In a world of culinary delights, the Little Gem Salad with Buttermilk Dressing and Fresh Herbs stands out as a symphony of flavors and textures. This vibrant salad combines crisp Little Gem lettuces with a refreshing buttermilk dressing, creating a perfect balance of tanginess and creaminess.
The buttermilk dressing, a key component of this dish, is a blend of buttermilk, mayonnaise, sour cream, and an array of fresh herbs, including chives, dill, and parsley. This dressing adds a luscious richness to the salad, while the herbs infuse it with an aromatic freshness.
To complement the lettuces and dressing, the salad is adorned with a variety of toppings, including crumbled bacon, sliced hard-boiled eggs, and cherry tomatoes. These additions provide a delightful contrast in both texture and flavor, making each bite a unique experience.
In addition to the main recipe, the article presents a collection of variations that cater to diverse preferences. For those who prefer a vegetarian option, the bacon and eggs can be omitted, and the salad can be topped with roasted chickpeas or crumbled tofu instead.
For those seeking a gluten-free alternative, the croutons can be replaced with a sprinkle of toasted nuts or seeds. And for those who desire a spicy kick, a dash of cayenne pepper or a dollop of sriracha can be added to the dressing.
With its versatility and customizable nature, the Little Gem Salad with Buttermilk Dressing and Fresh Herbs is a culinary journey that promises to satisfy every palate.
BUTTERMILK-HERB DRESSING
This tangy dressing loaded with fresh herbs brings any salad to life.
Provided by Food Network Kitchen
Time 5m
Yield about 1 cup
Number Of Ingredients 4
Steps:
- Whisk together the mayonnaise, herbs and a generous pinch of salt in a small bowl. Whisk in the buttermilk and a couple turns of freshly ground black pepper until blended.
LITTLE GEM SALAD WITH BUTTERMILK CHAAS
Chaas is an Indian buttermilk beverage seasoned with mustard seeds, cumin seeds, curry leaves, and dried red chiles. Drizzle it over a mix of greens and you've got yourself a creamy salad dressing.
Provided by Tailor, Nashville, TN
Yield 8 servings
Number Of Ingredients 14
Steps:
- Pour buttermilk into a measuring glass or small bowl. Heat oil in a small saucepan or skillet over medium-high until shimmering. Add chiles, curry leaves, cumin seeds, and brown mustard seeds one at a time, pausing for a second between each addition and swirling pan. Cook until spices are toasted and curry leaves sizzle and pop, about 10 seconds (take care as oil will splatter!). Quickly pour spice oil into buttermilk; stir to combine. Taste chaas dressing and season with salt.
- Do Ahead: Dressing can be made 1 day ahead. Cover and chill.
- Soak radishes in a bowl of ice water until they curl, about 10 minutes. Drain and pat dry.
- Toss half of the radishes in a large bowl with lettuce, cucumber, peas, mint, and cilantro. Drizzle in dressing; toss to coat. Taste salad and season with salt if needed. Top with remaining radishes.
LITTLE GEM SALAD WITH BUTTERMILK DRESSING & FRESH HERBS
Number Of Ingredients 8
Steps:
- In a large bowl, toss all the ingredients until the salad is evenly coated in dressing. (Note that total of each herb is 1/4 cup plus 2 tablespoons.)
LITTLE GEM SALAD WITH GARLICKY ALMOND DRESSING
This tart, garlicky dressing is made with toasted almonds and sherry vinegar for a simple but delicious green salad. Little Gem lettuce, a cross between romaine and butter lettuce, has become justly popular for a crunchy salad. Crisp and bright green with small crinkly leaves, it won't immediately wilt when dressed. If unavailable, look for similar small sturdy heads of lettuce or choose hearts of romaine.
Provided by David Tanis
Categories salads and dressings, vegetables, side dish
Time 20m
Yield 4 to 6 servings
Number Of Ingredients 6
Steps:
- Remove wilted exterior leaves from each head of lettuce. Cut stems from the lettuce heads, separate leaves and swish in a large basin of cold water, letting any sand or dirt sink to the bottom. Lift the leaves from the water and transfer to a colander. Shake away excess water. Wrap in kitchen towels to dry or use a salad spinner.
- Make the dressing: Put almonds, vinegar and garlic in a small bowl. Whisk in the olive oil. Season with salt and pepper.
- Put leaves in a wide salad bowl. Sprinkle with a pinch of salt. Dress lightly just before serving, using 2 or 3 tablespoons of dressing and coating leaves well. Taste and add more dressing as necessary. Store any remaining dressing in refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Tips:
- Choose fresh, crisp Little Gem lettuces: Look for lettuces that are deep green in color and have tightly packed leaves.
- Use a sharp knife to slice the lettuces: This will help to prevent them from tearing.
- Don't overdress the salad: A little bit of dressing goes a long way.
- Add the herbs and nuts just before serving: This will help to keep them from wilting.
- Serve the salad immediately: Little Gem salads are best enjoyed fresh.
Conclusion:
Little Gem salads are a delicious and refreshing way to enjoy this unique lettuce. With its slightly bitter flavor and crisp texture, Little Gem lettuce is a perfect complement to a variety of dressings and toppings. Whether you're looking for a light lunch or a simple side dish, a Little Gem salad is sure to please. So next time you're at the grocery store, be sure to pick up a head of Little Gem lettuce and give this recipe a try.
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