Imagine a salad so crisp, vibrant, and bursting with flavor that it instantly transports you to a sun-drenched garden – welcome to the ultimate Butter Lettuce and Radish Salad with Fresh Spring Herbs! This isn't just another side dish; it's a culinary masterpiece that combines delicate butter lettuce, peppery radishes, and aromatic herbs in a symphony of taste and texture that will elevate any meal from ordinary to extraordinary. Whether you're a health-conscious foodie or simply looking to impress your dinner guests, this recipe is your secret weapon to creating restaurant-quality cuisine right in your own kitchen.
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: -
Total Time: 10 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 1 head butter lettuce, torn
- 1 cup radishes, thinly sliced
- 1/4 cup fresh dill, chopped
- 1/4 cup fresh chives, chopped
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Carefully wash the butter lettuce under cold running water, gently separating the leaves and patting them dry with clean paper towels to remove excess moisture.
- Tear the butter lettuce leaves into bite-sized pieces and arrange them in a large serving bowl, creating a light and airy base for the salad.
- Thoroughly rinse the radishes and use a sharp mandoline or very sharp knife to slice them into thin, translucent rounds, ensuring uniform and delicate cuts.
- Finely chop fresh dill and chives, releasing their aromatic oils and maximizing their flavor potential.
- In a separate small bowl, whisk together olive oil, fresh lemon juice, salt, and freshly ground black pepper to create a bright, zesty vinaigrette.
- Gently scatter the thinly sliced radishes over the torn butter lettuce leaves.
- Sprinkle the chopped dill and chives evenly across the salad, adding vibrant color and fresh herbal notes.
- Drizzle the prepared vinaigrette over the salad just before serving, ensuring a light and even coating.
- Toss the salad gently to distribute the herbs, radishes, and dressing without bruising the delicate lettuce leaves.
- Serve immediately at room temperature to enjoy the crisp textures and fresh flavors.
Tips
- Choose the freshest ingredients: Select crisp, unblemished butter lettuce and firm, bright radishes for the best flavor and texture.
- Knife and cutting technique matters: Use a sharp mandoline or very sharp knife to create paper-thin radish slices that are visually stunning and provide the perfect crunch.
- Herb handling: Chop herbs just before adding to the salad to preserve their essential oils and maximize flavor intensity.
- Dressing application: Drizzle the vinaigrette just before serving to prevent the delicate lettuce from wilting and maintain the salad's fresh, crisp texture.
- Temperature is key: Serve the salad at room temperature to allow the flavors to fully develop and the herbs to release their aromatic qualities.
- Customization tip: Feel free to experiment with additional herbs like parsley or tarragon to create your own unique flavor profile.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 80kcal
Carbohydrates: 3g
Protein: 1g
Fat: 7g
Saturated Fat: 1g
Cholesterol: 0mg
