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Savory Dandelion Green Salad with Smoky Bacon Dressing

savory dandelion green salad - featured image
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A fresh and comforting salad featuring peppery dandelion greens tossed in a rich, smoky bacon dressing. Perfect for spring gatherings and quick meals.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 4 cups dandelion greens, washed and chopped
  • 4 slices thick-cut bacon (Applewood smoked preferred)
  • 1 small red onion, thinly sliced
  • 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
  • 1 teaspoon maple syrup
  • 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
  • 3 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
  • Salt and black pepper to taste
  • 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved (optional)
  • ½ cup toasted pecans or walnuts (optional)

Instructions

  1. Rinse 4 cups of dandelion greens thoroughly to remove any dirt or grit. Pat dry using a clean kitchen towel or salad spinner. Chop roughly into bite-sized pieces.
  2. Place 4 slices of thick-cut bacon in a cold skillet. Turn heat to medium-low and cook slowly for 8-10 minutes, turning occasionally until crisp and golden. Remove bacon and drain on paper towels. Reserve bacon fat in skillet.
  3. To the warm bacon fat in the skillet, add 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar, 1 teaspoon maple syrup, and 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard. Whisk vigorously while warm to emulsify. Slowly drizzle in 3 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil while whisking until smooth and slightly thickened. Season with salt and black pepper to taste.
  4. Thinly slice 1 small red onion and halve 1 cup cherry tomatoes. Set aside.
  5. In a large bowl, combine chopped dandelion greens, sliced onion, and tomatoes. Crumble cooked bacon over the top.
  6. Pour warm smoky bacon dressing over salad and toss gently but thoroughly to coat all ingredients. If desired, sprinkle with ½ cup toasted pecans or walnuts. Serve immediately.

Notes

Start bacon in a cold pan to slowly render fat and avoid burning. Whisk olive oil in gradually to create a silky dressing. Wash and dry greens thoroughly to avoid sogginess. Toss salad just before serving to maintain crispness. Dressing can be made ahead and warmed gently before use.

Nutrition

Keywords: dandelion greens, bacon dressing, smoky salad, spring salad, easy salad recipe, healthy greens, savory salad

Find it online: https://avabowls.com/savory-dandelion-green-salad-with-smoky-bacon-dressing-easy-recipe-for-spring/