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Wilted Lettuce Salad

Wilted Lettuce Salad

Wilted lettuce salad is an old-fashioned, comforting dish made with crispy bacon, green onions, and a sweet-tangy warm dressing. It’s the perfect way to use up lettuce and create a cozy, craveable side for any meal.
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Prep Time 5 minutes
Cook Time 5 minutes
Total Time 10 minutes
Servings: 4
Course: Salad, Side Dish
Cuisine: American
Calories: 213
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 4 cups leaf lettuce (torn)
  • 4 slices bacon
  • 2 green onions
  • 3 tablespoons white vinegar
  • 2 teaspoons sugar
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Method
 

  1. Crisp bacon: Fry in skillet until crisp, drain on paper towels, crumble when cool.
  2. Sauté onions: Add green onions to hot bacon drippings, stir for about one minute until softened.
  3. Mix dressing: Whisk vinegar and sugar into drippings, stirring until dissolved and bubbly.
  4. Combine lettuce: Place torn lettuce in a large bowl, pour hot dressing right on top.
  5. Toss salad: Add crumbled bacon, salt, and pepper, and toss well using tongs to coat leaves.

Notes

  • Slightly wilted lettuce soaks up flavors much better than crisp new leaves for this.
  • Bacon fat carries most flavors, but don’t skimp on vinegar or sugar for balance.
  • Add bacon right before serving for the best crunch and taste every single time.
  • If making ahead, keep dressing and lettuce separate until ready to eat.
  • Season salad right before serving—salt wilts greens over time.