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Crisp Dandelion Salad Recipe with Easy Smoky Bacon Dressing

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A fresh and vibrant salad featuring crisp dandelion greens tossed in a rich, smoky bacon dressing. Perfect for spring, this quick and easy recipe balances bitter greens with savory, smoky flavors.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 6 cups dandelion greens, washed and roughly chopped
  • 6 slices thick-cut bacon
  • 1 small shallot, finely minced
  • 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
  • 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
  • 1 teaspoon maple syrup (optional)
  • 3 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
  • Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
  • Sea salt, to taste

Instructions

  1. Place 6 thick-cut bacon slices in a cold skillet over medium heat. Let the fat render slowly, flipping occasionally, for about 8–10 minutes until crispy but not burnt. Remove bacon and place on paper towels to drain. Reserve the bacon fat in the pan.
  2. While the bacon cools, finely mince 1 small shallot. In a small bowl, whisk together the minced shallot, 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar, 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard, and 1 teaspoon maple syrup until smooth.
  3. Slowly drizzle in 3 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil while whisking constantly to emulsify. Add 2 tablespoons of the warm bacon fat (not hot!) to the dressing and whisk again. Season dressing with freshly ground black pepper and a pinch of sea salt. Taste and adjust acidity or sweetness as preferred.
  4. Rinse about 6 cups of dandelion greens thoroughly under cold water to remove grit. Spin or pat dry. Roughly chop the tougher stems off if desired.
  5. Once cooled, crumble the crispy bacon into bite-sized pieces.
  6. Place the dandelion greens in a large salad bowl. Pour the smoky bacon dressing over the greens and toss gently but thoroughly to coat every leaf.
  7. Add the crumbled bacon on top and give one final gentle toss.
  8. Serve immediately while the bacon is still slightly warm and the greens crisp.

Notes

Start cooking bacon in a cold skillet to render maximum fat. Add bacon fat to dressing while warm but not hot. Dry greens thoroughly to avoid soggy salad. Adjust dressing seasoning to taste. For extra crunch, sprinkle toasted sunflower seeds or walnuts before serving. Dressing can be made a day ahead and stored in the fridge.

Nutrition

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

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