If you’re searching for a vibrant, refreshing salad that brings a delightful crunch and herbaceous zing to your table, look no further than JP’s Iceberg Lettuce Dill Salad Recipe. This salad combines crisp iceberg lettuce with the aromatic punch of fresh dill and coriander, all brightened with a tangy verjuice dressing. It’s simple, colorful, and the perfect companion to any meal, balancing textures and flavors in a way that never disappoints. Whether you’re a salad enthusiast or just dipping your toes into fresh greens, this recipe will quickly become a cherished favorite.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Here’s where the magic begins: a handful of straightforward, fresh, and vibrant ingredients come together to create a salad that tastes far more sophisticated than it looks. Each component adds its own unique texture, color, or flavor burst, making the final dish truly irresistible.
- 8 cups iceberg lettuce: Crisp, cool, and crunchy; forms the perfect refreshing base.
- Handful of finely sliced red cabbage: Adds beautiful purple color and a subtle crunch to balance the greens.
- 6 snow peas, diagonally sliced: Lightly sweet and packed with snap for extra texture variety.
- 3/4 cup dill, lightly packed: This herb gives the salad its signature herbal, slightly tangy note.
- 3/4 cup coriander/cilantro, lightly packed: Fresh and citrusy, it complements the dill perfectly.
- 1/2 eschalot/french onion, finely chopped: Adds a gentle onion bite without overpowering the salad.
- 4 tbsp verjuice: A crisp, tart juice made from unripe grapes that brightens the dressing beautifully.
- 3 tbsp extra virgin olive oil: Or lemon-infused olive oil to deepen the citrus notes if you prefer.
- 1 tsp lemon zest: Adds aromatic brightness and fresh flavor.
- 1/2 tsp sugar (white): Balances acidity and rounds out the dressing flavor.
- 1/2 tsp yellow mustard powder: Introduces a subtle warmth and complexity to the dressing.
- Salt and pepper: Essential seasonings to tie everything together.
How to Make JP’s Iceberg Lettuce Dill Salad Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Dressing
Start by combining verjuice, olive oil, lemon zest, sugar, mustard powder, salt, and pepper in a screw-top jar. Give it a good shake to marry all those flavors. This zesty dressing is the heart of the salad, delivering the perfect balance of tartness and earthiness that complements the fresh herbs and crunchy veggies.
Step 2: Mix the Herbs and Shallots
In your salad bowl, toss together the finely chopped eschalot, dill, and coriander. Drizzle about one-third of the dressing over the herbs and give it a gentle mix. Letting the herbs marinate in the dressing for about 20 minutes before serving allows the flavors to blend beautifully, ensuring every bite notes that fresh, vibrant taste.
Step 3: Assemble the Salad Base
On top of the dressed herbs, layer your iceberg lettuce, snow peas, and red cabbage. The combination of crunchy iceberg and snap from the snow peas combined with the vivid purple pop of cabbage turns this salad into a feast for both eyes and palate.
Step 4: Final Toss and Serve
Just before serving, drizzle the remaining dressing over the assembled salad and toss lightly but thoroughly. This ensures every leaf and vegetable slice is coated with that delicious tangy dressing, culminating in a perfect marriage of textures and flavors.
How to Serve JP’s Iceberg Lettuce Dill Salad Recipe
Garnishes
For a delightful presentation and additional flavor, consider garnishing your salad with a few extra sprigs of fresh dill and coriander on top. Toasted pine nuts or sliced almonds can add a pleasant nutty crunch that complements the herbs beautifully.
Side Dishes
This salad pairs wonderfully with grilled chicken, seafood, or even a light pasta. Its bright and herbaceous notes make it a refreshing companion for richer mains, cutting through heavier flavors with ease.
Creative Ways to Present
Serve JP’s Iceberg Lettuce Dill Salad Recipe in clear glass bowls to showcase the vibrant greens and purples. Alternatively, consider using individual lettuce leaves as natural cups for a fun appetizer presentation. You can also add edible flowers to elevate visual appeal if you’re hosting guests.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have any leftovers, store the salad and dressing separately in airtight containers to maintain freshness. The iceberg lettuce tends to wilt if dressed too early, so keeping dressing on the side helps preserve that crisp texture.
Freezing
This salad isn’t suitable for freezing because the lettuce and herbs will lose their texture and freshness, turning limp and unappetizing after thawing. For best results, always enjoy it fresh.
Reheating
JP’s Iceberg Lettuce Dill Salad Recipe is best served cold or at room temperature. It does not require reheating since it relies on fresh, crisp textures and a zingy dressing that heating would diminish.
FAQs
Can I substitute verjuice if I don’t have it?
Absolutely! If verjuice is hard to find, a mix of white wine vinegar and a touch of lemon juice can work well to mimic its mild acidity and fruity undertones.
Is this salad suitable for vegans?
Yes, JP’s Iceberg Lettuce Dill Salad Recipe is completely vegan friendly, as it uses only plant-based ingredients, making it a perfect fresh option for plant-based diets.
Can I add protein to make it a main dish?
Definitely! Grilled shrimp, sliced chicken breast, or chickpeas tossed in will elevate this salad into a light but satisfying main course without overpowering the bright flavors.
How long can I prep the dressing in advance?
The dressing can easily be made up to two days ahead and stored in the refrigerator. Just give it a good shake before using to bring the ingredients back together.
Does the salad keep well if tossed with dressing the night before?
It’s best to toss the salad with dressing just before serving to keep the iceberg lettuce crisp. If left dressed overnight, the lettuce may become soggy and lose its delightful crunch.
Final Thoughts
JP’s Iceberg Lettuce Dill Salad Recipe is one of those refreshing, easy-to-make dishes that never fail to brighten up any meal. Its crisp textures combined with the fresh herb and tangy dressing make for a vibrant experience you’ll want to return to again and again. Give it a try and watch it become a staple in your salad rotation—your taste buds will thank you!
