Sizzling Sophistication: Grilled Romaine with Blue Cheese Vinaigrette!
Elevate your salad game with this unexpectedly delicious Grilled Romaine with Blue Cheese Vinaigrette. This recipe transforms humble lettuce into a culinary masterpiece, combining smoky char with tangy, creamy blue cheese dressing for a flavor explosion that will tantalize your taste buds.
Imagine the sizzle of crisp romaine leaves hitting the hot grill, releasing a subtle aroma that mingles with the pungent scent of blue cheese. This dish is a perfect blend of contrasts – warm and cool, crisp and creamy, smoky and tangy. It’s a testament to how a few simple ingredients can create a symphony of flavors when prepared with care and creativity.
While grilling lettuce might seem unconventional, it’s a technique that dates back to the early 2000s when innovative chefs began experimenting with grilled salads. This method not only adds a unique smoky flavor but also brings out the natural sweetness of the romaine. Pair this salad with a glass of crisp Sauvignon Blanc to complement the bold flavors and create a truly memorable dining experience.
Grilled Romaine with Blue Cheese Vinaigrette Recipe
Ingredients:
2 heads romaine lettuce, halved lengthwise
1/4 cup extra-virgin olive oil
Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
1/4 cup crumbled blue cheese
2 tablespoons white wine vinegar
1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
1 clove garlic, minced
2 tablespoons chopped fresh chives
1/4 cup toasted walnuts, roughly chopped
Instructions:
1. Preheat your grill to medium-high heat.
2. Brush the cut sides of the romaine halves with 2 tablespoons of olive oil and season with salt and pepper.
3. In a small bowl, whisk together the remaining olive oil, white wine vinegar, Dijon mustard, minced garlic, and half of the blue cheese until well combined. Season the vinaigrette with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Place the romaine halves cut-side down on the preheated grill. Grill for about 2-3 minutes, or until grill marks appear and the lettuce is slightly wilted but still crisp.
5. Transfer the grilled romaine to serving plates, cut-side up.
6. Drizzle the blue cheese vinaigrette over the grilled romaine. (If desired you may substitute a creamy blue cheese dressing.)
7. Sprinkle the remaining blue cheese crumbles, chopped chives, and veggies as desired
8. Optional: Add toasted walnuts over the top.
8. Serve immediately while the romaine is still warm.
Air Fryer Instructions:
1. Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C).
2. Brush the cut sides of the romaine halves with olive oil and season with salt and pepper.
3. Place the romaine halves cut-side up in the air fryer basket, working in batches if necessary.
4. Air fry for 3-4 minutes, or until the edges are slightly charred and the lettuce is warm but still crisp.
5. Continue with steps 5-8 from the grilling instructions.
Notes:
- For a milder flavor, substitute feta or goat cheese for the blue cheese.
- To make this dish vegetarian-friendly, use a vegetarian blue cheese or blue cheese alternative.
- For added protein, top with crumbled bacon, grilled chicken or shrimp.
- If desired you may substitute a creamy blue cheese dressing.
Nutrition Information
Serving Size: 1/2 grilled romaine head with dressing
Calories: 220
Fat: 19g
Saturated Fat: 4g
Carbohydrates: 8g
Fiber: 4g
Protein: 6g
Sodium: 300mg
Other Information
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 5 minutes
Equipment: Grill or air fryer, mixing bowl, whisk
Estimated cost per serving: $2.50
Total cost: $10 (serves 4)
In Conclusion, Grilled Romaine with Blue Cheese Vinaigrette
This versatile Grilled Romaine with Blue Cheese Vinaigrette is a perfect example of how simple ingredients can be transformed into an elegant and flavorful dish. Whether you’re looking to impress guests at a summer barbecue or simply want to elevate your weeknight dinner, this recipe offers a delicious way to enjoy your greens with many options and a gourmet twist.
Get more tips for flavorful veggies here.
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