Crispy Bacon and Veggie Salad

Why Make This Recipe

Crispy Bacon and Veggie Salad is a delightful mix of fresh vegetables and savory bacon that satisfies your taste buds and adds a crunch to your meal. It’s a perfect dish for lunch, dinner, or even as a side for gatherings. Not only is it delicious, but it’s also packed with nutrients from the veggies. Plus, who can resist the crispy goodness of bacon?

How to Make Crispy Bacon and Veggie Salad

Ingredients:

• 1 cup good quality mayonnaise
• 1/2 cup full-fat sour cream or plain Greek yogurt
• 1/2 cup buttermilk (or 1 tablespoon white vinegar or lemon juice plus 1/2 cup regular milk)
• 2 tablespoons fresh chives, finely minced
• 2 tablespoons fresh dill, finely chopped
• 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, finely chopped
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• 1/2 teaspoon dried mustard powder
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper, freshly ground
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• A tiny pinch of cayenne pepper (optional)
• 3 large English cucumbers, diced into half-inch pieces
• 1 pint cherry tomatoes, halved or quartered
• 1 medium red onion, very thinly sliced or finely diced
• 2 stalks celery, finely diced
• 1 medium red bell pepper, finely diced
• 8-10 slices thick-cut beef bacon, cooked until very crispy and crumbled
• 1/2 cup sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
• 1 cup homemade croutons or crushed butter crackers

Directions:

1. In a medium bowl, combine mayonnaise, sour cream (or Greek yogurt), and buttermilk. Whisk until smooth.
2. Add garlic powder, onion powder, dried mustard powder, black pepper, salt, and cayenne pepper (if using). Stir in fresh chives, dill, and parsley. Whisk until thoroughly blended.
3. Taste and adjust seasoning. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld and deepen.
4. In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the beef bacon until crispy (about 8-10 minutes). Transfer to a paper towel-lined plate to drain. Once cooled, crumble into bite-sized pieces.
5. Dice cucumbers, wash and halve cherry tomatoes, and prepare the onion by soaking in ice water if a milder flavor is preferred. Dice celery and red bell pepper uniformly. Shred cheddar cheese from a block for optimal flavor.
6. In a large mixing bowl, combine diced cucumbers, halved tomatoes, onion, celery, and bell pepper.
7. Add three-quarters of the crumbled bacon and cheese, reserving some for garnish.
8. Retrieve the chilled dressing, pour two-thirds over the salad mix, and toss to coat.
9. Transfer to a serving bowl or platter and sprinkle with reserved bacon, cheese, and croutons.
10. Serve immediately.

How to Serve Crispy Bacon and Veggie Salad

Serve the salad in a large bowl or on a platter. It makes a great main dish for lunch or dinner. You can also offer it alongside grilled meats for a heartier meal. This salad works well at barbecue parties or picnics too!

How to Store Crispy Bacon and Veggie Salad

If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It’s best to keep the salad and dressing separate if you know you won’t finish it in one sitting. This way, the vegetables will stay fresh and crunchy.

Tips to Make Crispy Bacon and Veggie Salad

• Use fresh vegetables for the best taste and texture.
• Feel free to adjust the veggies based on what you have at home.
• If you like a little kick, add more cayenne pepper to the dressing.
• Let the dressing chill longer for a more robust flavor.

Variations

You can customize this salad by adding other vegetables like bell peppers or avocados. For a healthier twist, you might also try using turkey bacon instead of beef bacon. A sprinkle of nuts or seeds can add extra crunch and nutrition!

FAQs

1. Can I make the dressing in advance?
Yes, the dressing can be made a day ahead. Just store it in the refrigerator and give it a quick stir before using.

2. What’s the best way to cook bacon for the salad?
Cooking bacon in the oven is great for even crispiness. Spread the bacon on a baking sheet and bake in a preheated oven at 400°F (200°C) for about 15-20 minutes until crispy.

3. Can I use low-fat options for the ingredients?
Yes, you can substitute low-fat mayonnaise or yogurt if you prefer. Keep in mind that it may change the flavor and texture of the dressing slightly.

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