Name: Butter Lettuce Salad with Avocado & Dijon Dressing
Prep time: 10 min
Total time: 10 min
Yield: 4
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 2 heads butter lettuce (Bibb or Boston), washed and dried; 1 large ripe avocado, sliced; 2 tablespoons fresh chives or scallions, chopped; 4-5 radishes, thinly sliced (optional); 1/4 cup shaved Parmesan or Asiago cheese (optional); 3 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil; 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar (or fresh lemon juice); 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard; 1 teaspoon honey or maple syrup; 1 clove garlic, minced; Salt and freshly cracked black pepper to taste

The Salad You Can Eat with Your Hands

Hey friends! Sometimes the best salads are the simplest ones. This Butter Lettuce Salad with Avocado and Dijon Dressing is my current go-to when I want something fresh, elegant, and ready in less than 10 minutes.

If you’ve been heavy on the pasta salads lately like my Italian Grinder Pasta Salad or Caprese Pasta Salad this is the perfect light, crisp reset. The tender butter lettuce leaves act like little cups that hold the creamy avocado and zesty dressing perfectly. It’s light enough to be a side for a heavy dinner but satisfying enough for a quick lunch.

Why It Wins for Lunch

Texture is key here. Butter lettuce (also called Bibb or Boston) is soft and velvety, unlike crunchy romaine. When you pair it with buttery avocado and a sharp Dijon vinaigrette, every bite melts in your mouth.

It’s also an incredibly versatile anti inflammation recipe base. The healthy fats from the avocado and olive oil keep you full, and you can easily add protein like grilled shrimp or chicken to make it a main meal. Whether you need easy lunch ideas or a quick lettuce salad recipe that feels fancy, this bowl delivers.

Simple Ingredients, Big Flavor

Butter Lettuce: Look for vibrant green heads. Leave the smaller inner leaves whole for a beautiful presentation.
Avocado: Ripe but firm is best so it holds its shape when sliced.
Dijon Vinaigrette: A simple whisk of apple cider vinegar (or lemon juice), olive oil, Dijon mustard, a touch of honey, and garlic.
Fresh Herbs: Chives or scallions add a mild onion bite that cuts through the creaminess.
Radishes (Optional): Thinly sliced for a peppery crunch.
Cheese (Optional): Shaved Parmesan or Asiago adds a salty, nutty finish.

Toss It Together

Step 1: Wash and Dry: Gently separate the lettuce leaves and wash them well. Use a salad spinner to get them bone dry wet leaves mean watery dressing!.

Step 2: Make the Dressing: In a small jar, whisk together 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar (or lemon juice), 3 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil, 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard, 1 teaspoon honey, and 1 minced garlic clove. Season with salt and pepper.

Step 3: Assemble: Arrange the lettuce leaves on a large platter. Top with avocado slices and radishes (if using).

Step 4: Dress: Drizzle the dressing over the salad just before serving. Finish with chopped chives and shaved cheese.

Make It Your Own

Add Protein: Top with grilled chicken or shrimp for a chicken avocado salad or shrimp avocado salad main dish.
Tropical Twist: Add diced mango for a sweet and savory mango salad variation.
Extra Crunch: Toss in some cucumber slices for a cucumber avocado salad vibe.
Pair It: Serve alongside Hawaiian Roll Sliders or a cozy casserole recipe for a balanced dinner.

A 10-Minute Win

This Butter Lettuce Salad with Avocado and Dijon Dressing is proof that healthy eating doesn’t have to be complicated. It’s fresh, creamy, and zesty all at once. Enjoy!