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dandelion salad

Classic Dandelion Salad with Walnuts and Parmesan

A vibrant dandelion salad featuring fresh wild greens, toasted walnuts, and shaved Parmesan cheese, dressed simply with olive oil and lemon juice for a nutrient-rich spring dish.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 5 minutes
Total Time 20 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Green Salads
Cuisine: Mediterranean
Calories: 215

Ingredients
  

For the Salad
  • 4 cups young dandelion greens thoroughly washed and dried
  • 1/2 cup walnuts roughly chopped
  • 1/3 cup Parmesan cheese freshly shaved
  • 1 small shallot thinly sliced (optional)
  • 2 tablespoons dried cranberries optional
For the Dressing
  • 3 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil
  • 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
  • 1 tablespoon honey or maple syrup optional, to balance bitterness
  • 1/2 teaspoon flaky sea salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper

Equipment

  • Large salad bowl
  • Small mixing bowl
  • Salad tongs
  • Whisk
  • Skillet for toasting nuts

Method
 

  1. Rinse and dry the dandelion greens thoroughly. Remove any tough stems and tear larger leaves into bite-sized pieces.
  2. Place the cleaned greens in a large salad bowl and allow them to rest at room temperature for about 15 minutes.
  3. In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, lemon juice, honey (if using), salt, and pepper until well combined.
  4. Toast the walnuts in a dry skillet over medium heat for 3-5 minutes until fragrant and lightly browned, shaking occasionally. Set aside to cool slightly.
  5. Drizzle the dressing over the dandelion greens and toss gently to coat all leaves evenly.
  6. Add the sliced shallot (if using) and dried cranberries (if using), then toss again to distribute.
  7. Sprinkle the toasted walnuts and shaved Parmesan over the dressed greens.
  8. Gently toss one final time, just enough to distribute the toppings without bruising the greens.
  9. Taste and adjust seasonings if needed, then serve immediately.

Notes

  • For milder flavor, mix dandelion greens with baby spinach or arugula in equal parts.
  • Young dandelion leaves (harvested before flowering) offer the mildest flavor.
  • If foraging your own greens, ensure they come from areas free of pesticides and pet traffic.
  • Store unwashed dandelion greens wrapped in damp paper towels in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
  • This salad is best enjoyed immediately after preparation, as the greens will wilt once dressed.