Is That The Best You Can Do? Grilled Romaine Lettuce?

“If more of us valued food and cheer and song above hoarded gold, it would be a merrier world.” — J.R.R. Tolkien

Grilled Romaine Lettuce Recipe

Ingredients:

• 3 to 4 romaine hearts
• 3 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
• 1 tablespoon red wine vinegar (or cider vinegar)
• 2 teaspoons chopped fresh herbs such as rosemary, thyme, oregano (or 1 teaspoon dried mixed herbs)
• 1/4 teaspoon kosher salt
• Pinch of freshly ground black pepper

Instructions:

1. Prep the romaine hearts: Start by pulling off any old leaves. Chop off the top 1 or 2 inches of the lettuce head, and shave off the browned part of the root end, leaving the root end intact so that the lettuce head stays together.
2. Prepare your grill: Turn your gas grill to high or get your charcoal coal grill very hot.
3. Prepare the vinaigrette: In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, vinegar, herbs, salt, and pepper.
4. Paint the lettuce hearts all over with the vinaigrette using a brush.
5. Grill the lettuce: Grill the romaine hearts until lightly browned on all sides, turning every minute or two until done. It should take fewer than 8 minutes. Take the romaine off the grill when all sides are lightly charred.
6. Serve immediately: Serve the grilled romaine hearts whole, or chop them and toss them for a grilled salad.

This recipe is a delightful way to elevate your salad game and add a unique grilled flavor to your meal. The charred edges of the romaine hearts bring out a smoky, savory taste that pairs beautifully with the herbal vinaigrette.

Wine Pairing

For a light, refreshing pairing, I recommend a crisp Sauvignon Blanc such as the 2019 Brancott Estate Sauvignon Blanc from Marlborough, New Zealand.

Bon Appétit

If you’ve grilled your romaine lettuce without turning it into a wilted, charred mess that even a rabbit would disdain, then you’re venturing into the realm of unconventional salads. Craving more culinary adventures that reimagine traditional greens? Hit that subscribe button for a journey through the world of grilled delights. And if you’ve discovered the secret to achieving the perfect balance of charred edges and crisp freshness in your grilled romaine, please, share your culinary innovation in the comments. Or, perhaps in the spirit of salad serenity, it’s best to quietly enjoy your Grilled Romaine Lettuce, knowing that sometimes the most unexpected dishes are the most delightful.