Gem Lettuce with Dill Sauce
Gem Lettuce with Dill Sauce is a perfec hot summer snack, crispy, refreshing and so flavorful. This dish is all about clean flavors, textural contrast, and plant-powered goodness, making it perfect for everything from lunch to a starter for a summer dinner party. This recipe features a dill sauce made from soaked sunflower seeds, garlic, lemon, and olive oil. It’s spooned generously onto crisp gem lettuce leaves and topped with briny olives or capers for a punch of umami.
Why Gem Lettuce?
Gem lettuce, sometimes called little gem lettuce, is a small, crunchy variety that resembles a cross between romaine and butterhead. Its tightly packed leaves offer a satisfying bite and natural cup-like shape, making them ideal for scooping up dips or holding sauces.
What makes gem lettuce so special in this dish is its freshness. Unlike leafy lettuces that wilt under heat or dressing, gem holds its shape and stays vibrant. It’s mildly sweet with just the right hint of bitterness—perfectly balanced by the garlicky richness of the dill sauce.
The Creamy Dill Sauce for Gem Lettuce with Dill Sauce
This sauce is a revelation: creamy without cream, rich without dairy, and utterly flavorful. Here’s what goes into it:
Ingredients:
- 1/2 cup soaked sunflower seeds – Soak in water for at least 4 hours or overnight to soften. These provide the creamy base.
- 1 handful fresh dill – Adds a bright, anise-like herbal flavor.
- 3 garlic cloves – For that signature pungent bite.
- Juice of 1/2 lemon – Offers freshness and tang.
- 1/2 teaspoon salt – Balances and enhances the flavors.
- 3 tablespoons olive oil – Adds silkiness and depth.
- Water, as needed – To thin the sauce to your preferred consistency.
All of these ingredients are blended until smooth pesto like consistency, creating a sauce that’s luxurious, garlicky, and bursting with the fragrant essence of dill.
Serving Suggestions
This Gem Lettuce with Dill Sauce is incredibly versatile. Here are a few ideas for how to serve it:
1. As a Starter or Appetizer
Serve gem lettuce cups on a large platter as an elegant finger food at a summer party or garden gathering. The fresh greens and zesty sauce are guaranteed to impress.
2. As a Light Lunch
Double up the portions, add some sliced cucumber or radishes, and serve alongside a crusty piece of sourdough for a refreshing midday meal.
3. In a Mezze Spread
Pair it with hummus, marinated beans, grilled vegetables, and flatbreads for a Mediterranean-inspired feast.
4. As a Side Dish
This dish works beautifully alongside grilled tofu, baked falafel, or even roasted potatoes, providing a fresh counterpoint to richer fare.
Variations and Add-Ins
Looking to personalize the Gem Lettuce with Dill Sauce? Try one of these variations:
- Add a hint of heat: Toss in a small piece of fresh chili or a dash of cayenne when blending the sauce.
- Switch the herbs: Substitute part of the dill with fresh parsley, basil, or mint for a different flavor profile.
- Boost the protein: Top with roasted chickpeas or hemp seeds.
- Add color: Garnish with thinly sliced radishes, microgreens, or edible flowers.
Make-Ahead Tips
- The Sauce: Can be made up to 3 days ahead. Store it in an airtight container in the fridge. If it thickens, thin it with a splash of water before serving.
- The Lettuce: Wash and dry the leaves a few hours ahead and store in the fridge wrapped in a damp towel or in a salad spinner.
- Assembly: Best done just before serving to keep the lettuce crisp.
FAQs: Gem Lettuce with Dill Sauce
1. Can I substitute the sunflower seeds?
Yes, you can use soaked cashews, pumpkin seeds or blanched almonds. Just note that the flavor and texture will change slightly. Sunflower seeds provide a neutral flavor and creamy consistency at a lower cost and allergen risk.
2. How long should I soak the sunflower seeds?
Ideally, soak them for 4–6 hours or overnight. If you’re short on time, a 1-hour soak in hot water can work in a pinch.
3. Can I use dried dill instead of fresh?
Fresh dill is strongly recommended for its bright, herbal flavor.
4. How long does the dill sauce last in the fridge?
It lasts up to 3 days in a sealed container. Stir before serving, and add a splash of water or lemon juice if it thickens too much.
5. Can I make this oil-free?
Yes. You can omit the olive oil for an oil-free version. The sauce will still be creamy thanks to the sunflower seeds, though it may be slightly less rich.
6. Are there any good topping alternatives to olives or capers?
Yes! Try toasted pumpkin seeds, chopped pickles, za’atar, or even crumbled vegan feta. Anything salty or briny works well with the creamy dill.
7. What’s the best way to store leftovers?
Store components separately: keep the sauce in the fridge and the lettuce wrapped in a damp cloth in a container. Assemble just before eating to maintain freshness.
8. Can I turn this Gem Lettuce with Dill Sauce into a full salad?
Absolutely! Chop the gem lettuce and toss it in a bowl with the dill sauce. Add sliced cucumber, avocado, chickpeas, and sunflower seeds for a complete salad meal.
Check out more recipes:
Savory Chickpea Granola Clusters
Gem Lettuce with Dill Sauce
Equipment
- blender
Ingredients
For the dill sauce:
- ½ cup sunflower seeds soaked 4–6 hours and drained
- 1 large handful of fresh dill
- 3 cloves garlic
- juice of ½ lemon
- ½ tsp salt adjust to taste
- 3 tbsp olive oil
- 1-2 tbsp water to thin the sauce
For serving:
- 1-2 heads gem lettuce leaves separated and washed
- Chopped olives or capers for topping
Instructions
- Soak the sunflower seeds in water for at least 4 hours, then drain and rinse.
- In a blender, combine sunflower seeds, dill, garlic, lemon juice, salt, and olive oil. Blend until smooth, adding water gradually to reach desired consistency. Taste the sauce and adjust the salt or acidity.
- Separate and wash gem lettuce leaves. Pat or spin dry.
- Spoon dill sauce onto each lettuce leaf. And assemble on a large serving plate.
- Top with chopped olives or capers and serve. Enjoy!
