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Cos Salad with Rye Crisps and Lemon-Pecorino Vinaigrette

This vibrant romaine salad with rye crisps and lemon-pecorino vinaigrette offers a sophisticated take on a classic green salad. The dish combines the refreshing crunch of chilled romaine hearts with a punchy, umami-rich dressing and the earthy depth of toasted rye. By roasting day-old bread with fresh herbs and garlic, you create a batch of flavourful crisps that provide a far more satisfying texture than standard shop-bought croutons.

As a versatile vegetarian starter or a light main course, this salad is perfect for seasonal entertaining or a quick midweek meal. The lemon and Pecorino-Romano dressing can be prepared in advance, making it an excellent choice for those seeking a healthy yet comforting dish. Serve it on a large platter for a visually striking centrepiece that is sure to impress your guests.

Continue reading below

Ingredients for Cos Salad with Rye Crisps and Lemon-Pecorino Vinaigrette

  • 4 or 5 slices day-old rye bread, cut into 1/4-inch (6-mm) cubes

  • 60ml (60 ml) extra-virgin olive oil

  • 2 cloves garlic, minced

  • A few sprigs fresh thyme or rosemary

  • Pinch kosher salt

  • 80g (65 g) grated Pecorino-Romano cheese, plus more for serving

  • 80ml (75 ml) Champagne vinegar

  • 80ml (75 ml) fresh lemon juice

  • 1 1/2 tablespoons Dijon mustard

  • 1 clove garlic

  • 2 teaspoons kosher salt

  • Freshly cracked pepper, plus more for serving

  • 350ml (360 ml) extra-virgin olive oil

  • 3 cos hearts, ends trimmed, leaves separated, washed, and dried

  • 1 large handful fresh mint leaves, roughly torn, some reserved for serving

Preheat the oven to 177°C (175°C).

In a food processor, pulse the bread until coarse crumbs form. Spread the crumbs on a baking sheet and toss them with the oil, garlic, herbs, and a pinch of salt until evenly coated. Roast the crumbs, tossing occasionally, until they’re golden brown, 15 to 20 minutes. Once cooled, the rye crisps can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 weeks.

In a mini food processor, pulse all of the ingredients together until they’re well combined and the dressing has emulsified. (You can also whisk the dressing by hand.)

Place the lettuce leaves in a large bowl and scatter them with the torn mint. Pour about 3/4 cup (180 ml) of the vinaigrette over the leaves, gently tossing until well coated, adding more dressing if needed. Transfer the salad to a platter and, using a fine grater, grate on additional cheese. Scatter with the rye crisps and remaining mint, and finish with freshly cracked pepper.

Disclaimer

While every effort has been made to ensure the information is accurate and up to date, individual needs may vary and dietary requirements can differ based on personal health conditions. Always check food labels and allergen information before preparing or consuming any recipe. If you have specific health concerns, allergies, intolerances, or are following a medically prescribed diet, seek advice from your GP, pharmacist, or a registered dietitian before making significant changes to your diet or lifestyle.

Article history

The information on this page is peer reviewed by qualified clinicians.

  • 16 Jan 2026 | Originally published

    Authored by:

    UK recipe editors

    Peer reviewed by

    UK recipe editors
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