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The Family Favorite Salad

The Family Favorite Salad with Zesty Lemon Vinaigrette

This Family Favorite Salad is a versatile dish featuring zesty lemon vinaigrette, crisp romaine, bacon, and rich cheeses, perfect for gatherings.
Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 25 minutes
Chilling Time 10 minutes
Total Time 55 minutes
Servings: 6 servings
Course: Appetizer
Cuisine: American
Calories: 300

Ingredients
  

For the Salad
  • 2 heads Romaine Lettuce Can swap for kale or cabbage
  • 10 oz Bacon Can substitute with turkey bacon or omit for vegetarian options
  • 1 pint Grape Tomatoes Halved for easy eating; can replace with cherry tomatoes
  • 1 cup Swiss Cheese Substitute with feta for a Mediterranean twist
  • ½ cup Parmesan Cheese Can be replaced with pecorino
  • cups Croutons Opt for store-bought or homemade, or replace with nuts for gluten-free
  • ½ cup Toasted Almonds Brings a nutty crunch; can be omitted or replaced with seeds for nut-free options
For the Dressing
  • ¾ cup Light Olive Oil Can substitute with avocado oil
  • cup Fresh Lemon Juice Lime juice can be an alternative
  • 2 cloves Garlic Can use garlic powder as a quick substitute
  • 1 tsp Dijon Mustard Use mayo for an alternative
  • tsp Honey Agave can be used as a replacement
  • ¾ tsp Salt Adjust to taste
  • Black Pepper Adjust to taste

Equipment

  • oven
  • Jar
  • Baking Sheet
  • Salad Bowl
  • knife
  • Cutting board

Method
 

Step-by-Step Instructions
  1. Prepare the Dressing: In a sturdy jar, combine ¾ cup of light olive oil, ⅓ cup of fresh lemon juice, 2 minced garlic cloves, 1 teaspoon of Dijon mustard, and 1½ teaspoons of honey. Season with ¾ teaspoon of salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste. Seal the jar tightly and shake vigorously until the ingredients are well-blended. Chill the dressing in the refrigerator while you prepare the salad.
  2. Toast the Almonds: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Spread ½ cup of sliced almonds in a single layer on a baking sheet. Bake for 6-10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the almonds are golden brown and fragrant. Allow the almonds to cool.
  3. Cook the Bacon: Raise the oven temperature to 400°F (200°C). Line another baking sheet with aluminum foil. Arrange 10 ounces of bacon strips in a single layer on the sheet. Bake for 13-18 minutes, or until crispy. Transfer to a paper towel-lined plate.
  4. Assemble the Salad: Rinse and dry the romaine lettuce. Chop or tear into bite-sized pieces and place in a large bowl. Add toasted almonds, chopped bacon, and halved grape tomatoes. Sprinkle in Swiss cheese and Parmesan cheese. Gently combine all ingredients.
  5. Dress the Salad: Shake the dressing again and drizzle it over the salad. Toss gently to coat. Add croutons just before serving and toss lightly to incorporate.

Nutrition

Serving: 1servingCalories: 300kcalCarbohydrates: 15gProtein: 10gFat: 20gSaturated Fat: 5gPolyunsaturated Fat: 3gMonounsaturated Fat: 10gCholesterol: 25mgSodium: 600mgPotassium: 300mgFiber: 3gSugar: 2gVitamin A: 40IUVitamin C: 25mgCalcium: 15mgIron: 10mg

Notes

This Family Favorite Salad is perfect for any gathering, adaptable to various dietary needs, and offers a vibrant mix of flavors and textures.

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