Canlis Salad is a standout dish that brings together fresh, vibrant ingredients with a perfectly balanced dressing. Originating from the iconic Canlis restaurant in Seattle, this salad has become a favorite for its unique combination of flavors and textures. It’s a refreshing choice that elevates any meal with its crisp greens, tangy vinaigrette, and subtle hints of sweetness.
We love how this salad is both simple to prepare and impressive to serve. Whether you’re looking to add a gourmet touch to your dinner or want a light and healthy option, Canlis Salad fits the bill. Let’s dive into the recipe and discover how to recreate this classic dish right in our own kitchens.
Ingredients
To recreate the famous Canlis Salad at home, we need fresh and high-quality ingredients for both the dressing and the salad itself. Below are the essential components that bring the perfect balance of flavors and textures to this classic dish.
For the Dressing
We prepare a light yet flavorful dressing that enhances every bite of the salad. Here is what we’ll need:
| Ingredient | Quantity | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Extra virgin olive oil | ½ cup | Use cold-pressed for best flavor |
| White wine vinegar | 2 tablespoons | Adds brightness without overpowering |
| Dijon mustard | 1 teaspoon | Provides subtle tang and creaminess |
| Honey | 1 teaspoon | Balances acidity with natural sweetness |
| Garlic | 1 small clove | Finely minced for mild pungency |
| Salt | ½ teaspoon | Enhances all other flavors |
| Freshly ground black pepper | ¼ teaspoon | Adds gentle heat and aroma |
For the Salad
This stunning salad combines crisp, fresh greens and complementary toppings that define its uniqueness and appeal.
| Ingredient | Quantity | Preparation Details |
|---|---|---|
| Mixed baby greens | 4 cups | Washed and thoroughly dried |
| Frisée lettuce | 1 cup | Roughly chopped for texture |
| Roma tomatoes | 1 cup | Halved or quartered |
| English cucumber | ½ cup | Thinly sliced |
| Radishes | ½ cup | Thinly sliced for crunch |
| Green onions | 2 tablespoons | Thinly sliced for mild sharpness |
| Fresh parsley | 2 tablespoons | Chopped finely for freshness |
| Toasted pine nuts | ¼ cup | Adds crunch and nuttiness |
| Shaved Parmesan | ¼ cup | For a rich, salty finish |
Each ingredient contributes to the salad’s vibrant appearance and the harmonious blend of crisp, creamy, and nutty flavors. Together, these Canlis Salad ingredients make a dish that’s as visually appealing as it is delicious.
Equipment Needed
To create the Canlis Salad perfectly, having the right equipment streamlines the process and ensures each element shines. Below is the essential kitchen gear we recommend:
- Large Mixing Bowl
Ideal for tossing the delicate baby greens and other salad ingredients evenly with the dressing.
- Small Bowl or Jar
Perfect for whisking or shaking the dressing components smoothly.
- Whisk or Fork
For emulsifying the extra virgin olive oil, white wine vinegar, Dijon mustard, and honey into a balanced dressing.
- Sharp Chef’s Knife
To precisely slice Roma tomatoes, English cucumbers, radishes, and green onions.
- Cutting Board
A sturdy surface for safe and efficient chopping.
- Vegetable Peeler
Optional but helpful for shaving fresh Parmesan into thin ribbons.
- Toaster Oven or Skillet
To toast pine nuts lightly until they’re golden and aromatic enhancing the salad’s nutty profile.
- Salad Spinner
Highly recommended to thoroughly wash and dry the frisée and baby greens, preventing sogginess.
| Equipment | Purpose | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Large Mixing Bowl | Toss salad ingredients with dressing | Use glass or stainless steel |
| Small Bowl or Jar | Combine and emulsify dressing | Jar with lid works for shaking |
| Whisk or Fork | Mix dressing ingredients | Lightweight, easy to maneuver |
| Sharp Chef’s Knife | Chop vegetables and herbs | Keep blade sharp for clean cuts |
| Cutting Board | Safe chopping surface | Preferably non-slip |
| Vegetable Peeler | Shave Parmesan cheese | Optional for texture enhancement |
| Toaster Oven or Skillet | Toast pine nuts | Stir frequently to avoid burning |
| Salad Spinner | Wash and dry salad greens | Essential for crisp freshness |
Instructions
Follow these clear steps to create the iconic Canlis Salad. We’ll start by prepping fresh ingredients, then craft the perfectly balanced dressing, and finally assemble the salad to bring all flavors and textures together.
Prep the Ingredients
- Wash and dry all baby greens, frisée lettuce, and fresh parsley using a salad spinner. Dry leaves ensure the dressing sticks perfectly.
- Slice the Roma tomatoes into thin wedges.
- Peel and cut the English cucumber into half-moon slices about 1/4 inch thick.
- Thinly slice radishes and green onions with a sharp chef’s knife for crispness.
- Toast pine nuts lightly in a skillet over medium heat, stirring frequently for about 3–5 minutes, until golden and fragrant. Set aside to cool.
- Shave Parmesan cheese using a vegetable peeler for delicate ribbons, which add creamy texture and flavor.
Making the Dressing
In a small bowl or jar, combine the following ingredients precisely for the signature Canlis Salad dressing:
| Ingredient | Measurement | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Extra virgin olive oil | 1/2 cup | Use high-quality for flavor |
| White wine vinegar | 3 tablespoons | Adds brightness |
| Dijon mustard | 1 teaspoon | Emulsifies dressing |
| Honey | 1 teaspoon | Balances acidity |
| Garlic | 1 small clove, minced | Adds aromatic depth |
| Salt | 1/2 teaspoon | Enhances all flavors |
| Freshly ground black pepper | 1/4 teaspoon | Adds subtle heat |
- Whisk vigorously or shake in a sealed jar until the dressing emulsifies into a smooth, slightly thickened consistency.
- Taste and adjust seasoning if needed; the dressing should taste bright, balanced, and lightly sweet.
Assembling the Salad
- Place the washed and dried baby greens and frisée lettuce into a large mixing bowl.
- Add sliced Roma tomatoes, cucumber, radishes, and green onions.
- Drizzle about 3 tablespoons of the dressing over the salad and gently toss with salad tongs or clean hands to coat all ingredients evenly.
- Sprinkle toasted pine nuts and shaved Parmesan on top for added texture and flavor.
- Serve immediately or chill briefly to keep ingredients fresh and crisp.
Serving Suggestions
To fully enjoy the Canlis Salad, we recommend pairing it with complementary dishes that enhance its fresh and vibrant flavors. This salad shines as both a starter and a side, bringing a bright note to any meal.
Pairing Ideas
- Serve alongside grilled chicken or fish to add a crisp contrast to the tender proteins.
- Offer as a refreshing side dish at summer barbecues alongside roasted vegetables or steak.
- Complement the salad with a crusty artisan bread to soak up the flavorful dressing.
- Include in a light lunch spread with quiche or savory tarts for balanced richness.
- Pair with a chilled white wine like Sauvignon Blanc or a crisp Rosé to match the salad’s acidity.
Presentation Tips
- Use a large shallow bowl or platter to display the vibrant greens, tomatoes, and radishes evenly.
- Garnish with extra toasted pine nuts and additional shaved Parmesan just before serving to boost texture and flavor.
- Drizzle a small amount of reserved dressing on the plate edges for a professional touch.
- Serve immediately after tossing to maintain the crispness of the greens and vegetables.
Serving Quantities
| Serving Style | Quantity per Person | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Starter | 1 cup (about 100 grams) | Light portion before main course. |
| Side Dish | 1.5 cups (about 150 grams) | Accompanies main dishes nicely. |
| Main Course (light) | 2 cups (about 200 grams) | Add grilled protein for a complete meal. |
Pro Tip
“Always dress the salad just before serving,” we recommend, “to preserve that crisp texture and the bright, fresh flavors that make the Canlis Salad truly special.”
By following these recommendations, we ensure our Canlis Salad delivers a memorable experience every time it graces our table.
Storage and Make-Ahead Tips
To keep our Canlis Salad fresh and flavorful, following proper storage and make-ahead techniques is essential. This ensures that the vibrant textures and balanced dressing remain intact for enjoying later.
Storing the Salad Components Separately
We recommend storing the salad ingredients separately to preserve their texture and prevent sogginess:
- Greens and vegetables: Wash, dry thoroughly using a salad spinner, and store in an airtight container lined with paper towels. This absorbs excess moisture and maintains crispness.
- Toasted pine nuts and shaved Parmesan: Store in small airtight containers at room temperature for up to two days to keep their crunch and flavor. Avoid refrigeration to prevent moisture buildup.
- Dressing: Keep the dressing in a sealed jar or small container in the refrigerator. Shake well before using.
| Component | Storage Method | Recommended Timeframe |
|---|---|---|
| Baby greens & veggies | Airtight container with paper towels | 1–2 days |
| Toasted pine nuts | Airtight container, room temperature | 2 days |
| Shaved Parmesan | Airtight container, room temperature | 2 days |
| Dressing | Sealed jar in refrigerator | Up to 5 days |
Make-Ahead Assembly Tips
To streamline meal preparation, we suggest the following make-ahead steps:
- Prepare and toast pine nuts up to 2 days ahead.
- Wash and dry greens thoroughly, then store as described above.
- Slice vegetables including tomatoes, cucumbers, and radishes, and keep them in separate containers for maximum freshness.
- Whisk dressing and refrigerate until ready to serve.
When ready to serve, toss all ingredients together with the dressing just before plating to keep the salad crisp and vibrant.
Key Reminder
“Always add the dressing last and serve immediately to preserve the integrity of the Canlis Salad’s fresh ingredients and lively texture.“
By following these Storage and Make-Ahead Tips, we can enjoy the Canlis Salad’s bright flavors anytime with minimal prep time and maximum freshness.
Conclusion
The Canlis Salad offers a perfect blend of fresh ingredients and a simple yet flavorful dressing that elevates any meal. By mastering this recipe and following the tips for preparation and storage, we can enjoy a vibrant and crisp salad anytime. It’s a versatile dish that fits effortlessly into both casual lunches and elegant dinners.
With just a few quality ingredients and the right techniques, making this salad at home becomes an easy way to impress guests or treat ourselves. Let’s keep this classic recipe in our culinary repertoire for a fresh and satisfying option that always delivers on taste and presentation.
Frequently Asked Questions
What makes the Canlis Salad special?
The Canlis Salad stands out for its fresh, high-quality ingredients and a perfectly balanced dressing that enhances natural flavors. Its combination of crisp greens, creamy Parmesan, toasted pine nuts, and light vinaigrette creates a refreshing and elegant dish.
What are the key ingredients in the Canlis Salad dressing?
The dressing includes extra virgin olive oil, white wine vinegar, Dijon mustard, honey, garlic, salt, and freshly ground black pepper. These ingredients blend to create a light yet flavorful dressing that complements the salad’s freshness.
Which vegetables are used in the Canlis Salad?
The salad features fresh baby greens, frisée lettuce, Roma tomatoes, English cucumber, radishes, green onions, and fresh parsley. These vegetables add color, texture, and freshness to the salad.
What equipment do I need to prepare the Canlis Salad?
Essential tools include a large mixing bowl, a small bowl or jar for the dressing, a whisk or fork, a sharp chef’s knife, a cutting board, a vegetable peeler, a toaster oven or skillet for pine nuts, and a salad spinner to wash and dry greens.
How do I prepare the Canlis Salad?
First, wash and dry the greens, slice vegetables, and toast pine nuts. Whisk together the dressing ingredients until emulsified. Toss all ingredients gently with the dressing just before serving for optimal freshness and flavor.
What dishes pair well with the Canlis Salad?
The salad pairs excellently with grilled chicken or fish, roasted vegetables, and artisan bread. These complementary dishes enhance the light and fresh qualities of the salad, making a well-rounded meal.
Can I prepare the Canlis Salad ahead of time?
Yes, but keep components separate to maintain texture. Store greens, pine nuts, Parmesan, and dressing separately. Prep vegetables and toast nuts in advance, then combine and dress the salad right before serving.
How should I store leftover Canlis Salad?
Store salad components separately in airtight containers. Keep greens cool and dry, pine nuts toasted and sealed, Parmesan refrigerated, and dressing chilled. Avoid mixing until ready to serve to prevent sogginess.