This post may contain affiliate links. Please read our disclosure policy.
Bibb Lettuce Salad is one I come back to when I want something fresh and simple that still feels a little refined. The delicate, buttery leaves don’t need much. A sharp, salty Parmesan Vinaigrette and a handful of toasted walnuts give it just the right contrast.
It’s the kind of salad that works with almost anything. I’ve served it with roast chicken, grilled fish, and pasta, and it never feels like an afterthought. With just a few pantry ingredients, it comes together quickly and always tastes balanced and clean.
Table of Contents
Ingredients for Bibb Lettuce Salad
- Bibb lettuce: Look for leaves that are crisp and bright green with no browning or wilted edges.
- White wine vinegar: A clean, sharp vinegar works best. Slight cloudiness or sediment is fine if you’re using an unfiltered variety.
- Dijon mustard: I like one with a smooth texture and a little heat. As a bonus, it helps the dressing emulsify.
- Garlic: Use a fresh clove, not pre-minced. If it has a green sprout, I usually remove the core to avoid any bitterness.
- Extra virgin olive oil: Choose one with a grassy or fruity aroma. In a simple vinaigrette like this, the flavor comes through.
- Parmesan cheese: I always use a block and grate it myself. Pre-grated just doesn’t taste the same.
- Walnuts: Toast them lightly if you have time. Make sure they smell fresh and aren’t bitter or stale.
- Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper: Season to taste.
Recipe Tip
- Tearing vs. cutting: Tear the leaves by hand and use the crisp inner ones, discarding any that are damaged or wilted. Tearing helps keep the edges from browning as quickly as cutting does.
- Washing and drying lettuce: Swish the leaves in a bowl of cold water to remove dirt. Lift them out, change the water, and repeat until it runs clear. Use a salad spinner if you have one, or pat dry with a clean kitchen towel so the dressing clings better.
- Cheese on top: If you’re adding extra Parmesan before serving, I like to use a vegetable peeler to make thin shavings. It adds a nice visual touch.
- Storing leftover dressing: Keep extra Parmesan vinaigrette in a sealed container in the refrigerator. It will separate as it sits, so just give it a good shake or whisk before using.
- Toasting walnuts: Toast the walnuts in a dry skillet over medium heat until they smell fragrant and turn lightly golden. Transfer them right away to a plate or bowl so they don’t keep cooking.
Recipe Options
- Other lettuces: If Bibb isn’t available, Boston or butter lettuce are good substitutes with the same tender texture.
- Acid swaps: Try apple cider vinegar or fresh lemon juice in place of white wine vinegar for a different kind of brightness. I often use lemon when I want the vinaigrette to feel a little lighter.
- Mustard variation: Whole grain mustard adds a stronger bite and a slightly different texture.
- Cheese alternatives: Asiago or Pecorino Romano work well in place of Parmesan and bring their own sharp flavor.
- Add creamy cheese: Crumbled feta, goat cheese, or blue cheese add richness and a tangy contrast.
- Try different nuts: Pecans or almonds can stand in for walnuts and offer a new flavor and crunch. I usually toast them to bring out more flavor.
- Fresh herbs: Add basil or mint for a pop of color and a fresh, herbaceous finish.
I come back to this salad when I want something fresh that goes with everything. The ingredients are simple, but they work together in a way that’s balanced and satisfying. It’s one of those quiet recipes that earns its place in your regular rotation.
More Must Try Salad
- Little Gem Salad
- Citrus Salad
- Butter Lettuce Salad
- Kale and Brussels Sprout Salad
- 80+ Best Salad Recipes
How to Make Bibb Lettuce Salad
Combine vinegar, mustard, and garlic, then slowly add oil while whisking. Blend in parmesan and season.
Pour the salad dressing over clean, dry, torn Bibb lettuce leaves and mix well. Serve on a platter or plates, topped with walnuts and optional extra parmesan cheese.
Bibb Lettuce Salad
Video
Ingredients
- 2 heads Bibb Lettuce trimmed and washed; leaves torn into bite-size pieces
- 2 tablespoons white wine vinegar
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- 1 small clove garlic minced
- 1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil
- 1/4 cup grated parmesan cheese plus more for serving, optional
- kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
- 1/4 cup chopped walnuts
Instructions
- Place clean, dry, torn Bibb lettuce leaves in a large salad bowl.
- In a medium bowl, whisk together vinegar, mustard, and garlic until combined. Add oil in a slow, steady stream, whisking constantly until emulsified. Whisk in parmesan cheese and season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Drizzle desired amount of dressing over Bibb lettuce leaves and gently toss with salad servers until evenly coated. Arrange dressed lettuce on a large serving platter or divide between 4 individual salad plates. Sprinkle evenly with chopped walnuts and more parmesan cheese if desired; serve.
Nutrition
Nutrition information is automatically calculated, so should only be used as an approximation.
I have made this recipe several times now. It is super delicious. I have made this as written halving the recipe if it is only for me and my husband. Thank you for posting this recipe. It will be a family favorite for years to come.
That’s wonderful to hear, Mary Ann! I’m so glad you’re enjoying this salad.
I love using Bibb lettuce in salads! It knocks other lettuces out of the park. This one sounds quite tasty with the walnuts and Parmesan cheese!
I totally agree, David! Thanks so much.