Refreshing Little Gem Salad with Champagne Vinaigrette
Marissa Stevens adapted by JojoM
A quick and refreshing Little Gem Salad with a creamy vinaigrette and crunchy walnuts — ready in just 10 minutes.
Little Gem Salad 🥬✨
Fresh, crunchy, and irresistibly simple — this Little Gem Salad is a 10-minute wonder that turns humble greens into a restaurant-style starter. With crisp lettuce, toasted walnuts, and a silky champagne vinaigrette, it’s the perfect mix of elegance and ease. 🥗
🥄 Why You’ll Love It
- Ready in 10 minutes — minimal prep, maximum freshness.
- Balanced and bright — honey and vinegar create the perfect tangy-sweet dressing.
- Customizable — pairs beautifully with grilled chicken, salmon, or a slice of sourdough.
🥬 About Little Gem Lettuce
Little Gem lettuce is a cross between romaine and butter lettuce — think tender hearts with a crisp bite! It holds dressing beautifully without wilting, making it ideal for quick salads or elegant sides.
🍯 The Star: Champagne Vinaigrette
The light, golden champagne vinaigrette adds a luxurious touch that lifts the flavors of the lettuce. If you can’t find champagne vinegar, white wine vinegar works just as well. Add a small clove of minced garlic for extra punch! 🧄
🥗 How to Make It
- Whisk the dressing — combine vinegar, Dijon, honey, and shallots, then slowly drizzle in olive oil until emulsified.
- Season — add salt and pepper to taste.
- Toss & serve — coat the Little Gem leaves with dressing, sprinkle over toasted walnuts, and enjoy immediately!
💡 Pro Tips
- 🌿 Garnish with fresh herbs like basil, thyme, or mint for a burst of aroma.
- 🧊 Keep lettuce chilled and dry for the best crunch.
- 🍋 Add citrus segments or shaved Parmesan for extra depth.
🍽️ Perfect Pairings
This salad shines as a starter for roast chicken, fish, or pasta dishes. It’s also a refreshing counterpoint to rich mains like lasagna or risotto.
💬 FAQs
Q: Can I make the dressing ahead?
A: Absolutely! Store it in a sealed jar in the fridge for up to 3 days. Shake well before using.
Q: What can I substitute for champagne vinegar?
A: White wine vinegar or apple cider vinegar are both great alternatives.
Q: How do I toast walnuts perfectly?
A: Place them on a dry pan over medium heat for 3–4 minutes, stirring often until fragrant and golden.
Q: Is this salad vegan?
A: Yes — simply swap honey for maple syrup or agave. 🌱
Enjoy your Little Gem Salad — a simple yet sophisticated side that brightens any meal! ✨
Refreshing Little Gem Salad with Champagne Vinaigrette
Marissa Stevens adapted by JojoMA quick and refreshing Little Gem Salad with a creamy vinaigrette and crunchy walnuts — ready in just 10 minutes.
Chef's Tips
Add a small, minced garlic clove to the dressing for extra flavor.
Garnish with fresh herbs like basil, thyme, or mint.
Wash and dry lettuce leaves ahead for quick assembly.
Tools Used
Salad Spinner (optional)
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Ingredients
Salad
Champagne Vinaigrette
Instructions
Prepare Dressing
- 1
In a mixing bowl, whisk together vinegar, Dijon mustard, honey, and minced shallots.
- 2
Gradually whisk in the olive oil until the dressing emulsifies.
- 3
Season with kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste.
Assemble Salad
- 1
Place Little Gem lettuce leaves in a serving bowl or platter.
- 2
Drizzle with the prepared vinaigrette and gently toss to coat.
- 3
Sprinkle with toasted, chopped walnuts.
- 4
Serve immediately.
Comments & Reviews
Ella P.
9/3/2024
Made this for a dinner party and everyone loved it! The vinaigrette was so light and flavorful.
Tom R.
10/7/2024
Used white wine vinegar instead of champagne vinegar—still turned out delicious! Super easy.
Lia K.
11/2/2024
Love how simple this is. The toasted walnuts make a big difference in texture.
Nutrition Facts
Serving Size: 1 serving
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily values may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.
