Parmesan Salad

Parmesan Salad Recipe from Spain with Lettuce and Gouda Cheese

Region / culture: Spain | Preparation time: 15 minutes | Servings: 4

Introduction

Parmesan Salad is a delicious and refreshing dish that combines the flavors of fresh lettuce, savory cheeses, and a tangy balsamic vinaigrette. This salad is perfect for a light lunch or as a side dish for a dinner party.

History

The origins of Parmesan Salad can be traced back to Italy, where Parmesan cheese is a staple ingredient in many dishes. The combination of crisp lettuce, rich cheeses, and a simple vinaigrette has been a popular choice for Italian cooks for centuries.

Ingredients

How to prepare

Wash and sanitize the different types of lettuce using bicarbonate.
Chop the lettuce into medium-sized pieces.
Put the lettuce in a bowl and dress it with balsamic vinegar, olive oil, salt, pepper, and a small amount of sugar (mix the dressing separately).
Use a cheese grater to cut the two cheeses into thick shavings.
Place a scoop of olive oil ice cream on the plate.
Cover the serving dish with an ample amount of salad leaves.
Finally, arrange the cheese shavings around the salad.

Variations

Add grilled chicken or shrimp to make the salad more filling and protein-rich.
Substitute different types of cheeses, such as feta or goat cheese, for a unique flavor profile.
Use a different type of lettuce, such as arugula or spinach, for a different texture and taste.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Be sure to wash and sanitize the lettuce thoroughly to remove any dirt or bacteria.

- Use a cheese grater to cut the cheeses into thick shavings for a more visually appealing presentation.

- Dress the salad just before serving to prevent the lettuce from wilting.

- Serve the salad with a scoop of olive oil ice cream for a unique and refreshing twist.

Serving Suggestions

Serve Parmesan Salad as a light lunch with a side of crusty bread or as a refreshing side dish for grilled meats or seafood. Pair it with a glass of white wine for a complete meal.

Cooking Techniques

Be sure to chop the lettuce into bite-sized pieces for easy eating.

- Dress the salad just before serving to prevent the lettuce from wilting.

- Use a cheese grater to cut the cheeses into thick shavings for a more visually appealing presentation.

Ingredient Substitutions

Substitute white wine vinegar for balsamic vinegar for a lighter and less tangy dressing.

- Use any type of lettuce or mixed greens that you prefer for the salad base.

- Substitute honey or maple syrup for sugar in the dressing for a natural sweetener.

Make Ahead Tips

You can prepare the lettuce and dressing ahead of time and store them separately in the refrigerator until ready to serve.

- Wait to add the cheese shavings and ice cream until just before serving to prevent them from melting or becoming soggy.

Presentation Ideas

Arrange the cheese shavings in a decorative pattern on top of the salad for an elegant presentation. - Serve the salad in individual bowls or plates for a more refined dining experience. - Garnish the salad with fresh herbs or edible flowers for a pop of color and flavor.

Pairing Recommendations

Pair Parmesan Salad with a crisp white wine, such as Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio, for a refreshing and complementary drink.

- Serve the salad alongside grilled chicken, fish, or steak for a complete and satisfying meal.

- Enjoy the salad with a side of crusty bread or garlic bread for a more filling and hearty dish.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store any leftover Parmesan Salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 1-2 days.

- Do not freeze the salad, as the lettuce and dressing may become soggy when thawed.

- To reheat the salad, simply let it come to room temperature before serving, or enjoy it cold straight from the refrigerator.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

A serving of Parmesan Salad typically contains around 200-250 calories, making it a light and nutritious option for a meal or side dish.

Carbohydrates

The carbohydrates in Parmesan Salad come primarily from the lettuce and a small amount of sugar used in the dressing. This dish is a good source of fiber and provides a healthy dose of complex carbohydrates.

Fats

The fats in Parmesan Salad come from the olive oil, cheeses, and ice cream. While these ingredients do contain fats, they are mostly unsaturated fats, which are heart-healthy and provide essential nutrients for the body.

Proteins

The proteins in Parmesan Salad come from the cheeses, which are a good source of high-quality protein. This dish provides a satisfying amount of protein to help keep you feeling full and satisfied.

Vitamins and minerals

Parmesan Salad is rich in vitamins and minerals, including vitamin A, vitamin C, calcium, and iron. The fresh lettuce provides a good dose of antioxidants and essential nutrients to support overall health.

Alergens

Parmesan Salad contains dairy (cheeses) and may not be suitable for those with lactose intolerance or dairy allergies. Be sure to check for any allergens before serving this dish.

Summary

Overall, Parmesan Salad is a well-balanced dish that provides a good mix of carbohydrates, fats, proteins, vitamins, and minerals. It is a healthy and delicious option for a light meal or side dish.

Summary

Parmesan Salad is a delicious and nutritious dish that combines the flavors of fresh lettuce, savory cheeses, and a tangy balsamic vinaigrette. This salad is easy to make, versatile, and perfect for any occasion. Enjoy it as a light lunch, side dish, or appetizer for a complete and satisfying meal.

How did I get this recipe?

The first time I saw this recipe, I was immediately drawn to it. It was a hot summer day and I was visiting my dear friend Maria who lived in the countryside. As soon as I walked into her kitchen, the aroma of fresh herbs and garlic filled the air, making my mouth water.

Maria greeted me with a warm smile and a hug, inviting me to sit at the kitchen table while she prepared lunch. As she chopped vegetables and grated cheese, she began to tell me about a new salad recipe she had recently discovered – Parmesan Salad.

She explained that the recipe came from a cookbook that her grandmother had brought with her from Italy many years ago. It was a simple yet flavorful dish that combined crisp lettuce, juicy tomatoes, and crunchy croutons with a generous amount of grated Parmesan cheese.

I watched intently as Maria tossed the ingredients together in a large salad bowl, drizzling them with a tangy vinaigrette dressing made from olive oil, balsamic vinegar, and a secret blend of herbs and spices. The finished salad looked absolutely delicious, and I couldn't wait to try it.

As we sat down to eat, Maria explained to me the importance of using high-quality ingredients in Italian cooking. She told me that her grandmother always said that the key to a good dish was to start with the best ingredients and let their natural flavors shine through.

I took a bite of the Parmesan Salad and was instantly transported to a rustic farmhouse in the Italian countryside. The flavors were bold and vibrant, with the sharpness of the Parmesan cheese cutting through the acidity of the tomatoes and the richness of the dressing. It was a perfect balance of textures and flavors, and I knew that I had to learn how to make it myself.

Over the next few weeks, I visited Maria regularly to watch her make the Parmesan Salad and to jot down the recipe in my own handwriting. She patiently guided me through each step, showing me how to select the ripest tomatoes, how to make crispy croutons from day-old bread, and how to toss the salad with just the right amount of dressing.

As I practiced making the salad at home, I experimented with different ingredients and techniques, making small adjustments to suit my own taste. I added fresh herbs from my garden, roasted red peppers for a smoky flavor, and even tried using different types of cheese in place of the Parmesan.

After several attempts, I finally perfected my own version of the Parmesan Salad. It was a dish that was truly my own, a reflection of my love for cooking and my passion for creating delicious meals for my family and friends.

Now, whenever I make the Parmesan Salad, I think of Maria and her grandmother, and how their love for food and family has inspired me to become a better cook. I am proud to carry on their tradition and to share this recipe with others, passing down a taste of Italy from one generation to the next.