| Prep: 15 mins | Cook: 5 mins | Difficulty: Easy | Serves: 6 |
| kcal | fat | saturates | carbs |
| 270 | 22g | 4g | 10g |
| sugars | fibre | protein | salt |
| 4g | 5g | 10g | 0.4g |
There’s something profoundly comforting and fulfilling about the unique combination of ingredients in this Lamb’s lettuce and poached egg salad. Growing up in Nebraska, my culinary influences have always been grounded in the rich, hearty flavors of Midwestern cooking. While this recipe veers away from the heavy and indulgent dishes my grandmother used to make, it somehow manages to encapsulate the same sense of warmth and comfort. The fresh, crisp lamb’s lettuce paired with the rich, velvety yolk of a perfectly poached egg is nothing short of a flavor revelation.
The Magic of Fresh Ingredients
One of the aspects I appreciate most about this salad is its emphasis on fresh, farm-to-table ingredients—something I hold dear to my heart. The lamb’s lettuce, or mâche, brings a delicate, slightly nutty flavor to the mix, setting the stage for the vibrant cherry tomatoes, creamy avocados, and the subtle bite of red onion. Together, they create a harmonious medley that is both refreshing and satisfying. It reminds me of visiting the local farmer’s market on warm summer mornings, selecting the freshest produce to bring home to my growing family.
Nutritional Benefits
Besides its tantalizing flavors, this Lamb’s lettuce and poached egg salad is a powerhouse of nutrients. Eggs are a fantastic source of high-quality protein and contain essential vitamins such as B2, B12, D, and E. Avocados contribute a wealth of heart-healthy monounsaturated fats, fiber, and potassium. And let’s not forget the walnuts, which bring a satisfying crunch along with omega-3 fatty acids that are excellent for brain health. This salad doesn’t just make your taste buds happy; it also nourishes your body.
If you enjoy dishes that are wholesome and nourishing, you might also like Greek Salad with Quinoa or a Classic French Bistro Salad. Both options incorporate fresh veggies, making them excellent companions to this lamb’s lettuce and poached egg salad on your veggie-centric recipe list.
For those considering what other dishes this salad might complement, think of a simple grilled salmon or a herb-roasted chicken. Both would pair beautifully, as their robust flavors can stand up to the salad’s fresh, vibrant notes, creating a balanced and delicious meal.
In essence, this recipe is more than just a salad; it’s an experience that brings together the best of nature’s flavors in a way that is both comforting and delightfully surprising. It’s the kind of dish that makes you feel good from the inside out—a testament to the beauty of fresh, well-chosen ingredients.
What You’ll Need
- 8 cups lamb’s lettuce (also known as mâche)
- 6 large eggs
- 2 medium avocados, peeled, pitted, and sliced
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1/2 red onion, thinly sliced
- 1/3 cup walnuts, roughly chopped
- 1/3 cup crumbled goat cheese
- 1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil
- 3 tablespoons balsamic vinegar
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- Salt and pepper to taste
Method
Step One
Fill a large pot with water and bring it to a gentle simmer over medium heat. Add a splash of vinegar to the water to help the eggs set better when poached.
Step Two
Crack one egg into a small bowl. Create a gentle whirlpool in the pot of simmering water using a spoon, and carefully slide the egg into the center of the whirlpool. Poach the egg for about 3-4 minutes or until the white is set and the yolk is still runny. Remove the egg with a slotted spoon and place it on a paper towel to drain. Repeat with the remaining eggs.
Step Three
In a small bowl, whisk together the extra virgin olive oil, balsamic vinegar, Dijon mustard, minced garlic, salt, and pepper to create the dressing. Adjust seasoning to taste.
Step Four
In a large bowl, combine the lamb’s lettuce, sliced avocados, cherry tomatoes, red onion, and walnuts. Toss gently to mix.
Step Five
Drizzle the dressing over the salad and toss gently to coat all the ingredients evenly.
Step Six
Divide the salad among serving plates, and top each with a poached egg. Sprinkle the crumbled goat cheese over the top.
Step Seven
Serve immediately and enjoy your Lamb’s Lettuce and Poached Egg Salad!
