The Parmesan Chopped Salad Recipe is fresh, crunchy and full of flavor. It’s easy to make at home and perfect for any meal.
This salad combines crisp vegetables, savory Parmesan cheese and a light dressing for a tasty experience. Many people love it because it is healthy, satisfying and ready in minutes.
You do not need complicated ingredients to make this salad. Today, I will show how to make Parmesan Chopped Salad Recipe from scratch using simple steps.
My Experience With This Recipe
I first tried this salad for a family lunch. The fresh vegetables and crunchy croutons made it very appealing. Adding shaved Parmesan gave it a rich flavor.
The salad dressing was light but flavorful. Everyone enjoyed it and it was ready in just twenty minutes.
I liked how simple it was to chop all vegetables and toss them together. Since then, I make this salad often for lunch or dinner. It’s healthy, colorful and delicious every time.
Recipe Card info
- Recipe Name: Parmesan Chopped Salad
- Servings: 4 servings
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Total Time: 15 minutes
- Course: Salad / Side Dish
- Cuisine: American
- Calories: 220 kcal per serving
Equipment List
- Large mixing bowl
- Cutting board
- Sharp knife
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Salad tongs or wooden spoon
- Grater for Parmesan
Ingredients You Need for Parmesan Chopped Salad Recipe
- 4 cups romaine lettuce, chopped
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 cucumber, diced
- 1/2 red onion, finely chopped
- 1/2 cup shredded or shaved Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 cup croutons
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- Salt and black pepper to taste
Step-by-Step Guide
1. Prepare the Vegetables
Wash and chop the romaine lettuce. Dice cucumber and red onion. Halve the cherry tomatoes. Make sure all vegetables are clean and fresh.
2. Make the Dressing
In a small bowl, whisk olive oil, lemon juice, Dijon mustard, salt and pepper. Mix until smooth and emulsified. Adjust seasoning to taste.
3. Combine Vegetables and Cheese
Add chopped vegetables to a large mixing bowl. Sprinkle Parmesan cheese over the top. Toss lightly so cheese is evenly distributed.
4. Add Croutons
Add croutons to the salad just before serving. Toss gently to combine. Croutons add extra crunch and texture.
5. Pour Dressing
Pour prepared dressing over the salad. Toss everything evenly with salad tongs. Make sure vegetables are coated without wilting.
6. Serve Immediately
Serve salad in individual bowls or a large platter. Enjoy immediately to keep vegetables crisp and fresh.
Tips to Make the Best Parmesan Chopped Salad
- Use fresh, crisp vegetables for best flavor
- Shave Parmesan for delicate texture
- Make dressing just before tossing
- Do not add croutons too early to avoid sogginess
- Taste and adjust salt and pepper
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Over-chopping vegetables; keep bite-sized pieces
- Adding dressing too early; toss before serving
- Using pre-shredded Parmesan with additives; prefer fresh cheese
- Over-salting; Parmesan adds natural salt
- Storing salad too long after dressing; will get soggy
Serving Suggestions
Serve Parmesan Chopped Salad as a side dish with grilled chicken or fish. It is also great for lunch with a sandwich or wrap.
Perfect for potlucks, picnics or dinner parties. Add avocado slices or roasted nuts for extra richness.
Variations You Can Try
- Add grilled chicken or shrimp for a main dish
- Include avocado, bell peppers or corn for extra flavor
- Swap lemon juice with balsamic vinegar for tangy taste
- Use kale or spinach instead of romaine
- Add toasted seeds or nuts for crunch
Storage and Reheating Tips
- Store salad in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 24 hours
- Keep croutons separate to prevent sogginess
- Dressing can be stored in a small jar for up to one week
- Toss salad just before serving to maintain crisp texture
Nutrition Information
| Nutrient | Amount per serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | 220 kcal |
| Fat | 15 g |
| Carbohydrates | 14 g |
| Protein | 7 g |
| Fiber | 4 g |
Health Benefits
Parmesan Chopped Salad is packed with fresh vegetables, providing vitamins and fiber. Olive oil adds healthy fats. Tomatoes and cucumbers are rich in antioxidants and hydration.
It is light, low in calories and supports a balanced diet. Perfect for anyone wanting a healthy, satisfying meal.
Parmesan Chopped Salad Recipe
Ingredients
- 4 cups romaine lettuce chopped
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes halved
- 1 cucumber diced
- 1/2 red onion finely chopped
- 1/2 cup shredded or shaved Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 cup croutons
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- Salt and black pepper to taste
Instructions
Prepare the Vegetables
- Wash and chop the romaine lettuce. Dice cucumber and red onion. Halve the cherry tomatoes. Make sure all vegetables are clean and fresh.
Make the Dressing
- In a small bowl, whisk olive oil, lemon juice, Dijon mustard, salt and pepper. Mix until smooth and emulsified. Adjust seasoning to taste.
Combine Vegetables and Cheese
- Add chopped vegetables to a large mixing bowl. Sprinkle Parmesan cheese over the top. Toss lightly so cheese is evenly distributed.
Add Croutons
- Add croutons to the salad just before serving. Toss gently to combine. Croutons add extra crunch and texture.
Pour Dressing
- Pour prepared dressing over the salad. Toss everything evenly with salad tongs. Make sure vegetables are coated without wilting.
Serve Immediately
- Serve salad in individual bowls or a large platter. Enjoy immediately to keep vegetables crisp and fresh.
Notes
- Use fresh, crisp vegetables for best flavor
- Shave Parmesan for delicate texture
- Make dressing just before tossing
- Do not add croutons too early to avoid sogginess
- Taste and adjust salt and pepper
FAQs about Parmesan Chopped Salad Recipe
Can I make this salad ahead of time?
Yes, you can chop vegetables ahead, but add dressing and croutons just before serving to keep salad crisp.
Can I use other cheeses instead of Parmesan?
Yes, feta, Pecorino or Asiago cheese work well. Parmesan gives a classic, slightly salty flavor.
Is this salad vegetarian?
Yes, it contains no meat. You can add nuts, beans or tofu for extra protein.
Can I use bottled dressing instead of making my own?
Yes, but homemade dressing tastes fresher and allows control of salt and oil.
How can I make it gluten-free?
Use gluten-free croutons or skip them entirely. The rest of the salad is naturally gluten-free.
Final Thoughts
The Parmesan Chopped Salad Recipe is quick, fresh and flavorful. Learning how to make Parmesan Chopped Salad ensures a healthy, delicious addition to any meal.
With simple ingredients and easy steps, anyone can prepare this salad at home. It’s perfect as a side dish, lunch or light dinner. Add variations like chicken, avocado or nuts for more excitement.
This salad is crisp, creamy and satisfying, making it a favorite for family and friends. Homemade freshness always tastes better than store-bought options.
Hi, I’m Emily Grace! I love cooking simple, tasty food that brings people together. On Bite Dive, I share easy recipes, fun food tips, and ideas to make every meal special. My kitchen is my happy place, and I’m so excited to share it with you!