Mom'S Salad
A colorful and crunchy salad combining fresh vegetables, fruits, nuts, and bacon, dressed in a sweet and tangy mayonnaise-based dressing, perfect for family gatherings or potlucks.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Mix together the cauliflower, broccoli, apples, raisins, chopped pecans, broken bacon, and diced onion in a large bowl.
- In a separate small bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, sugar, and cider vinegar until well combined.
- Pour the dressing over the salad ingredients and toss to coat evenly.
- Optionally, sprinkle sunflower seeds on top before serving.
Tips & Substitutions
For a lighter version, consider substituting Greek yogurt for half of the mayonnaise. You can also swap in different nuts, like walnuts or almonds, if pecans aren't available. To add a hint of spice, a dash of cayenne pepper can elevate the flavor profile. Be sure to chop the apples just before mixing to prevent browning.
Serving Suggestions
This salad is a fantastic side dish for summer barbecues or potlucks, pairing beautifully with Grinder Sandwiches or grilled meats. For a complete meal, serve it alongside a protein like grilled chicken or fish. Adding a fresh fruit platter can enhance the overall dining experience.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The salad may soften as it sits, so give it a good stir before serving. Avoid freezing, as it can alter the texture of the vegetables. Serve chilled for the best flavor.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Mom'S Salad contains roughly 2440 calories, with 32g protein, 91g carbohydrates, and 231g fat. It is an excellent source of dietary fiber (94% of the Daily Value), protein (65% of the Daily Value), and vitamin C (51% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 896mg per serving (39% 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 a day in advance. However, it's best to add the dressing just before serving to keep the ingredients crisp. Store the components separately in the refrigerator until you're ready to combine them.
What type of apples work best in this salad?
Crisp, tart apples like Granny Smith or Honeycrisp are ideal as they provide a nice contrast to the creamy dressing. You can also use sweeter varieties like Fuji if you prefer a milder flavor. Just remember to chop them just before adding to the salad to maintain freshness.
Is there a vegetarian option for this recipe?
Absolutely! You can omit the bacon and add smoked paprika or a bit of liquid smoke to impart a similar savory flavor. Additionally, consider incorporating chickpeas or diced tofu for added protein, making it a satisfying vegetarian dish.
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).