Escarole Salad with Preserved Lemon Vinaigrette Recipe

 Escarole Salad with Preserved Lemon Vinaigrette is a refreshing mix of slightly bitter greens paired with a tangy, citrus-packed dressing. The preserved lemon adds depth and brightness, while the crisp texture of escarole makes this salad a standout side dish. It’s simple, elegant, and full of Mediterranean flavors.

1. Serving Quantity
Serves 4

2. Preparation Time
Preparation: 15 minutes
Total Time: 15 minutes

3. Ingredients

For the salad:

  • 1 large head escarole, washed and torn into bite-size pieces
  • 1/2 cup shaved Parmesan cheese
  • 1/3 cup toasted almonds or walnuts
  • 1 small shallot, thinly sliced

For the vinaigrette:

  • 1 preserved lemon (rind only, finely chopped)
  • 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
  • 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
  • 1/4 cup olive oil
  • 1/2 teaspoon honey (optional, for balance)
  • Salt and black pepper to taste

4. Instructions

  1. In a small bowl, whisk together preserved lemon, lemon juice, mustard, olive oil, and honey until smooth. Season with salt and pepper.
  2. In a large salad bowl, combine escarole, Parmesan, nuts, and shallot.
  3. Drizzle dressing over the salad and toss gently to coat.
  4. Serve immediately, topped with a few extra shavings of Parmesan.

5. Nutrition (per serving, approx.)
Calories: 180
Carbohydrates: 7g
Sugar: 2g
Fat: 15g
Protein: 5g

6. Tips

  • For extra flavor, add sliced olives or capers.
  • Pair this salad with roasted chicken or grilled fish for a light meal.
  • If you can’t find preserved lemon, substitute with finely grated lemon zest and a pinch of salt.
  • Add avocado or cucumber for more texture.
  • Serve chilled for a refreshing bite on warmer days.

This Escarole Salad with Preserved Lemon Vinaigrette balances fresh greens and bold citrus for a dish that feels both light and full of character.