We all know that the salads served in restaurants usually taste way better than their homemade versions. But, the difference is not only about piled fried croutons or boatloads of cheese. Here are the secrets behind all the salads whipped up in restaurant kitchens.
Using Good Quality Ingredients
Ingredients are the base and the star of any salad, turning any dish from average to extraordinary. According to professional chefs, restaurant-quality salads start with restaurant-quality ingredients. The reputed restaurants only use farm-fresh seasonal produce to make their salads. Some joints even rely only on local produce to offer more authentic flavors without compromising on the quality and freshness of the ingredients.
Tossing Salads in Bigger Bowls
The bigger the bowl, the better the taste. The mixing bowl plays a very important role in the case of salads, by acting not only as the vessel for the ingredients but also providing ample room for them to be combined properly with the dressings. In professional restaurant kitchens, the chef usually mixes the salad ingredients in a bowl twice the size of the portion. It allows the dressing to be mixed equally without leaving any naked green at the bottom.
Being Generous with Seasoning
Simply put, salt is a big differentiating factor between homemade salads and restaurant salads. In professional kitchens, every element of a salad dish gets seasoned. Even the lettuce gets a pinch of salt. This results in a flavorful and vibrant bite each time. But that doesn’t mean the restaurants serve salty salads! Professional cooks and chefs know the crucial balance and that’s why they usually hold back the salt while seasoning the dressings.
Making Salad Dressings from Scratch
Bottled dressings are easy, but making salad dressings from scratch can also be easy and is infinitely more delicious. Preparing the dressings and vinaigrettes from scratch each day is the key to delicious salads served in restaurants. It only takes as much time as pouring the ingredients into a bowl or empty jar and whisking until well combined. This little step in the kitchen goes a long way to making a salad perfect.
Understanding Balance of Combination
Understanding the perfect balance of textures and flavors in any type of salad is the ultimate factor. The key is to perfectly combine raw and cooked ingredients, while adding all the necessary components, like grains, proteins, carbs, veggies, fruits, herbs, toppings, and dressings. Incorporating different colors, flavors, and textures in the salad bowl without making anything overpowering can turn a regular salad into a perfect hearty meal.