Mildred'S Salad
Mildred's Salad combines crisp lettuces, Swiss cheese, green peas, bacon, and red onion in a creamy dressing, perfect for light, flavorful gatherings or family meals.
Ingredients
Instructions
- In a large bowl, toss together torn lettuce and romaine.
- Top with Swiss cheese strips, cooked green peas, half of the crumbled bacon, and all the sliced red onion.
- In a separate bowl, stir together mayonnaise or salad dressing, sugar, and salt.
- Spoon the dressing mixture over the onion layer.
- Do not toss the salad at this stage.
- Cover and chill for 1 to 2 hours.
- Before serving, sprinkle with the remaining bacon and toss gently to combine.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier dressing, consider adding a bit of sour cream or Greek yogurt to the mayonnaise. If you're looking for lower-fat options, use a light mayonnaise or a yogurt-based dressing. You can substitute the Swiss cheese with cheddar for a sharper flavor, or use a dairy-free cheese for a vegan version. Adding fresh herbs like dill or parsley can also enhance the flavor.
Serving Suggestions
Mildred's Salad pairs beautifully with grilled chicken or pork recipes for a hearty meal. It also makes a great side dish alongside main courses such as Company Sausage Casserole or Hot Pot. For a complete spread, consider serving it with crusty bread or a light soup to balance the richness of the salad.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. The salad is best enjoyed fresh, but if you need to reheat the peas, steam them briefly before serving. Avoid reheating the entire salad, as the lettuce will wilt and the dressing may separate.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Mildred'S Salad contains roughly 350 calories, with 14g protein, 2g carbohydrates, and 32g fat. It is an excellent source of calcium (31% of the Daily Value) and protein (29% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin A. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1154mg per serving (50% 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 salad ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the salad up to the point of adding the dressing. Store the layers separately in the fridge and combine them just before serving to keep the lettuce crisp. This way, you can enjoy the freshness while saving time on busy days.
What can I substitute for bacon?
If you're looking for a vegetarian option, try using crispy fried chickpeas or sunflower seeds for crunch. If you want a smoky flavor without meat, smoked paprika can be added to the dressing for a similar taste. For a vegan alternative, consider coconut bacon.
How can I make the salad more filling?
To make Mildred's Salad more filling, incorporate additional protein such as grilled chicken, turkey, or even chickpeas. You can also add quinoa or farro to the mix for a heartier dish. These additions work well with the salad's flavors and will keep you satisfied.
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).