Betty Salad
A tangy, savory salad featuring a blend of spinach, bean sprouts, bacon, and eggs, dressed with a sweet and tangy homemade vinaigrette perfect for casual gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Fry the bacon until crispy, then crumble and set aside.
- Hard-boil the eggs, peel and dice them.
- In a blender, combine Mazola oil, white sugar, catsup, vinegar, Worcestershire sauce, and grated onion. Blend until smooth.
- In a large bowl, combine raw spinach, drained bean sprouts, crumbled bacon, and diced eggs.
- Pour the blended dressing over the salad ingredients.
- Mix well and serve.
Tips & Substitutions
To enhance the flavor of your Betty Salad, consider using homemade mayonnaise instead of catsup for a richer dressing. If you want a lighter option, substitute the Mazola oil with olive oil. You can also add some chopped nuts for extra crunch. For a vegetarian version, replace the bacon with crispy chickpeas. This dish also works well with fresh herbs like dill or parsley.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the Betty Salad chilled as a refreshing side dish for summer barbecues or picnics. It pairs beautifully with grilled meats or can be enjoyed as a light lunch on its own. Consider serving it alongside Backyard Potato Salad for a delightful spread. For a more filling meal, add some rotisserie chicken or shrimp.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. The dressing may cause the spinach to wilt, so it's best to keep the salad undressed until serving. If reheating, avoid the spinach and eggs, as they are best enjoyed fresh. Instead, consider using the dressing as a drizzle over a warm dish like Lazy Man Stuffed Cabbage.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Betty Salad contains roughly 949 calories, with 7g protein, 81g carbohydrates, and 68g fat. It is a good source of vitamin A (15% of the Daily Value), iron (14% of the Daily Value), and protein (13% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 712mg per serving (31% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make the dressing ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the dressing in advance and store it in the refrigerator for up to a week. Just give it a good shake before using, as the ingredients may separate over time. This makes it convenient for meal prep, allowing you to enjoy fresh salads throughout the week.
What can I use instead of bean sprouts?
If you can't find bean sprouts, you can substitute them with shredded cabbage or sliced cucumbers for a similar crunch. Alternatively, consider using cooked edamame for added protein and a unique flavor. Both options will still provide a fresh texture to the salad.
Is this salad suitable for potlucks?
Absolutely! Betty Salad is perfect for potlucks due to its vibrant colors and delicious flavor. Just remember to mix it shortly before serving to keep the greens fresh. It's a crowd-pleaser that complements many dishes, making it a great addition to any gathering.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).