Victoria'S Salad
A refreshing salad featuring crisp romaine, nutty Monterey Jack, and crunchy walnuts, dressed in a vibrant parsley and shallot vinaigrette—perfect for light lunches or gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- In a blender, blend parsley and shallot until well combined.
- Add vegetable oil, olive oil, red wine vinegar, Dijon mustard, sugar, salt, and pepper to the blender.
- Blend all ingredients until the dressing is smooth and well mixed.
- Wash and chop the romaine lettuce.
- In a large bowl, combine the chopped lettuce, shredded Monterey Jack cheese, and chopped walnuts.
- Pour the dressing over the salad and toss gently to combine.
Tips & Substitutions
For a fresher taste, consider using fresh herbs like basil or cilantro instead of parsley. If you're out of Dijon mustard, any grainy mustard can work as a substitute. To add a bit of zest, try adding a splash of lemon juice to the dressing. You can also use roasted almonds instead of walnuts for a different nutty flavor.
Serving Suggestions
This Victoria's Salad pairs beautifully with grilled chicken or fish for a complete meal. Serve it alongside freshly baked bread or as a colorful side to your favorite American recipes. For a vegetarian option, consider adding chickpeas or quinoa for extra protein. It also complements dishes like Lemon And Lime Salad for a refreshing meal.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Keep the dressing separate to prevent the lettuce from wilting. When ready to serve, toss the salad with the dressing again for the best flavor and texture. If the salad seems dry, a little extra olive oil can refresh it.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Victoria'S Salad contains roughly 313 calories, with 2g protein, 5g carbohydrates, and 33g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin A (69% of the Daily Value), and a good source of iron and vitamin C. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 2070mg per serving (90% 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 make the dressing ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the dressing in advance. Store it in the refrigerator for up to a week. Just give it a good shake or stir before using, as the ingredients may separate over time.
What can I substitute for walnuts?
If you have nut allergies or simply prefer a different flavor, you can substitute walnuts with sunflower seeds or pumpkin seeds. Both options add a delightful crunch and are great for enhancing the salad without compromising on taste.
Is this salad suitable for meal prep?
Absolutely! This salad is great for meal prep. Just store the dressing separately and mix it in just before serving. This helps keep the lettuce crisp and fresh, making it a perfect option for lunches throughout the week.
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).