Herby Butter Lettuce Salad with Tahini Vinaigrette

Tagged in: Recipes
Herby Butter Lettuce Salad with Tahini Vinaigrette

This vibrant Herby Butter Lettuce Salad is peak summer on a plate — fresh herbs, creamy avocado, crunchy pistachios, and a nutty-sweet tahini vinaigrette that pulls everything together. It's the kind of salad that feels both nourishing and indulgent, perfect as a light lunch or an elegant side for your next gathering.

Ingredients

For the Salad:

  • 1 head butter lettuce, gently torn or left whole-leaf for presentation

  • 1/2 cup fresh cilantro leaves

  • 1/2  cup fresh dill

  • 1 avocado, sliced

  • 1/2 cup pistachios

  • 1/4 cup hemp seeds

  • 1/4 cup sesame seeds

  • 1 tbsp ghee (or olive oil) for toasting

  • Salt and pepper, to taste

For the Tahini Vinaigrette:

  • 1/4 cup olive oil

  • 2 tbsp tahini

  • 1/2 lemon, juiced

  • 1 tbsp honey (optional, for a touch of sweetness)

  • 1 tbsp apple cider vinegar

  • 1/2 tsp garlic powder

  • Salt and pepper, to taste

Instructions

Toast the Seeds & Nuts:
In a dry skillet, warm the ghee over medium heat. Add pistachios, hemp seeds, and sesame seeds. Toast for 3–4 minutes, stirring frequently, until fragrant and lightly golden. Set aside to cool.

Make the Vinaigrette:
In a small bowl or jar, whisk together tahini, olive oil, lemon juice, apple cider vinegar, garlic powder, and honey (if using). Season with salt and pepper to taste. Thin with a splash of water if needed to reach a pourable consistency.

Assemble the Salad:
In a large bowl or platter, layer the butter lettuce, fresh dill, and cilantro. Top with avocado slices and the toasted seed-pistachio mix.

Dress & Serve:
Drizzle the salad generously with the tahini honey vinaigrette just before serving. Finish with a pinch of flaky salt and extra black pepper if desired.

Pro Tips:

  • Want even more herb-forward flavor? Add fresh chives or mint.
  • Make it a meal: Add grilled chicken, salmon, or chickpeas.
  • For extra crunch: A handful of crisp cucumbers or radish slices works beautifully.

This salad celebrates texture, freshness, and that glorious herby flavor that makes summer cooking so special. Pair with a chilled glass of rosé or sparkling water with citrus for the ultimate sunny-day treat.