Grandma Grant'S Salad Dressing
Grandma Grant's Salad Dressing features smoky bacon, creamy richness, and tangy vinegar, perfect for elevating garden salads with hearty, savory flavors loved by family and friends.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cut bacon into tiny pieces and fry until crispy in a saucepan; set aside half of the fried bacon for garnish.
- Beat the eggs in a bowl; add salt, sugar, vinegar, and water, then mix well.
- Add the egg mixture to the saucepan with the bacon and bacon fat.
- Heat the mixture slowly over low heat, beating constantly until it thickens.
- Remove from heat and stir in the cream.
- Pour the dressing over a head of lettuce or garden lettuce.
- Garnish with additional bacon and hard-boiled eggs before serving.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider using thick-cut bacon. If you're short on time, you can substitute the cream with a mixture of Greek yogurt and milk for a lighter version. Ensure to whisk the egg mixture continuously to prevent scrambling. This dressing works well on salads with hearty greens like romaine or spinach, making it a versatile choice for various salads, including a delicious Cold Pea Salad.
Serving Suggestions
This salad dressing is best served over a fresh head of lettuce or mixed greens. For a complete meal, pair it with grilled chicken or roasted vegetables. It also complements hearty dishes like Baked Ham With Apples, making it a great addition to any potluck or family gathering. Garnish with additional bacon and hard-boiled eggs for an extra touch.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover dressing in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week. It may thicken upon chilling, so gently reheat it on low heat, stirring constantly until it reaches your desired consistency. Avoid reheating in the microwave, as it can curdle the eggs and cream.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Grandma Grant'S Salad Dressing contains roughly 221 calories, with 7g protein, 23g carbohydrates, and 11g fat. It is a good source of protein (14% of the Daily Value) and vitamin C (10% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 2032mg per serving (88% 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 this dressing ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the dressing a day in advance. Just remember to store it in the refrigerator and give it a good stir before serving. If it thickens too much, you can gently heat it on low to loosen it up.
What type of vinegar works best in this recipe?
While white vinegar is commonly used, apple cider vinegar can add a pleasant sweetness and depth to the dressing. Feel free to experiment with different types of vinegar based on your taste preferences.
Can I use a different type of fat instead of bacon?
Yes, if you prefer a vegetarian option, try using olive oil or butter for a different flavor profile. However, keep in mind that the distinctive taste of bacon may be lost. You could also use smoked paprika for a hint of smokiness.
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).