Waldensian Salad
A crisp Waldensian Salad features fresh lettuce tossed with a vibrant parsley vinaigrette, perfect for light, flavorful meals or as a refreshing side dish.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Mix vinegar, canola oil, salt, pepper, and a chip of garlic to make the dressing.
- Chill the dressing overnight.
- Break the lettuce into bite-sized pieces.
- Add half a jar of parsley to the lettuce.
- Pour the chilled vinegar mixture over the lettuce and parsley, then toss to combine.
Tips & Substitutions
For a bolder flavor, consider adding a teaspoon of Dijon mustard to the dressing. If you have fresh garlic on hand, use a clove instead of a chip for a more robust taste. You can substitute the canola oil with olive oil for a different flavor profile. Also, feel free to add other greens like arugula or spinach for added nutrition and texture.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this Waldensian Salad as a refreshing side dish alongside grilled meats or as a light lunch. It pairs beautifully with Mini Muffaletta Sandwiches or can be enjoyed on its own for a simple meal. Consider adding some toasted nuts for extra crunch or pairing it with a light soup for a full meal experience.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two days. However, keep the dressing separate until ready to serve to maintain the crispness of the lettuce. If the salad has been dressed, it’s best to consume it the same day to avoid sogginess.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Waldensian Salad contains roughly 294 calories, with 12g protein, 39g carbohydrates, and 11g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (85% of the Daily Value), vitamin C (43% of the Daily Value), and potassium (36% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 2124mg per serving (92% 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 this salad ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the dressing a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator. However, it’s best to assemble the salad just before serving to keep the lettuce crisp. If you must prepare it ahead, consider adding the dressing right before serving to prevent wilting.
What can I substitute for parsley?
If parsley isn’t available, you can use fresh cilantro or basil for a different flavor. Both herbs will impart a unique twist to the salad. Alternatively, dried herbs like Italian seasoning can be used, but fresh herbs are recommended for the best flavor.
Is this salad suitable for vegan diets?
Yes, this Waldensian Salad is entirely plant-based and suitable for vegan diets. The dressing consists of vinegar and oil, which are both vegan-friendly. You can enjoy this salad as part of a variety of vegan recipes, making it a versatile addition to your meal planning.
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).