Simple Heirloom Lettuce Salad

A bouquet of heirloom lettuces offers a medley of vibrant colors and interesting shapes. Dressed with a simple vinaigrette, this salad makes a perfect starter or palate-cleansing course for an elegant meal. For really crisp lettuce, after washing and spinning dry, spread the leaves in a single layer on a clean, dry dish towel, then gently roll up the towel and refrigerate until serving time.

Place the vinegar and salt in a salad bowl and stir to dissolve the salt. Whisk in the olive oil and add fresh ground black pepper to taste. Taste and adjust with a pinch of salt or a splash more vinegar if the dressing needs brightening.

Tear the heirloom lettuce leaves into pieces. Whisk the dressing in the salad bowl and then add the lettuce, tossing gently to coat the leaves. Serve immediately.