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Liz's Bistro Salad with fresh greens, pickled onions, and herbs on a wooden table.
Alyssa

Liz's Bistro Salad

Crunchy, light, bright, and ultra-fresh. This French-inspired bistro salad pairs well with nearly any dinner.
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Prep Time 30 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Servings: 6 people
Course: Sides
Cuisine: French
Calories: 198
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 1 medium red onion thinly sliced
  • 1/4 cup white or red wine vinegar
  • 1/2 cup water
  • a pinch salt and sugar
  • 1 heart romaine lettuce stem removed and chopped
  • 1/2 head butter lettuce gently torn
  • 2 tablespoons fresh tarragon minced
  • 1/2 cup fresh dill chopped or torn
  • 1/4 cup fresh chives minced
  • 1/2 cup canola oil (see notes)
  • 3 tablespoons lemon juice (more to taste)
  • 3/4 teaspoon salt
  • 1 teaspoon sugar
  • 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard or mayo to emulsify the dressing

Method
 

  1. Place the onions in a jar; fill the jar about a third of the way with vinegar, then fill to the top of the onions with water. Add salt and sugar, shake, and keep in the fridge for a few hours or a few days. (Suggest 30 minutes minimum if short on time.)
  2. Shake all dressing ingredients in a jar. Adjust to taste and keep in the fridge if making ahead.
  3. Chop the romaine and herbs, and gently tear the butter lettuce into bite-sized pieces.
  4. Just before serving, toss greens, herbs, pickled onions, and dressing together, starting with about half of the dressing and adding more as necessary. Adjust seasoning to taste.

Notes

This salad is bright, tender, and fresh, perfect for pairing with a variety of dishes.