Grilled Romaine Salad
Grilled lettuce. Come on, really?
My first reaction was a cocked eyebrow and a quizzical smacking of the lips trying to wrap my tastebuds around the concept of grilling lettuce.
But it was one of Chef Mel Chaiken’s creations and, since I have consistently been amazed by her flavor combinations, I knew I had to try it.
Bulls-eye!! Again.
Thank you Chef, you certainly inspired many delicious renditions of that meal over the last couple of years.
The grilling of a crisp fresh head of romaine that has been anointed with a bit of extra virgin olive oil, sweet balsamic vinegar and the simplest of seasonings turns it from a simple salad base into a smokey somehow richer and much more fulfilling meal. That, topped with any number of sweet and savory accompaniments, is all one needs for a most satisfying medium size meal. Pair it up with some crusty bread or a mixed grill of skewered meats like miso glazed salmon, chicken souvlaki or beef sate and proceed to melt into your chair. It’s simple, quick and has minimal clean up. A winner no matter how you look at it.
Salt & Pepper TT
Crumbled Feta Cheese
Crumbled Goat Cheese
Diced Smoked Gouda
Shaved ParmesanDiced Pancetta
Crumbled Bacon
Minced Garlic
Diced Red Onion
Peppadew Peppers
Grape or Cherry Tomatoes
Smoked Sea Salt