Dutch Lettuce
A crisp, tangy lettuce salad topped with crispy bacon and a sweet-sour vinaigrette, perfect for light lunches or as a fresh side dish.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Take the lettuce apart, wash, drain, and dry with a towel.
- Slice the onion.
- Cut the bacon into small pieces and fry until crispy.
- Remove bacon bits and pour off all but 3 tablespoons of bacon drippings.
- While still hot, add salt, sugar, and vinegar to the bacon drippings, and stir.
- Add flour and stir well to incorporate.
- Pour the dressing over the prepared lettuce.
- Add the bacon bits on top before serving.
Tips & Substitutions
For a twist, try using a different type of vinegar, such as white wine or balsamic, which can add a unique flavor profile. If you're looking to reduce fat, consider using turkey bacon instead of traditional bacon. Make sure to wash the lettuce thoroughly to remove any grit, and for added texture, consider tossing in some Country Fresh Broccoli for crunch.
Serving Suggestions
Serve Dutch Lettuce as a refreshing side salad alongside grilled meats or as part of a picnic spread. It pairs wonderfully with dishes like Honey Burgers or can be enjoyed as a light lunch. For a complete meal, consider serving it with a bowl of soup or a hearty sandwich for a balanced plate.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover Dutch Lettuce in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. The dressing can make the lettuce wilt, so it's best to store the dressing separately if possible. To reheat, gently warm the bacon drippings in a pan before mixing them with the lettuce to refresh the flavors.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Dutch Lettuce contains roughly 84 calories, with 4g protein, 0g carbohydrates, and 7g fat. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1960mg per serving (85% 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 use a different type of lettuce?
Yes, you can use other types of lettuce such as romaine or butter lettuce. Just ensure they're fresh and crisp, as they will hold up better to the warm dressing.
How can I make this recipe vegetarian?
To make Dutch Lettuce vegetarian, you can omit the bacon and replace the drippings with olive oil. For added flavor, consider using smoked paprika or liquid smoke to mimic the smoky taste of bacon.
Is it possible to prepare the dressing in advance?
Absolutely! You can prepare the dressing a day ahead and store it in the refrigerator. Just reheat it gently before drizzling over the lettuce to ensure it's warm when served.
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).