Easy Grilled Romaine Hearts Recipe

Grilled Romaine Hearts offer a delicious twist on the classic salad. Lightly charred on the outside and tender within, this simple dish adds a smoky depth to fresh romaine lettuce, transforming it into a warm, savory side or starter. It’s a quick, flavorful recipe that pairs well with grilled meats, seafood, or can stand alone as a sophisticated appetizer.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This recipe is the perfect way to elevate an everyday ingredient with minimal effort. You’ll love the contrast of warm, grilled edges with the cool, crunchy core. It’s ready in minutes, uses just a few ingredients, and is endlessly versatile. Whether you’re entertaining guests or adding flair to your weeknight dinner, grilled romaine brings bold flavor with simple prep.

ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• Romaine hearts
• Olive oil
• Lemon juice or balsamic vinegar
• Salt
• Black pepper
• Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
• Crushed red pepper flakes (optional)

directions

1. Preheat your grill to medium-high heat.
2. Slice each romaine heart in half lengthwise, keeping the core intact to hold the leaves together.
3. Lightly brush the cut sides of the romaine with olive oil.
4. Season with salt and black pepper to taste.
5. Place romaine halves cut side down on the grill.
6. Grill for 2–3 minutes, or until grill marks appear and the edges are slightly charred.
7. Remove from grill, drizzle with lemon juice or balsamic vinegar.
8. Sprinkle with Parmesan cheese and red pepper flakes if using.
9. Serve immediately as a side or topped with your favorite proteins.

Servings and timing

This recipe makes 4 servings (2 romaine hearts, halved).
Preparation time: 5 minutes
Cooking time: 3–4 minutes

Variations

• Add a drizzle of Caesar or ranch dressing for a creamy finish.
• Top with cherry tomatoes, crumbled bacon, or avocado slices.
• Use blue cheese crumbles for a bold flavor swap.
• Sprinkle toasted breadcrumbs or chopped nuts for extra crunch.
• Grill lemon halves and squeeze over for enhanced flavor.

storage/reheating

Grilled romaine is best enjoyed fresh off the grill. If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 1 day. Reheat briefly on the grill or in a hot skillet to revive texture. Avoid microwaving, as it can make the lettuce soggy.

FAQs

Can I use a grill pan instead of an outdoor grill?

Yes, a grill pan works well and still gives those great char marks and flavor.

Should I wash the romaine before grilling?

Absolutely. Rinse and dry thoroughly to avoid steaming the lettuce on the grill.

Can I grill whole romaine hearts?

It’s best to halve them lengthwise to allow even cooking and charring.

Is this recipe keto or low-carb friendly?

Yes, it’s naturally low in carbs and perfect for keto or paleo diets.

What’s the best way to serve grilled romaine?

Serve as a warm salad base or side dish, or top with protein for a full meal.

Can I add garlic or herbs to the oil?

Yes, infusing the oil with garlic or herbs like thyme adds extra flavor.

Will the lettuce be too soft after grilling?

No, grilling just long enough to char the edges keeps the core crisp.

Can I make this ahead of time?

You can prep the romaine and oil in advance, but grill just before serving for best texture.

What kind of cheese works best?

Parmesan, feta, or blue cheese are great options depending on your flavor preference.

Can I make this recipe vegan?

Yes, just skip the cheese or use a dairy-free alternative.

Conclusion

Easy Grilled Romaine Hearts are a fast and flavorful way to bring something unexpected to the table. With a perfect balance of smoky and fresh, this dish is proof that salads don’t have to be boring. Whether paired with a main dish or served on their own, grilled romaine hearts are an easy upgrade for any meal.

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