flavor, you could also use other lettuce varieties, such as Bibb lettuce or baby greens.
FAQ
Can I make the vinaigrette in advance?
Yes, the vinaigrette can be made ahead and stored in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Just give it a quick whisk before using.
What’s the best way to wash butter lettuce?
Rinse in cold water and use a salad spinner or pat dry with paper towels. This ensures the leaves are clean and crisp.
Can I substitute the red wine vinegar?
White wine vinegar or apple cider vinegar are excellent substitutes for red wine vinegar. Each adds a slightly different, but delicious, flavor.
⭐️ Recipe
Butter Lettuce Salad & Dijon Vinaigrette
Ingredients
Vinaigrette Dressing
- 2 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- 2 tablespoon red wine vinegar or substitute with white wine vinegar
- 1 tablespoon minced shallot
- 3 tablespoon good quality extra virgin olive oil
- ¼ teaspoon kosher salt or more to taste
- ¼ teaspoon Freshly ground black pepper to taste
Salad
- 1 whole head of butterhead lettuce washed, dried, and torn into bite-sized pieces (use a salad spinner to ensure the leaves are dry)
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley or other fresh herbs
- Optional: a pinch of lemon zest for added brightness
Instructions
Prepare the Lettuce
- Start by rinsing the butterhead lettuce (also known as Boston Bibb) thoroughly in cold water. Use a salad spinner to dry the delicate leaves, then tear the inner leaves into bite-sized pieces, discarding any tough outer leaves. Place the lettuce in a large mixing bowl or salad bowl.
Make the Vinaigrette
- In a small bowl, whisk together the Dijon mustard, red wine vinegar (or apple cider vinegar for a slightly different flavor), and minced shallot. Gradually whisk in the olive oil until the dressing is emulsified and smooth. Season with a pinch of salt and freshly ground black pepper.
Toss the Salad
- Pour the vinaigrette dressing over the butter lettuce and gently toss to coat. For the best results, make sure the vinaigrette is at room temperature to allow the flavors to meld perfectly with the lettuce.
Add Fresh Herbs and Serve
- Sprinkle with freshly chopped parsley or your choice of fresh herbs. Serve immediately to enjoy the buttery texture of the lettuce with the bold, tangy dressing.
Holly says
I loved this simple salad.