Simply Salad
A crunchy, flavorful salad featuring toasted almonds, sesame seeds, crisp bacon, noodles, and fresh greens, dressed in a sweet and tangy vinaigrette—perfect for casual gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Mix salad greens in a large bowl.
- Toast almonds and sesame seed together until golden brown, then add to the salad along with crumbled bacon and noodles.
- In a separate small bowl, whisk together oil, sugar, and wine vinegar to make the dressing.
- Pour the dressing over the salad and toss well to combine.
Tips & Substitutions
To enhance the flavor, consider adding some chopped green onions or diced bell peppers for extra crunch. If you prefer a vegetarian version, swap the bacon for crispy roasted chickpeas. You can also substitute the chow mein noodles with crispy wonton strips for a different texture. Toasting the almonds and sesame seeds not only brings out their nutty flavor but also adds a delightful crunch to your salad.
Serving Suggestions
This Simply Salad makes a great side dish for grilled meats or as a light lunch. It pairs beautifully with Littie'S Bacon Broccoli for a hearty meal. For a more substantial option, consider serving it alongside Pork Chop-Tomato Casserole. Garnish with additional toasted almonds or sesame seeds for added texture and visual appeal.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. The salad greens may wilt, so it's best to keep the dressing separate until ready to eat. To refresh the salad, you can add a splash of vinegar or oil before serving to revive the flavors and texture.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Simply Salad contains roughly 468 calories, with 12g protein, 22g carbohydrates, and 40g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (23% of the Daily Value), dietary fiber (20% of the Daily Value), and vitamin C (20% of the Daily Value), and a good source of iron. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 705mg per serving (31% 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 this salad in advance?
Yes, you can prepare the salad ingredients in advance but keep the dressing separate until serving to prevent sogginess. You can store the mixed greens, nuts, and bacon in the fridge for a day, allowing for quick assembly when ready to serve.
What can I substitute for bacon?
If you're looking for a bacon alternative, consider using turkey bacon for a lighter option. Alternatively, crispy tofu or tempeh can offer a savory flavor while keeping the dish vegetarian. Smoked paprika can also add a similar smoky flavor.
How can I make the dressing healthier?
To create a healthier dressing, reduce the amount of oil and increase the vinegar for a tangier flavor. You can also replace regular sugar with honey or a sugar substitute. Experimenting with citrus juice, like lemon or lime, can add brightness without extra calories.
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).