Salade Verte
There’s something timeless about a simple green salad done well: fresh leaves, crisp vegetables, and a dressing that ties everything together without overpowering it. Salade Verte celebrates the brightness of fresh produce, pairing tender Bibb lettuce and blanched asparagus with peppery radishes and sweet cherry tomatoes. The lemon–shallot vinaigrette adds just the right balance of zest, depth, and a touch of sweetness. It’s the kind of salad that feels effortless yet elegant, whether served as a light lunch or the first course of a special meal.
Ingredients
Salad Base
1 head Boston Bibb lettuce, leaves gently separated and torn into large pieces
5–6 radishes with leafy tops, roots thinly sliced and tender greens reserved
1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
½ pound asparagus, trimmed and blanched until tender-crisp
Lemon–Shallot Dressing
¼ teaspoon sea salt
Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
1 teaspoon sugar
3 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
3 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
1 small shallot, finely chopped
1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
Instructions
Prepare the Asparagus: Bring a pot of salted water to a boil. Add the asparagus and cook for 2–3 minutes, just until bright green and tender-crisp. Immediately transfer to a bowl of ice water to stop the cooking. Drain and pat dry.
Make the Dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together the salt, pepper, sugar, lemon juice, shallot, and Dijon mustard until well combined. Slowly drizzle in the olive oil, whisking constantly to emulsify. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed.
Assemble the Salad: In a large salad bowl, combine Bibb lettuce, radish slices, radish greens, cherry tomatoes, and asparagus. Drizzle with the dressing and toss gently to coat, being careful not to bruise the delicate leaves.
Serve: Transfer to a platter or individual plates and serve immediately while crisp and cool.
Optional Finishing Touches
Add shaved Parmesan or crumbled goat cheese for extra richness.
Sprinkle with fresh herbs like tarragon or chives for a fragrant finish.
A salad like this is a gentle reminder that simplicity can be deeply satisfying. Its beauty lies in balance: tender greens meeting crisp vegetables, a light hand with seasoning, and a dressing that sings without shouting. Enjoy it as a quiet meal on its own, or as a vibrant companion to roasted chicken, grilled fish, or a warm baguette shared at the table.