Roasted Vidalia Onion, Cherry Tomato And Bacon Salad
A vibrant, smoky salad combining roasted sweet Vidalia onions, juicy cherry tomatoes, crispy bacon, and fresh herbs, perfect for summer gatherings or casual weeknight dinners.
Ingredients
- 4 Vidalia onions (about 2 lb.), peeled ⓘ
- 2 c. cherry tomatoes, quartered ⓘ
- 6 slices lean bacon, cooked until crisp and crumbled
- 1/3 c. minced fresh basil or parsley leaves ⓘ
- 1 large garlic clove, minced and mashed to a paste with 1/4 tsp. salt
- 1 Tbsp. balsamic vinegar ⓘ
- 1 Tbsp. red wine vinegar ⓘ
- 1/4 c. olive oil ⓘ
Instructions
- Season the onions with salt and pepper.
- Wrap each onion individually in foil.
- Bake in a preheated 350°F oven for 45 minutes to 1 hour or until tender.
- Let the onions cool in the foil, then discard the foil.
- Chop the onions coarsely, discarding the root ends.
- In a bowl, toss the chopped onions with cherry tomatoes, crumbled bacon, and minced herbs.
Tips & Substitutions
To enhance flavor, consider adding a sprinkle of smoked paprika or using a flavored olive oil. If Vidalia onions are unavailable, sweet onions like Walla Walla or Maui can be good substitutes. Ensure the bacon is crispy for the best texture in the salad. For a vegetarian version, you can skip the bacon or replace it with a plant-based alternative.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this salad as a light lunch or as a side dish alongside grilled meats. It pairs beautifully with Pork Loin Roast With Apple Glaze for a complete meal. For added texture, consider serving it with crusty bread or over a bed of mixed greens. A drizzle of extra balsamic vinegar just before serving can elevate the dish.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, gently warm in a skillet over low heat, or microwave in short bursts, stirring occasionally. This salad can also be enjoyed cold, making it a great option for meal prep.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Roasted Vidalia Onion, Cherry Tomato And Bacon Salad contains roughly 209 calories, with 4g protein, 7g carbohydrates, and 17g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (24% 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 prepare the onions in advance?
Yes, you can roast the onions a day ahead. Once cooled, store them in the refrigerator. Just toss with the other ingredients right before serving to maintain freshness and flavor.
What can I use instead of cherry tomatoes?
If cherry tomatoes are not available, you can substitute with diced regular tomatoes or even roasted red peppers for a different flavor profile. Just ensure they are well-drained if using canned options.
How can I make this salad vegan?
To make this salad vegan, omit the bacon and consider adding roasted chickpeas or avocado for added protein and creaminess. You can also use a vegan-friendly balsamic dressing for a flavorful finish.
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).