Salads
Vogerlsalat mit Kürbiskernöl (Lamb’s Lettuce with Pumpkin Seed Oil)
Ingredients
- - 200 g (7 oz) fresh Vogerlsalat (lamb's lettuce), washed and dried
- - 1 small shallot, very finely diced
- - 2 tbsp white wine vinegar or pumpkin seed oil vinegar
- - 1 tsp mustard
- - 1/2 tsp salt
- - 1/4 tsp ground black pepper
- - 4 tbsp Styrian pumpkin seed oil
- - 2 tbsp roasted pumpkin seeds, for garnish
Method
- Place the washed and thoroughly dried lamb's lettuce in a salad bowl.
- In a small bowl or jar, whisk together the vinegar, mustard, salt, pepper and shallot.
- Slowly whisk in the pumpkin seed oil to form an emulsified dressing.
- Pour the dressing over the lamb's lettuce just before serving and toss gently to coat evenly.
- Scatter over the roasted pumpkin seeds and serve immediately.
Introduction: This delicate salad of Vogerlsalat (lamb’s lettuce, also called corn salad) dressed in dark, nutty pumpkin seed oil is a hallmark of Styrian and wider Austrian cuisine.
Cultural Background: This delicate salad of Vogerlsalat (lamb’s lettuce, also called corn salad) dressed in dark, nutty pumpkin seed oil is a hallmark of Styrian and wider Austrian cuisine. Styria’s pumpkin seed oil, prized as a regional delicacy, gives this simple salad its distinctive rich, roasted flavour.
Tips: Dry the lettuce thoroughly after washing so the dressing clings rather than sliding off wet leaves. Dress the salad only just before serving, as lamb’s lettuce wilts quickly once dressed.
Variations: Add crumbled hard-boiled egg or crisp bacon for a heartier version. Include thin apple slices for a touch of sweetness.
Vegetarian/Vegan: Naturally vegan as written.
Storage: Best eaten immediately; undressed lamb’s lettuce keeps refrigerated for up to 2 days.
Reheating: Not applicable — served cold.
Nutrition: Approx. per serving: 190 kcal, 3g protein, 4g carbohydrate, 18g fat
FAQs:
Q: What is Styrian pumpkin seed oil? A: It’s a dark, nutty, cold-pressed oil made from roasted pumpkin seeds, a specialty of Austria’s Styria region. Q: Can I substitute the lettuce? A: Baby spinach or a mild mixed salad green can substitute if lamb’s lettuce isn’t available, though the texture will differ slightly.
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