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Grilled Romaine Salads

Grilled Romaine Salads - Quick Delicious Meals

Grilling isn’t just for meats and veggies; it brings out a unique flavor in lettuce too. Enter the grilled romaine salad, an exciting dish perfect for summer gatherings or a casual weeknight meal. As a registered dietitian and food blogger, I often look for ways to add creativity and healthiness to everyday ingredients. 
Grilled romaine checks both boxes! Imagine the crispness of romaine lettuce kissed by flames, paired with tasty toppings. I often find myself tossing this together for family BBQs or serving as a side. If you’re curious about this delectable salad, let’s explore what it is, why it works, and how to make it.
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Prep Time 35 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Total Time 45 minutes
Servings: 4
Course: Dinner
Cuisine: American
Calories: 250
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 4 romaine hearts, sliced lengthwise
  • Extra virgin olive oil, for brushing
  • Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper
  • 1 tablespoon unsalted butter, melted optional for richer flavor
  • 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
  • 1/3 cup creamy ranch dressing, chilled
  • 1 tablespoon finely chopped shallots
  • 2 tablespoons fresh chives, finely chopped
  • 4 strips of crispy bacon, cooked and crumbled
  • 1/2 cup blue cheese crumbles
  • 1/2 cup herbed breadcrumbs, toasted

Method
 

Step 1: Prepare the Grill
  1. Start by preheating your grill to medium-high heat. This temperature will bring out the best in the lettuce and create a lovely char. If using a gas grill, heat it for about 10-15 minutes. If charcoal is your thing, light the coals and wait until they’re glowing.
Step 2: Prepare the Romaine Hearts
  1. Slice the romaine hearts in half lengthwise. Rinsing them before is crucial to clean away any grit. Pat them dry with a paper towel. Drizzle a light coating of olive oil on the cut sides of the lettuce, and season with salt and pepper.
Step 3: Grill the Romaine
  1. Place the romaine halves cut side down on the grill. Cook for about 2-3 minutes, watching carefully to prevent burning. Your goal is to achieve grill marks while keeping the leaves crisp. Flip them onto their back sides and grill for an additional minute.
Step 4: Prepare Your Toppings
  1. While the romaine is grilling, you can prepare your toppings. In a mixing bowl, combine the halved cherry tomatoes, chopped shallots, chives, crumbled bacon, and blue cheese. This combination is simple yet bursting with flavor.
Step 5: Assemble the Salad
  1. Once the romaine is grilled to perfection, remove it from the grill and let it rest for a minute. On a large platter, place the grilled lettuce halves. Drizzle the creamy ranch dressing on top, followed by the delicious toppings you just prepared. Finally, sprinkle the toasted herbed breadcrumbs over everything for that extra crunch.

Notes

  • Choose the Right Lettuce: Romaine is sturdy enough for grilling. Avoid delicate greens like spinach or arugula as they may wilt.
  • Don’t Overdo the Oil: A light brush of olive oil is enough to enhance flavors without making the lettuce greasy.
  • Experiment with Dressings: While ranch dressing is great, consider other options like balsamic vinaigrette or a zesty Italian dressing for a different spin.
  • Add More Veggies: Feel free to throw in additional vegetables like grilled bell peppers or zucchini for more nutrients and color.
  • Make it a Meal: Add sliced grilled chicken or chickpeas for extra protein, making it a complete dish.