The Salad That Feels Like Spring
Hey friends! If you’ve been loving the fresh, crisp salads lately (like my Butter Lettuce with Apple and Cheddar), you are going to adore this one. This Butter Lettuce Salad with Lemon Vinaigrette and Radishes is the definition of “less is more.” It’s elegant, incredibly simple, and lets the delicate texture of the greens shine.
Unlike my heartier bowls like the Italian Grinder Pasta Salad, this salad is all about lightness. The soft, buttery leaves pair perfectly with the peppery crunch of radishes and the brightness of fresh lemon. It’s the perfect side dish for literally any meal, from grilled fish to a heavy pasta night.
Why It’s a Staple
Butter lettuce (Bibb or Boston) is the star here. Its leaves are so tender that they almost melt in your mouth, which means they need a dressing that lifts them up without weighing them down. Our lemon vinaigrette does exactly that it’s zesty, slightly sweet, and tangy enough to cut through the richness of avocado or cheese if you choose to add them.
If you’re looking for easy lunch ideas or a quick lettuce salad recipe that feels fancy but takes 10 minutes, this is it.
The Fresh List
- Butter Lettuce: Look for vibrant green heads. Tear the leaves gently by hand rather than chopping them to keep that beautiful, soft shape.
- Radishes: Thinly sliced for a satisfying crunch and a peppery bite. Watermelon radishes look especially pretty if you can find them.
- Lemon Vinaigrette: A mix of fresh lemon juice, olive oil, Dijon mustard, honey (or maple syrup), garlic, salt, and pepper.
- Avocado: Adds a creamy contrast to the crisp radishes. Slice it just before serving so it stays green.
- Chives: Finely chopped for a mild oniony kick that doesn’t overpower the delicate greens.
- Parmesan or Goat Cheese (Optional): A sprinkle of cheese adds saltiness and depth, but the salad is delicious without it too.
Butter Lettuce Salad with Lemon Vinaigrette And Radishes
- Total Time: 15
- Yield: 4 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
This Butter Lettuce Salad is light, crisp, and refreshing. Tender butter lettuce leaves are topped with peppery radishes, creamy avocado, and a bright homemade lemon vinaigrette for the perfect simple side dish.
Ingredients
2 heads butter lettuce, washed and dried
4–5 radishes, thinly sliced
1 ripe avocado, sliced
2 tablespoons fresh chives, finely chopped
1/4 cup shaved Parmesan cheese (optional)
For the Lemon Vinaigrette:
1/3 cup extra virgin olive oil
3 tablespoons 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
Instructions
1. In a small jar or bowl, whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, Dijon mustard, honey, minced garlic, salt, and pepper until creamy and emulsified.
2. Wash the butter lettuce leaves gently and dry them thoroughly (a salad spinner works best). Tear larger leaves into bite-sized pieces if desired, or leave them whole for a plated salad.
3. Arrange the lettuce in a large bowl or on a serving platter.
4. Top with sliced radishes and avocado.
5. Drizzle the dressing over the salad just before serving. Toss gently to coat.
6. Garnish with chopped chives and shaved Parmesan cheese if using.
Notes
Make sure the lettuce is completely dry before dressing, or the vinaigrette won’t cling to the leaves.
Slice the radishes as thinly as possible for the best texture.
If prepping ahead, keep the dressing separate and slice the avocado just before serving to prevent browning.
Add toasted almonds or sunflower seeds for extra crunch.
- Prep Time: 15
- Category: Salad
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 plate
- Calories: 210
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 180mg
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 14g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 10g
- Fiber: 4g
- Protein: 3g
- Cholesterol: 5mg
Toss It Together
Step 1: Wash and Dry: Gently separate the butter lettuce leaves and wash them well. Dry them thoroughly using a salad spinner wet leaves = watery dressing!.
Step 2: Make the Vinaigrette: In a small jar or bowl, whisk together 1/3 cup olive oil, 3 tablespoons fresh lemon juice, 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard, 1 teaspoon honey, 1 minced garlic clove, salt, and pepper until emulsified and creamy.
Step 3: Prep the Veggies: Slice the radishes paper-thin. Slice the avocado and chop the chives.
Step 4: Assemble: Place the lettuce leaves in a large wide bowl or on a platter. Butter lettuce looks beautiful when left in larger, cup-like pieces rather than shredded.
Step 5: Top: Scatter the radish slices and avocado over the greens.
Step 6: Dress: Drizzle the vinaigrette over the salad just before serving. Toss gently with your hands to coat the leaves without bruising them. Top with chives and cheese if using.
Make It Your Own
- Add Crunch: Toasted almonds, walnuts, or sunflower seeds add a lovely nutty texture.
- Vegetable Swap: Thinly sliced cucumber or snap peas work great if you aren’t a fan of radishes.
- Herby Twist: Add fresh dill or parsley to the dressing for an extra herbaceous note.
- Pair It: This is the perfect palate cleanser alongside rich dishes like Italian Tri-Color Pasta Salad or grilled meats.
Simple Perfection
This Butter Lettuce Salad with Lemon Vinaigrette and Radishes proves that you don’t need a million ingredients to make something delicious. It’s crisp, refreshing, and beautifully balanced. Enjoy!
