25 Lettuce Salad Recipes That Will Make You Love Eating Greens
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These fresh and delicious lettuce salad recipes will have you looking at greens in a whole new way! From simple Greek salads to mouthwatering lettuce wraps, these light bites will make healthy eating a total breeze.
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If you’re trying to jazz up your salad game but have no idea where to start – I’ve got your back.
These creative lettuce salad recipes are perfect as side dishes or main courses, and they’re loaded with fresh veggies and hearty proteins!
Plus, you’ll be able to top things off with tangy, zesty, and zingy dressings that completely change the flavor game.
Pair them with soups and curries to bulk up your dinner, or pack them in bento boxes for a bit of meal prep madness!
Anything goes when greens taste this good.
Is Lettuce Salad Good For You?
A lettuce salad is an easy way to work vitamins and minerals into your diet (while adding a bunch of antioxidants to the mix!).
Lettuce is naturally low in calories and high in fiber and contains crucial nutrients like vitamins A, C, and K and plenty of minerals such as potassium, calcium, and magnesium.
But be mindful of what other ingredients you add to your salad. For example, adding a lot of high-calorie toppings such as cheese or store-bought salad dressing can significantly increase the calorie count and bad fat content of the salad.
But if you only add fresh, nutrient-rich ingredients (like the one you’ll find in these recipes), lettuce salad is an incredibly healthy addition to your plate.
What Is the Best Lettuce For Salads?
The best lettuce to use for salads is a hardy option like romaine, radicchio, and iceberg.
As these lettuces are usually crunchy and hold onto dressings well, they’re ideal choices for most salad recipes!
And for more tips on how to store lettuce, jump to the end of the article!
The Best Lettuce Salad Recipes You'll Ever Eat
Simple Lettuce Salad (That Tastes Amazing)
This easy lettuce salad is my go-to when I simply can’t face the kitchen.
It’s loaded with heart and red leaf lettuce for a very crispy texture. Plus, the combination of saltiness from the parmesan and the heat you get from the red pepper flakes is sublime.
And don’t worry if you think it sounds too simple.
The lemon and honey dressing instantly lifts this salad with sweetness, zest, and a herby kick!
Authentic Italian Salad Recipe
This authentic Italian salad recipe is loaded with fresh vegetables, and I always whip it up when I want a taste of home!
The arugula adds a peppery flavor to the salad, which is beautifully balanced by the fresh mozzarella, black olives, and cherry tomatoes.
It might look basic, but it packs a surprising punch with plenty of oleic acids, minerals, and vitamins in every bite!
Maroulosalata (Greek Lettuce Salad)
When I’m not feeling a simple potato salad or Tuscan-inspired Panzanella, I’ll whip out this dreamy Maroulosalata.
It’s a great way to hit your 5-a-day as it’s loaded with romaine lettuce, bright green onions, and fragrant fresh dill.
Pair it with a delicious sandwich or creamy red pepper pasta for a well-balanced meal that you can’t beat!
Greek Salad with Lettuce
There’s nothing better than a tangy Greek salad made with rich black olives and sharp feta cheese.
The crunchy romaine lettuce bulks things out while adding magnesium, calcium, and potassium.
But the star of the show here is the delicious salad dressing made with fruity olive oil, oregano, and a squeeze of lemon juice.
Caesar Salad
Who can say no to a classic Caesar salad?
This old-school recipe combines crunchy croutons, crisp veggies, and a gorgeous tangy dressing for the perfect light lunch.
Toss a few slithers of shaved pecorino or parmesan cheese over the top for extra nuttiness!
Garden Salad Lettuce Wraps
When I want to lighten up a traditional wrap, I’ll swap classic tortillas for a few romaine leaves!
These refreshing wraps are ideal for those scorching summer days thanks to the crunchy cucumber, sparkling red onion, and juicy tomatoes.
But don't worry – you get a serious hit of protein from the chickpeas and the generous layer of hummus!
Southwestern Salad Hatch with Chile Cashew Dressing
If you’re on the hunt for vegan salads that are seriously satisfying, you’ll adore this Southwestern gem!
Not only do you get a dose of protein from the black beans, but the creamy avocado works perfectly with the spicy dressing!
Trust me, this one always gets nods of approval from around the dinner table.
Springtime Basil Chicken Lettuce Wraps
I can’t get enough of fragrant Thai spices, and these chicken lettuce wraps are way lighter than the average green curry!
The chicken gets a glorious sweet flavor from the tangy pineapple. Plus, the crisp lettuce leaves won’t make you miss traditional wraps one bit!
Oh, and the savory sauce made from oyster, fish, and soy sauce? It’s just unbeatable!
Kale Mango Salad
This is the perfect side salad (or main course!) for days when you’re craving something fresh and summery!
The mango adds tons of sweetness and a soft texture, while the crisp base of lettuce, peppers, and cucumber keeps you satisfied.
Serve it with a bunch of marinated tofu or a bit of grilled chicken for the ultimate hunger-busting meal!
Salmon Lettuce Wraps
Who said that getting your daily dose of Omega-3s had to be bland and boring?
These low-carb lettuce wraps are topped with the most delicious flaky salmon that’s marinated in a fabulous herby mixture.
And as your fish is made in the air fryer, it’ll have a wonderfully crisp exterior that pairs so well with the creamy feta cheese.
Cajun Chicken Caesar Salad
Bring classic Cajun spices direct to your dinner table with this beautifully spiced Caesar salad!
I can’t get over the homemade salad dressing which is jazzed up with hearty Worcester sauce and Dijon mustard.
But it's the sweetcorn, tender chicken breast, and crunchy red onion that pull everything together!
Lettuce Egg Salad
Sometimes, you just want a quick, easy, and hassle-free salad to ring in those bright spring days.
This recipe gets a hit of healthy fat from the olive oil which is ideal for balancing your plate.
But don’t sleep on the sweet drizzle of honey and savory cloves of garlic that transform those leaves of gem lettuce!
Avocado Corn Tomato Salad
Who’d have thought that you could whip up a tasty and healthy meal in just 10 minutes?
This amazing romaine salad is topped with smooth avocado, vibrant cherry tomatoes, and sweetcorn.
The result? A fresh and hearty bowl of nutritious ingredients that’s ideal for summer BBQs!
If you’re looking for more, throw on some fresh basil or a few green onions for extra crunch and flavor.
Southwest Chickpea Salad
This protein-rich salad is a dream when you can’t be bothered to cook.
All you need to do is chop some veggies, crack open a can of cooked chickpeas, and break up some spicy tortilla chips!
Drizzle the easy-peasy avocado, cilantro, and lime dressing over your bowl for a serious hit of creamy goodness.
Shrimp Remoulade
If you can’t make it to New Orleans, this tasty shrimp roulade is as good as anything you’ll find in Louisiana.
Not only is the shrimp perfectly seared and tossed in a wonderful remoulade, but the fresh lettuce adds a bunch of crunch.
And don’t forget about that kick you get from the hot sauce and horseradish!
Grilled romaine Caesar Salad with Herbed White Beans
Fancy a change from classic bean chilis or green salads?
Consider the day saved with these grilled romaine leaves and white beans!
I love that this recipe is ready in under 30 minutes, but it’s the cashew and Dijon-based dressing that steals the show.
Oh, and did I mention that each loaded leaf is packed with protein and healthy fats? Exactly what we want from a good salad!
Grilled Salmon Caesar Salad
This hearty salmon recipe has all the creaminess of a traditional Caesar salad (without the added calories!).
The Greek yogurt and Worcester sauce are key to a light dressing, but you still get a savory flavor from the anchovy paste.
Finish things off with a few slices of avocado and a sprinkle of parmesan for a hint of indulgence!
Apple Gorgonzola Salad
I can never say no to a salad that blends sweet and savory flavors.
This salad gets so much crunchy goodness from the green apples and nuts, while the gorgonzola cheese adds creaminess.
While you're chowing down, keep an eye out for the tart cranberries and subtle zesty flavor from the mustard vinaigrette!
Bistro Salad
Forget that sneaky lunchtime trip to a local French bistro.
This light and bright salad lets you say “Bon Appetit” from the comfort of your kitchen!
It’s one of the best salad recipes to serve as an appetizer or dinner party side. But you can easily bulk things out with lean meats or a sprinkle of roasted chickpeas!
Trust me when I say that the tangy vinaigrette and fresh herbs will have you coming back for seconds!
Healthy Moroccan Greek Yogurt Salad
Rich Greek yogurt, Moroccan spices, and a huge hit of protein? Count me in!
This speedy lunchtime delight is ready in just 15 minutes, and it contains absolutely no mayo to keep things guilt-free.
I love mixing in pecans or edamame for extra texture.
But you can’t go wrong shoving the base recipe inside buns or lettuce wraps when you’re craving something hearty.
Green Spring Salad
If you’re on the hunt for spring dinner ideas that are packed with fresh greens, then you’ll love this recipe.
It combines mild butter lettuce with zucchini, petit pois, and tender asparagus spears.
And honestly, the mint dressing made with garlic, olive oil, and maple syrup takes this crisp green salad to new heights!
Vegetarian Taco Salad
Skip the spicy rice and indulgent sauces on Mexican night with this ridiculously simple veggie salad!
The fire-roasted corn and black beans add healthy carbs, while the fresh cilantro and salsa give the recipe a bright zing.
But the star of the show has to be the cilantro lime dressing that’s generously drizzled over the top!
Greek Goddess Chicken Lettuce Wraps
Whenever someone tells me that eating healthy is a bore, I quickly shut them down with these incredible chicken lettuce wraps.
It features kalamata olives and crunchy cucumbers if you’re a fan of different textures.
Plus, the moist chicken and basil-based sauce are bound to please your palate!
Serve your wraps with a portion of polenta fries or a cheeky slice of farinata if you’re a carb fiend (like me!).
Blue Cheese Salad Wedge Salad
I get that blue cheese isn’t everyone’s cup of tea, but this easy salad will convert even the fussiest eater!
The base is made with crisp iceberg lettuce, cherry tomatoes, and crumbled bacon for a slightly salty taste.
And when you pour over the mayo, blue cheese, and buttermilk-based dressing, you’ll truly be in lunchtime heaven.
Nuts About Berries Salad
Feeling fruity? Add some sweetness to your day with this vibrant berry salad!
The poppyseed dressing works amazingly with the candied almonds and fresh berries, while the green lettuce provides a crunchy base.
And hey – you can probably skip dessert as this recipe will satisfy even the strongest sweet tooth!
How to Store Lettuce
1. Keep it in the fridge
Yes, lettuce likes to chill out in the fridge. It’s true! Storing your lettuce in the fridge can help slow down its natural ripening process and keep it fresh and crisp for longer.
Plus, the enclosed environment in the fridge can also prevent harmful microorganisms from growing and damaging your lettuce. So, next time you bring home a bundle of fresh lettuce, make sure to tuck it away in the fridge to keep it at its best.
2. Keep it away from fruit
You’ll want to keep lettuce away from any fruit in the fridge (including tomatoes!) because of something called ethylene gas.
Most fruit releases this once it’s harvested, and can cause lettuce and other leafy veggies to ripen in the blink of an eye.
3. Don’t wash iceberg lettuce
Iceberg lettuce contains more moisture than most types of lettuce. So, you won’t want to add any moisture to the mix by washing it.
Simply store it in a perforated plastic bag or glass container.
4. Wash loose-leaf lettuce
When life gets hectic, having loose-leaf lettuce can be a total lifesaver in the kitchen!
But in order to keep it fresh for longer, it’s always a good idea to give it a quick rinse before storing it in the fridge (even if it comes pre-washed).
This quick rinse will remove any lingering dirt and grit and remove any organic contaminants.
5. Wash (or don’t!) romaine lettuce
Romaine lettuce is a bit of an outlier as it can be stored unwashed or washed.
In my book, it’s a good idea to wash it first, so you’ll have it ready for your meals throughout the week.
Dry it well, and store it in the crisper drawer of your fridge in a loosely closed plastic bag.
6. Use paper towels
This is one of my favorite tricks to keep lettuce fresh for longer!
Simply add one paper towel to the bag or container you use to store your lettuce.
Then, simply store the bag in a drawer of your fridge away from fruit and other veggies (see point 2) for up to 10 days.
This will help absorb excess moisture and will keep your lettuce fresh for much longer.
FAQ
Most lettuce can last in the fridge for up to 10 days if washed and stored properly.
If you’re dealing with head lettuce, you can get almost 3 weeks out of it!
Lettuce is usually served raw, but you can easily stir fry, grill, or braise it if you’re eating a hot dish!
You CAN freeze lettuce for up to 6 months. Simply remove any water with a paper towel and put your lettuce in an air-tight freezer bag.
Once frozen, thawed lettuce becomes watery and soggy. This is because lettuce is mostly water, and freezing can cause ice crystals to form within the leaves, which can lead to a limp and mushy texture once it’s thawed.
So obviously, you can’t use it for salads…But if you have too much lettuce, you can freeze it and use it for smoothies, soups, and stews.
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Have you tried any of these lettuce salad recipes? Let me know in the comments how much you liked it!
Lettuce Salad Recipes
Ingredients
- 2 hearts lettuce - romaine or butterhead
- 1 bundle red leaf lettuce
- Crushed red pepper flakes
- 1/2 cup finely grated parmesan
Dressing
- 1 lemon - zested and juiced
- 1 teaspoon honey - or maple syrup
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
- salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Chop the lettuce and wash it in icy water (this will help to crisp it up). Drain very well and pat dry.
- Mix the lemon juice and zest, extra virgin olive oil, salt, and pepper in a jar or small mixing bowl.
- Add the lettuce and the dressing to a large serving bowl and toss to combine.
- Add the grated Parmesan cheese and red pepper flakes (optional) and toss again.
- Serve immediately.
