Bacon Salad

Bacon Salad is a bold and satisfying dish that combines crisp greens with smoky, savory bacon for a flavor-packed bite in every forkful. Whether you’re looking for a hearty side dish or a main-course salad, this recipe delivers a perfect balance of textures and tastes—crunchy, creamy, salty, and fresh. It’s the kind of salad that converts even the most devoted salad skeptics.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This salad isn’t your average bowl of greens. The bacon adds rich, meaty flavor while a tangy dressing pulls it all together. It’s versatile, easy to make, and endlessly customizable. Great for lunch, dinner, or as a crowd-pleasing side, this salad hits the sweet spot between indulgent and fresh. Plus, it’s ready in minutes, making it perfect for busy days.

ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• Thick-cut bacon, cooked until crispy and crumbled
• Romaine or mixed salad greens
• Cherry tomatoes, halved
• Red onion, thinly sliced
• Hard-boiled eggs, sliced or chopped
• Croutons
• Avocado, diced (optional)
• Shredded cheddar or blue cheese (optional)

For the dressing:

• Olive oil
• Apple cider vinegar or red wine vinegar
• Dijon mustard
• Honey or maple syrup
• Garlic, minced
• Salt and black pepper

directions

1. Cook the bacon in a skillet over medium heat until crisp. Drain on paper towels, then crumble.
2. In a small bowl or jar, whisk together olive oil, vinegar, mustard, honey, garlic, salt, and pepper to make the dressing.
3. In a large bowl, combine the greens, cherry tomatoes, red onion, croutons, hard-boiled eggs, and avocado if using.
4. Drizzle the dressing over the salad and toss to combine.
5. Top with crumbled bacon and cheese (if using), and serve immediately.

Servings and timing

This recipe serves 4 as a main or 6 as a side.
Prep time: 15 minutes
Cook time: 10 minutes
Total time: 25 minutes

Variations

• Warm Bacon Dressing: Use some bacon fat in place of olive oil for a warm, Southern-style dressing.
• Low-Carb Option: Skip the croutons and add extra avocado or nuts.
• Add Protein: Top with grilled chicken or steak to turn this into a full meal.
• Greens Swap: Use spinach, arugula, or kale instead of romaine.
• Sweet Twist: Add sliced apples, dried cranberries, or pears for a touch of sweetness.

storage/reheating

Store salad components separately in the refrigerator if not serving immediately.

Bacon: Store cooked bacon in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. Reheat in a skillet or microwave.

Dressing: Store in a sealed jar in the fridge for up to 1 week. Shake well before using.

Note: Assembled salad with dressing doesn’t store well—serve fresh for the best texture.

FAQs

What’s the best bacon to use for salad?

Thick-cut bacon is ideal for its hearty texture, but any style will work.

Can I make this salad ahead of time?

Yes—prep all components in advance, but store them separately and assemble just before serving.

Is this salad keto-friendly?

It can be. Skip the croutons and honey, and opt for low-carb veggies and a sugar-free dressing.

Can I use store-bought dressing?

Absolutely, but homemade dressing gives the freshest flavor and control over ingredients.

Can I make this salad vegetarian?

Sure. Use a bacon alternative or omit it entirely and add roasted chickpeas or tempeh.

How do I keep the bacon crispy?

Add bacon to the salad just before serving so it stays crisp.

What cheese works best in bacon salad?

Sharp cheddar, blue cheese, or feta all pair well with bacon’s saltiness.

What kind of vinegar is best for the dressing?

Apple cider vinegar adds a mellow tang, while red wine vinegar gives a bolder flavor.

Can I use turkey bacon?

Yes, turkey bacon is a leaner alternative and works great in this recipe.

What can I serve this with?

It’s great alongside grilled meats, sandwiches, or even a bowl of soup.

Conclusion

Bacon Salad is a flavor-loaded dish that proves salads can be crave-worthy. With crispy bacon, fresh veggies, creamy dressing, and endless customization options, it’s a go-to recipe for any occasion. Whether served as a main course or hearty side, this salad brings satisfaction and big taste in every bite.

Print