Old-Fashioned Wilted Lettuce
A nostalgic, flavorful salad featuring crispy bacon, tender lettuce, and a rich egg-vinegar dressing, perfect for brunch or casual gatherings with bold, savory notes.
Ingredients
Instructions
- In a small bowl, beat eggs, milk, vinegar, salt, and pepper until smooth; set aside.
- In a skillet, cook bacon until crisp. Remove bacon to paper towels to drain, reserving drippings; reduce heat under skillet to medium.
- Whisk egg mixture into drippings; cook and stir until thickened, about 3 to 4 minutes.
- Place lettuce, onion, and bacon in a large salad bowl.
- Pour dressing over and toss well.
- Serve immediately.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier dressing, consider adding a tablespoon of mayonnaise or sour cream to the egg mixture. If you prefer a lighter version, substitute turkey bacon for the pork variety. Fresh herbs like chives or parsley can enhance the flavor profile. Ensure the bacon is crispy to give the salad a nice texture balance.
Serving Suggestions
This wilted lettuce salad pairs beautifully with grilled meats or a hearty soup, such as a classic tomato bisque. It can also be served alongside a Bacon And Egg Salad for a more substantial meal. Garnish with fresh herbs for added flair and flavor.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. The dressing may separate, so give it a good stir before serving. Reheat the dressing gently on the stove to bring back its creamy consistency, but avoid overheating to prevent curdling.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Old-Fashioned Wilted Lettuce contains roughly 474 calories, with 9g protein, 76g carbohydrates, and 14g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (35% of the Daily Value), calcium (32% of the Daily Value), and vitamin C (27% of the Daily Value), and a good source of protein. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1302mg per serving (57% 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 recipe vegetarian?
Yes, you can easily adapt this recipe by omitting the bacon and using olive oil or butter to cook the dressing. You may also add nuts or seeds for added crunch and flavor. Consider incorporating ingredients like smoked paprika to mimic the smoky flavor of bacon.
What type of lettuce works best for this recipe?
Iceberg lettuce is traditional for this recipe due to its crisp texture, but you can also use leaf lettuce or romaine for a different flavor profile. Just ensure the lettuce is fresh and washed thoroughly before wilting to maintain its crunch.
How can I make the dressing thicker?
To thicken the dressing, continue to cook it on medium heat while whisking until it reaches your desired consistency. You could also add a bit more sugar or even a cornstarch slurry for additional thickness. Just be sure to adjust the seasoning afterward.
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).