Mabel's Bacon Dressing For Wilted Lettuce

Be careful not to overcook the egg mixture, as it can become scrambled eggs instead of a smooth dressing.

For extra flavor, add a splash of Dijon mustard or a pinch of smoked paprika to the dressing.

For a smokier flavor, use smoked bacon or add a dash of liquid smoke to the dressing.

Try adding chopped nuts or crispy fried shallots on top of the dressed greens for added crunch and flavor.

Try different types of vinegar, such as balsamic or red wine vinegar, for a different twist.

Can I make the salad ahead of time?

Unfortunately, this is one of those recipes that is best made and served at the same time. The greens will become soggy (instead of just wilted) if left in the dressing too long.

What type of lettuce should I use?

Any of the more tender lettuce varieties like Bibb, Boston, or Butter lettuce. Lettuce like iceberg won't wilt as easily. Spinach is also a great choice.

Why is the egg used in the dressing?

The egg helps to thicken the dressing and give it a rich, creamy texture.

Can I use a sugar substitute in place of sugar?

You can use a sugar substitute like Splenda, or honey or maple syrup for a different flavor.

How should leftovers of this dressing be stored?

Leftover dressing can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Reheat gently before using again.

What other dishes can this hot bacon dressing be used on?

This dressing is not only perfect for wilting lettuce but can also be drizzled over roasted vegetables, grilled chicken, or even used as a dipping sauce for bread.

Whisk: For combining the egg, sugar, vinegar, and water in a saucepan to create the hot bacon dressing.

Saucepan: Needed to cook the egg, sugar, vinegar, and water mixture over medium heat until it thickens and coats the back of a spoon.

Heat-Proof Serving Bowl: To hold the lettuce or salad greens when pouring the hot bacon dressing over them.

Stove: Required to heat the saucepan and cook the dressing ingredients.

Frying Pan: To fry the bacon until crisp before crumbling it into the hot bacon dressing.

Spatula: Useful for stirring the dressing ingredients in the saucepan to make sure they are evenly combined.

Salad Tongs or Fork: For tossing the lettuce in the hot bacon dressing after it has been poured over the greens.

Caesar Salad: The richness of the hot bacon dressing will add a new depth of flavor to the classic Caesar salad.

Grilled Chicken: Pairing the hot bacon dressing with grilled chicken brings a nice contrast of flavors and textures. The smoky char of the chicken plays off the savory bacon dressing.

Baked Potato: Drizzle the hot bacon dressing over a fluffy baked potato for a comforting and indulgent side dish.

Grilled Shrimp Skewers: The hot bacon dressing adds a smoky, salty kick to the light and fresh grilled shrimp, creating a perfect balance of flavors.

Steamed Asparagus: Dress up simple steamed asparagus by drizzling the hot bacon dressing over the top. The richness of the dressing complements the fresh, earthy flavor of the asparagus.

Wine Pairings
Riesling: This wine is like that friend who can hang out with anyone. Its crisp acidity and juicy sweetness will go beautifully with the tanginess of the vinegar and the richness of the bacon. Look for a slightly off-dry Riesling; it's like the Goldilocks of wines for this dish - not too sweet, not too dry.

Chardonnay: You want it slightly oaky and buttery, which will go nicely with the bacon's smokiness and the dressing's richness.

Pinot Noir: A light to medium-bodied Pinot has a fruity vibe that's not overwhelming, with a subtle earthiness that will complement the bacon's smokiness without overpowering the salad. It's like the perfect wingman for this dish.

Other Alcohol Pairings
Apple Cider: Hard or soft, apple cider loves bacon like peanut butter loves jelly. The crisp apple notes and the natural sweetness can cut through the dressing's richness while echoing the vinegar's tang. If you go the hard route, aim for something semi-dry.

Amber Ale: An Amber Ale's caramel and malt flavors will complement the bacon's richness and the dressing's sweetness, while its subtle bitterness says, "Hey, I can be refreshing, too!"

Bloody Mary: Okay, hear me out. A Bloody Mary with this salad is like turning brunch up to eleven. The tomato's acidity, the vodka's clean bite, and the customizable spiciness are basically begging to hang out with Mabel's bacon dressing.

Non-Alcoholic Pairings
Sparkling Apple Juice: Who says you need booze to have fun? Sparkling apple juice brings the party with its fizzy sweetness and apple tang, for a perfect contrast to the dressing's richness.

Lemon Iced Tea: Refreshing, with a hint of citrus tang and sweetness, lemon iced tea knows how to balance the hearty, rich flavors of bacon and the vinegar's zing.

Tomato Juice: If you're into the idea of a virgin Bloody Mary, tomato juice has got your back. With its rich umami and mild sweetness, it's ready to join forces with the bacon dressing and create a flavor blast.