Butter Lettuce Salad & Dijon Vinaigrette

Fresh Caesar salad with romaine lettuce, creamy dressing, and parmesan cheese on a white plate.

Butter Lettuce Salad & Dijon Vinaigrette

When it comes to elegant and simple salads, this French 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 or creamy avocado.

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Course: Side Dish

Cuisine: French

Keyword: Salad

Prep Time: 10

Total Time: 10

Servings:

Calories: 101kcal

Author: Lola Jay

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 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

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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.

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