Canlis Salad Recipe

Vegetarian Canlis Salad Recipe

The Canlis Salad is a renowned dish from the Canlis Restaurant in Seattle, known for its fresh ingredients and delightful flavors. Below is a vegetarian adaptation of this classic salad, omitting bacon and using plant-based alternatives.

Ingredients

• 1 clove garlic (minced)
• 5 tablespoons olive oil
• 2 heads romaine lettuce (torn into bite-sized pieces)
• 2 tomatoes (cut into wedges)
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese (or nutritional yeast for a vegan option)
• 1/3 cup chopped green onions
• 1/2 teaspoon chopped fresh mint leaves
• 1/4 teaspoon dried oregano
• 3 tablespoons lemon juice
• 1 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1 cup croutons (store-bought or homemade)

Instructions

Prepare the Dressing:

• In a small bowl, whisk together the minced garlic, olive oil, lemon juice, salt, pepper, oregano, and mint until well combined.

Assemble the Salad:

• In a large salad bowl, combine the torn romaine lettuce, tomato wedges, chopped green onions, and croutons.

Add Cheese:

• If using Parmesan cheese or nutritional yeast, sprinkle it over the salad.

Dress the Salad:

• Drizzle the dressing over the salad and toss gently to combine all ingredients evenly.

Serve:

• Serve immediately as a refreshing side dish or light main course.

Tips

• For added flavor, consider mixing in other vegetables like cucumbers or bell peppers.
• You can make your own croutons by toasting cubes of bread with olive oil and seasoning.
• This salad pairs well with grilled vegetables or as a side to pasta dishes.

What Are Some Vegetarian Alternatives to the Bacon in the Canlis Salad?

You can replace bacon in the Canlis Salad with several vegetarian alternatives:

• Smoky Tofu: Marinated and baked or pan-fried tofu can provide a similar texture and flavor.
• Coconut Bacon: Made from large flake coconut, tamari, and spices, it offers a smoky flavor without meat.
• Mushrooms: Sautéed shiitake or portobello mushrooms can add a savory umami flavor.
• Tempeh Bacon: Seasoned and cooked tempeh can mimic the texture of bacon.

How Can I Make the Canlis Salad Vegan-Friendly?

To make the Canlis Salad vegan-friendly:

• Replace the Bacon: Use one of the vegetarian alternatives mentioned above (like smoky tofu or coconut bacon).
• Omit the Cheese: Use a vegan cheese substitute or nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor without dairy.
• Substitute the Egg: Use aquafaba (the liquid from canned chickpeas) or a commercial egg replacer in place of the coddled egg in the dressing.

Are There Any Other Salads Similar to the Canlis Salad That Are Vegetarian?

Yes, here are some salads that have similar elements and can be made vegetarian:

• Caesar Salad: Use vegetarian Caesar dressing and omit anchovies. Add croutons and Parmesan cheese or nutritional yeast.
• Mediterranean Salad: Combine mixed greens with tomatoes, cucumbers, olives, feta cheese (or a vegan alternative), and a lemon-olive oil dressing.
• Greek Salad: A mix of tomatoes, cucumbers, red onion, bell peppers, olives, and feta cheese with a simple vinaigrette.

What Are Some Good Vegetarian Crouton Options for the Canlis Salad?

For vegetarian croutons, consider:

• Homemade Croutons: Make croutons by tossing cubed bread with olive oil, garlic powder, and Italian herbs before baking until golden.
• Store-Bought Options: Look for brands that offer herb-infused or garlic-flavored croutons that do not contain animal products.
• Pita Chips: Broken pieces of pita chips can add crunch and flavor as an alternative to traditional croutons.

Can I Substitute the Parmesan Cheese with a Vegetarian Cheese in the Canlis Salad?

Yes, you can substitute Parmesan cheese with various vegetarian options:

• Nutritional Yeast: Provides a cheesy flavor without dairy and is often used in vegan recipes.
• Vegan Parmesan Cheese: Many brands offer plant-based Parmesan that can be used as a direct substitute.
• Grated Pecorino Romano: If you’re not strictly vegan but want to avoid traditional Parmesan, this sheep’s milk cheese is often considered vegetarian-friendly.

These suggestions will help you adapt the Canlis Salad to suit your dietary preferences while maintaining its delicious flavors! Enjoy your culinary creations!

Enjoy this delicious Vegetarian Canlis Salad as a fresh addition to your meals!