Wilted Spinach Lettuce Salad
A vibrant wilted spinach and lettuce salad with crispy bacon, tangy cider vinegar dressing, and fresh green onions, perfect for a light, flavorful meal or side dish.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cut bacon slices into eighths and fry until crisp.
- Drain on paper towels and reserve 2 tablespoons of bacon drippings.
- Wash lettuce and tear into bite-sized pieces.
- Remove stems from spinach and combine with lettuce in a salad bowl.
- Add sliced green onions to the salad.
- Cover and refrigerate the salad until just before serving.
- Add sugar, salt, pepper, vinegar, and water to the reserved bacon drippings to make the dressing.
- Set the dressing aside until ready to serve.
- Bring the dressing mixture to a boil.
- Stir the dressing and pour over the lettuce-spinach mixture.
- Toss the salad to combine.
- Top with crispy bacon bits.
- Sprinkle with croutons or other toppings if desired.
- Serve immediately.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider using thick-cut bacon, which adds a delightful smokiness. If you’re short on time, pre-washed packaged spinach can save you some prep work. Feel free to substitute the butter lettuce with arugula or mixed greens for a peppery twist. Adjust the vinegar to your taste; adding a splash of lemon juice can brighten the dressing even more.
Serving Suggestions
This salad is best served immediately after tossing with the warm dressing to maintain the crispness of the greens. Pair it with grilled chicken or fish for a complete meal. It also complements hearty dishes like B~B~Q Baked Beans or Marvelous Mashed Potatoes(Microwave) for a satisfying spread.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Keep the dressing separate until serving to prevent the greens from wilting. If reheating, gently warm the dressing on the stove before tossing it with fresh greens to revive the flavors without cooking the salad.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Wilted Spinach Lettuce Salad contains roughly 267 calories, with 7g protein, 13g carbohydrates, and 22g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (73% of the Daily Value), and a good source of dietary fiber and protein. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1975mg per serving (86% 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 the salad ahead of time?
While it's best enjoyed fresh, you can prepare the salad components ahead of time. Wash and tear the lettuce and spinach, then store them in the refrigerator. Prepare the dressing and keep it separate until just before serving to ensure the greens stay crisp.
What can I use instead of bacon?
For a vegetarian version, substitute the bacon with sautéed mushrooms or smoked tempeh for a similar umami flavor. You can also use sunflower seeds or toasted walnuts to add a crunchy texture without meat.
How can I add more flavor to the dressing?
Consider adding minced garlic or a teaspoon of Dijon mustard to the dressing for extra depth. Fresh herbs like parsley or chives can also enhance the flavor profile, making the dressing more vibrant and aromatic.
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).