Gram'S Wonderful Salad
A crisp, refreshing salad featuring tender lettuce, sweet mandarin oranges, crunchy walnuts, and a tangy tarragon vinaigrette, perfect for light lunches or elegant dinners.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Clean and dry the bibb or Boston lettuce and tear into bite-sized pieces.
- Add chopped celery and spring onions to the lettuce and toss with the dressing.
- Mix salad dressing by combining tarragon vinegar, salad oil, sugar, salt, and Tabasco until the sugar is dissolved.
- Put the prepared salad on plates and garnish with drained mandarin oranges and chopped walnuts in a cruet or container.
Tips & Substitutions
For added flavor, consider using a flavored vinaigrette instead of plain salad oil. If you prefer, swap walnuts for pecans or almonds for a different nutty taste. To make this salad vegan, replace the tarragon vinegar with apple cider vinegar and omit the sugar, as many brands are refined with bone char. Ensure all ingredients are fresh for the best texture and taste.
Serving Suggestions
This salad makes a vibrant side dish for grilled meats or as a refreshing starter. It pairs beautifully with Pottsfield Green Tomato Relish, adding a tangy contrast. For a complete meal, consider serving it alongside a protein like grilled chicken or tofu. Garnish with additional nuts or fresh herbs to elevate the presentation.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two days. To maintain the texture of the lettuce, keep the dressing separate until ready to serve. When reheating, be cautious as this dish is best enjoyed cold. If needed, you can refresh wilted lettuce by soaking it in ice water for a few minutes before serving.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Gram'S Wonderful Salad contains roughly 429 calories, with 11g protein, 11g carbohydrates, and 40g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (21% of the Daily Value), and a good source of dietary fiber and iron. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1060mg per serving (46% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use other types of lettuce in this salad?
Yes, you can substitute other types of lettuce such as romaine or arugula, depending on your preference. Just ensure the lettuce is fresh and crisp to maintain the salad's texture. Mixing different greens can also add variety and enhance the visual appeal.
What can I substitute for tarragon vinegar?
If you don't have tarragon vinegar, you can use white wine vinegar or apple cider vinegar as alternatives. For a different flavor, try a lemon vinaigrette. Each option will slightly change the flavor profile but will still complement the salad well.
How can I make this salad ahead of time?
To prepare this salad ahead of time, you can chop the vegetables and mix the dressing a few hours in advance. Store the components separately in the refrigerator. Combine them just before serving to ensure the lettuce stays crisp and the flavors remain vibrant.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).