Charred Romaine Hearts with Homemade Ranch | Arteflame

Introduction

Grilled romaine hearts deliver incredible flavor with minimal effort, and pairing them with a creamy homemade ranch dressing makes this simple dish taste surprisingly indulgent. This recipe is perfect for anyone searching for a fresh grilled salad, a quick side dish, or a unique twist to serve at backyard cookouts. With charred edges, tender leaves, and a cool ranch drizzle, it strikes the ideal balance of smoky and refreshing. Whether you’re grilling on an Arteflame or any outdoor grill, this easy method ensures a crowd-pleasing side that looks beautiful and tastes even better.

Ingredients

For the Grilled Romaine

• 2 romaine hearts, halved lengthwise
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• Salt, to taste
• Black pepper, to taste

For the Homemade Ranch Dressing

• 1/2 cup mayonnaise
• 1/2 cup sour cream
• 1/4 cup buttermilk
• 1 clove garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon fresh dill, finely chopped
• 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, finely chopped
• 1 teaspoon fresh chives, finely chopped
• 1 teaspoon lemon juice
• Salt and pepper, to taste

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Ranch Dressing

1. In a bowl, combine the mayonnaise, sour cream, and buttermilk.
2. Add the garlic, dill, parsley, chives, and lemon juice.
3. Season with salt and pepper, then whisk until smooth.
4. Refrigerate while you prepare the romaine.

Step 2: Prep the Romaine Hearts

1. Cut the romaine hearts in half lengthwise, keeping the core intact.
2. Brush each half with olive oil.
3. Season lightly with salt and pepper.

Step 3: Grill the Romaine

1. Heat your grill to medium-high.
2. Place the romaine halves cut side down.
3. Grill for 1 to 2 minutes until lightly charred.
4. Remove from heat and transfer to a platter.

Step 4: Assemble and Serve

1. Drizzle the chilled ranch dressing over the grilled romaine.
2. Add extra herbs or cracked pepper if desired.
3. Serve immediately while warm.

Tips

This grilled romaine with homemade ranch is simple, but a few expert touches can elevate it even further. Make sure the romaine is completely dry before grilling to prevent steaming. Chilling the ranch helps the herbs meld and gives the dressing a thicker texture. Grilling the romaine quickly is key—too long and it becomes soggy rather than crisp-tender. Consider doubling the ranch recipe, as it stores well and works perfectly as a dip, spread, or topping for other grilled foods. Using fresh herbs whenever possible enhances flavor far more than dried versions.

Variations

Grilled romaine is incredibly versatile, making it easy to customize depending on your taste or occasion. From bold toppings to smoky add-ins, there are countless ways to adjust this recipe while keeping its essential charm. Try experimenting with different herbs or adding proteins to turn it into a full meal. These ideas keep the recipe fresh every time you return to it.

• Add crispy bacon crumbles for richness.
• Top with grilled chicken or shrimp for a complete meal.
• Swap lemon juice for white wine vinegar in the dressing.
• Add Parmesan shavings for a Caesar-inspired twist.
• Use Greek yogurt in place of sour cream for extra tang.

Best pairings

This grilled romaine dish pairs beautifully with a wide range of grilled meats, seafood, and refreshing sides. Its smoky-charred flavor and cool ranch dressing make it a natural partner for bold, savory main courses. Whether you’re planning a backyard cookout or a relaxed weeknight dinner, these pairings help round out the meal with complementary textures and flavors.

• Grilled steak or tri-tip
• Smoked or grilled chicken thighs
• Grilled salmon or shrimp skewers
• Fresh sourdough or garlic bread
• Cold lemonade or crisp white wine

Conclusion

Grilled romaine hearts with homemade ranch dressing offer a perfect blend of smoky depth and fresh, creamy brightness. This recipe highlights how simple ingredients can come together to create a sophisticated and memorable dish. Whether served as a side or upgraded to a light entrée, it’s an easy way to bring new life to your grilling routine.

With quick prep, bold flavor, and broad versatility, this dish is sure to become a staple at cookouts or casual dinners. Keep it in your rotation for a reliable, crowd-pleasing grilled salad that never disappoints.