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Classic French Bistro Salad Recipe

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A refreshing and elegant Classic French Bistro Salad featuring tender greens dressed in a tangy Dijon mustard vinaigrette with walnut and neutral oils, perfect for a light and authentic French-inspired starter or side dish.

Ingredients

Dressing

  • 3 tablespoons neutral flavored oil (sunflower, safflower, avocado, canola or grapeseed oil)
  • 1 tablespoon walnut oil (or any nut oil or extra virgin olive oil)
  • ½-1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
  • ½ teaspoon kosher salt
  • 1 tablespoon red wine vinegar (or cider vinegar, fresh lemon juice or white wine vinegar)
  • ½ medium finely minced shallot
  • ¼ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper

Salad

  • 7-8 cups tender salad greens

Instructions

  1. Combine the oils: In a large salad bowl, pour the neutral flavored oil and walnut oil together to create the base of your dressing.
  2. Add mustard and salt: Add the Dijon mustard and kosher salt to the oils, then whisk thoroughly to blend the flavors and begin emulsifying the dressing.
  3. Mix in vinegar and shallot: Stir in the red wine vinegar, finely minced shallot, and freshly ground black pepper. Whisk continuously until the dressing slightly thickens, developing a balanced tangy and savory flavor.
  4. Toss the greens: Add 7-8 cups of tender salad greens into the bowl. Using salad tongs or your hands, toss the greens repeatedly to ensure every leaf is lightly and evenly coated with the vinaigrette dressing.
  5. Serve and enjoy: Once dressed, serve the salad immediately, allowing yourself to enjoy a classic French bistro experience at home.

Notes

  • The neutral oil can be substituted with any mild-flavored oil such as grapeseed or canola.
  • Walnut oil can be replaced with other nut oils or extra virgin olive oil for different flavor profiles.
  • Adjust the Dijon mustard amount to taste, starting from ½ teaspoon if preferred milder.
  • Use tender mixed salad greens like butter lettuce, baby spinach, or arugula for the best texture.
  • Toss the salad thoroughly but gently to avoid bruising the greens.
  • This salad dressing can be prepared ahead and refrigerated for up to 2 days.

Find it online: https://justsosavory.com/classic-french-bistro-salad-recipe/