Mesclun and artichoke salads are often delicious and nutritious. The combination of these two leaves is delicious and full of nutrients. For this healthy and refreshing dish, prepare a mesclun and artichoke salad. It is one of the best ways to enjoy a springtime salad. This dish can also be served as a light appetizer. If you want to make this salad for a special occasion, you can serve it as an appetizer.
Mesclun and Artichoke Salad Recipes
Mesclun and Artichoke Salad
Equipment
Ingredients
- 10 tablespoons Italian dressing I used Newmans Own Family Recipe Italian 1 quart grape tomatoes, halved
- 1 white onion chopped
- 2 cans quartered artichoke hearts cut in half
- 4 ounces cheese filled tortellini dried
- 5 ounces feta cheese
- 5 cups bagged Mesclun any blend of greens
Instructions
Prep
- Divide the ingredients evenly among the mason jar/s.
- Layer them in order based on the ingredient list above in a mason jar starting with the dressing.
- Make sure the dressing does not touch the greens yet.
- Place the lid and close tightly.
To Serve
- Shake the jar well to coat the ingredients with the dressing and enjoy!
Video
Notes
Nutrition
© Food And Meal
This website provides approximate nutrition information for convenience and as a courtesy only. Nutrition data is gathered primarily from the Spoonacular Database, whenever available, or otherwise other online calculators.
Alternative Method: Mesclun and Artichoke Salad with Grilled Artichokes
Ingredients:
- 1 cup fresh mesclun greens
- 1 can of artichoke hearts, drained
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 lemon, cut into wedges
- Balsamic glaze for drizzling
Instructions:
- Preheat the Grill: Prepare your grill for medium-high heat. If using a gas grill, preheat it to around 400°F (200°C). For a charcoal grill, wait until the coals are covered with ash.
- Prepare the Artichokes: While the grill is heating, toss the drained artichoke hearts in a bowl with olive oil, salt, and pepper. Ensure they are well-coated.
- Grill the Artichokes: Place the artichoke hearts directly on the grill grates. Grill for about 2-3 minutes on each side, or until they develop grill marks and a slightly charred appearance.
- Assemble the Salad: On a serving platter, arrange the fresh mesclun greens. Once the grilled artichokes are ready, gently place them over the greens.
- Drizzle and Serve: Squeeze lemon wedges over the salad and drizzle with balsamic glaze. The heat from the grilled artichokes will slightly wilt the mesclun greens. Toss the salad gently to combine the flavors.
- Serve: Your Grilled Artichoke and Mesclun Salad is ready to be served. The combination of smoky grilled artichokes with the freshness of mesclun greens creates a delightful contrast of flavors and textures. Enjoy!
Tips for making Mesclun and Artichoke Salad
Cooking Tips
- Marinate the Artichokes: To infuse the artichoke hearts with flavor, marinate them for about 30 minutes before grilling. You can use olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, and your choice of herbs. The marination will elevate the taste and prevent them from drying out on the grill.
- Grilling Time: Keep a close eye on the artichokes while grilling. They should have those appealing grill marks without becoming overly charred. Two to three minutes per side is usually sufficient.
- Fresh Ingredients: For the mesclun greens, always opt for the freshest available. They should be crisp, vibrant, and free from any signs of wilting.
- Dress Just Before Serving: To maintain the salad’s freshness, only dress it with lemon juice and balsamic glaze just before serving. This will keep the mesclun greens crisp and prevent them from wilting prematurely.
- Grill Variation: If you don’t have access to an outdoor grill, a stovetop grill pan works perfectly for grilling the artichokes. It delivers those coveted grill marks and that smoky flavor.
Serving Suggestions
- Pair with White Wine: This salad pairs wonderfully with a crisp, chilled white wine, such as Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio.
- Garnish with Parmesan: Shave fresh Parmesan cheese over the top just before serving for a savory kick.
- Serving Platter: Present your salad on a beautiful serving platter to showcase the colorful ingredients.
- Main Course Companion: While it’s fantastic as a standalone dish, consider serving it as a side to grilled chicken, fish, or steak for a complete meal.
- Toasted Baguette: Accompany your salad with slices of toasted baguette or crusty bread to scoop up every delicious bite.
Frequently Asked Questions About Mesclun and Grilled Artichoke Salad
- Can I prepare the artichokes in advance for this salad? Yes, you can marinate the artichokes in advance, but it’s best to grill them just before serving to maintain their texture and smoky flavor.
- What dressing do you recommend for this salad? A simple dressing of lemon juice and balsamic glaze complements the flavors. You can also add a drizzle of extra-virgin olive oil for richness.
- How do I store leftovers of Mesclun and Grilled Artichoke Salad? Leftovers can be refrigerated for up to one day, but keep in mind that the mesclun greens may wilt slightly. Store them in an airtight container and dress with fresh lemon juice and balsamic glaze before serving again.
- Can I use fresh artichokes for this recipe? Absolutely! Fresh artichokes require some additional preparation, but they can add an even more intense flavor to the salad.
- Are there any variations of mesclun greens to consider? Yes, mesclun is often a mix of tender young greens like arugula, lettuce, and radicchio. You can find different varieties to experiment with and customize your salad.
Elevate your salad game with our Mesclun and Grilled Artichoke Salad recipe. Grilled to perfection, it’s a culinary masterpiece you don’t want to miss. Subscribe to our blog for more delightful recipes!
I'm James F Anderson, a noted sous chef from London and a Le Cordon Bleu alumnus. My career began in a Michelin-starred Parisian eatery, where my blend of classic and contemporary cooking, using seasonal ingredients, earned accolades. Recognized in culinary publications and on cooking shows, I’m committed to mentoring aspiring chefs and delivering memorable dining experiences, marking me as a standout talent in the culinary world.